Kameya Yoshinaga, a Kyoto confectionery with over 220 years of history, is running its Kyoto Wagashi Hands-On Workshop during Golden Week. Participants make one type of nerikiri (refined sweet) and one type of kintō (sweet with a textured coating), with the freshly made kintō served alongside a bowl of matcha on-site. The nerikiri can be taken home as a gift or souvenir. A live demonstration of higashi (dry confectionery) by a craftsperson is also included so attendees can observe the wagashi-making process up close.
May 4 (Tue) & 5 (Wed) — Children's Day
Kintō "Hanashobu" (Iris Flower)
A refreshing kintō inspired by the iris, a flower traditionally associated with the Boys' Festival (Tango no Sekku). Participants coat a ball of coarse red bean paste with finely crumbled kintō paste, then add a floral decoration to finish.
Nerikiri "Koinobori" (Carp Streamer)
A charming nerikiri shaped like the iconic carp streamer. After shading and filling, participants use tools to add scale and stripe details before placing the eye as the final touch.
May 8 (Fri) & 9 (Sat) — Mother's Day
Kintō "Arigatō" (Thank You)
A vibrant red carnation — synonymous with Mother's Day. The dough is pressed through a fine sieve to create a gradient effect, then wrapped around coarse red bean paste to express lush, layered petals. A slender leaf is added for a finishing accent.
Nerikiri "Omoiyari" (Thoughtfulness)
An elegant rose design. Pink roses carry flower language meanings such as "gratitude," "grace," and "warm heart," making them a fitting Mother's Day gift. The process covers fundamental techniques including shading, filling, and using a spatula to add petal lines.
After making the fresh sweets, participants can watch a craftsperson demonstrate wasanbon (fine Japanese sugar confectionery) production right in front of them.
Craftspeople provide detailed guidance throughout the session, making the workshop accessible for first-time participants. Children are welcome to join, and solo visitors, families, and parent-child pairs are all encouraged to take part.
Kameya Yoshinaga Hands-On Workshop
Participants make one nerikiri and one kintō alongside a craftsperson's demonstration. The kintō is served with matcha to enjoy on the spot.
Details & Reservations: https://kameya-yoshinaga.com/f/tedzukuri
Available dates can be confirmed on the booking calendar.
General: ¥3,300 (tax included)
Students (up to high school): ¥2,750 (tax included)
Companion (observer): ¥770 (tax included)
*Matcha included
