ONLINE WAGASHI Demonstration

The day after returning from Kyoto, I had the honor of giving a lecture at the request of the Japan International Cooperation Center (JICE) for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs–supported SAARC online program, “JENESYS.”

SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) is a regional organization established in 1985 to promote economic, social, and cultural development and to strengthen solidarity among South Asian countries. Its eight member states are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

JENESYS is a people-to-people exchange program between Japan and countries across Asia and Oceania. It aims to foster future leaders with strong communication skills, deepen interest and understanding of Japan, strengthen international outreach, and expand Japan’s diplomatic foundation through cultural exchange.
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During the session, I gave a wagashi demonstration and a lecture on the relationship between wagashi, Japanese history, and traditional cultural events.

I demonstrated how to make spring-themed nerikiri.
Unlike my usual online lessons, the participants were only watching through the screen and not making the sweets together with me. I was initially unsure how engaged they would feel. However, the participants showed great interest—so much so that we extended the Q&A session. The feedback afterward was also very positive.
I believe it was a meaningful opportunity for them to deepen their understanding of wagashi and to learn about the beauty of Japanese culture.

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During the Q&A session, I was even asked about the proper way to eat nerikiri, which made me smile.
It was a valuable experience for me as well.
Thank you very much to everyone who participated!