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 The Charm of the Japanese Sweet, "Kashiwa-mochi"

Have you ever tried a Japanese sweet wrapped in a leaf from a convenience store or supermarket?

This traditional sweet is called "Kashiwa-mochi" (oak leaf mochi). Because it is made specifically for "Children's Day" in May, this time of year is its absolute peak. In fact, you might stop seeing them in supermarkets very soon!

There is a fascinating, traditional Japanese meaning behind why Kashiwa-mochi is the seasonal treat for May. The leaves of the Kashiwa (oak) tree have a unique characteristic: the old leaves do not fall off until the new buds have fully grown.

This natural cycle is likened to a human family. The old leaves represent the parents who watch over their children (the new buds) until they are fully grown. Because it symbolizes "family continuity" and "prosperity of descendants," eating Kashiwa-mochi for good luck has been a tradition since the Edo period. Perhaps some of you even had one during this year's Golden Week!

My son loves everything from Kashiwa-mochi to Western pastries, so I'm sure he would happily gobble it down.

If you happen to see Kashiwa-mochi nearby, why not give it a try while thinking of your own family?