(File photo)
Eating mochi (rice cake) is a New Year’s tradition in Japan. Its preparation through mochitsuki, or mochi pounding often takes place by the end of the year, but some do it to celebrate a New Year.
Normally, steamed glutinous rice is pounded by a team of two who take turns either striking the mochi in a wooden mortar with a wooden mallet or flipping it at a rhythmic pace. Seasoned veterans can do it at an incredible speed.
Pounding rice cakes may seem easy, but it requires some skill. In fact, during the Edo Period (1603 - 1867), there used to be even professionals specialized in “hikizurimochi,”an on-site service of mochi pounding.
As the season approaches, there’ll be opportunities to try it out in the local area. In Ginowan City, the Ginowan City International Friendship Exchange Association (GIFEA) will host its own mochi pounding event on Jan. 24 from 2-3:30 p.m. You can reserve your spot via GIFEA and register starting at 1:30 p.m. on the day at the venue, the Isa Kominkan Community Center.
The tradition is a great way to get the year started right! Don’t miss it!
Mochi Tsuki Taikenkai (Mochi pounding event) flyer (Photo courtesy of GIFEA)
Mochi Tsuki Taikenkai (Mochi pounding experience)
Date: Jan. 24 (Sat)
Time: 2 – 3:30 p.m. (Sign-in begins at 1:30 p.m.)
Location: Isa Kominkan (Community Center, 26.289744, 127.753652) near MCAS Futenma and Camp Foster. Parking space available.
Registration fee: 500 yen (approx. $3.24)
*Reservation required.
*For more info, contact GIFEA at (gifea.office@gmai.com)
