The Art of Wagashi – Nerikiri Workshop

Discover the art of Nerikiri, a traditional Japanese confection that celebrates the beauty of the seasons.

Nerikiri is an elegant form of wagashi (Japanese confectionery), crafted from sweet white bean paste and mochi, shaped into seasonal designs. Often served during tea gatherings, Nerikiri is admired not only for its flavor but also for its artistic expression. Because it is rarely available in the United States, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to experience this Japanese culinary art form firsthand.

Join us for a beginner-friendly summer workshop at the Heritage Museum of Asian Art, where you will create four Nerikiri inspired by beloved symbols of the Japanese summer—two fireworks and two Japanese fans.

Throughout Japan, fireworks festivals illuminate summer evenings, while decorative fans have long been associated with the season. Through the process of shaping and coloring Nerikiri, participants will explore how Japanese confectioners express seasonal beauty through design.

The workshop will be held on Friday, July 10, at Heritage Museum of Asian Art (3500 S. Morgan, 3F), with Toshiko Sugii Steffes

Participants will create four Nerikiri pieces and learn traditional techniques for shaping and coloring this seasonal confection. Finished Nerikiri will be packaged in a special take-home container for you to enjoy later.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Instruction on how to make Nerikiri (4 pieces)
• All materials, tools, and take-home container
• Designs: 2 Fireworks, 2 Japanese Fans

Ingredients: White bean paste, sweet rice flour, water, sugar, red bean paste, and food coloring. Optional decorations include gold leaf and black sesame seeds. Black sesame is not required and may be omitted.