Satoyama Rice Cake Making

Expert: residents of Koya and local expert Teruyuki Kuchu

Why rice cake making in Japan?

            There are a variety of traditions in Japan that are passed down through experiential knowledge, without which, the practices would likely fade away. Japan has quite a lot of practices and artforms in this realm, upheld by people who are working within a heritage space written into their muscles. Rice crackers and cakes like mochi originated in China, but in a country like Japan, filled with mountains, the techniques that have developed and evolved over the generations are unique even to certain regions. The differences of regional cuisine in Japan is a topographical map only experienceable with the tastebud with different areas’ specialties often linked to thousands of years of history, climate, and landscape.

Why rice cake making in Kyoto by the Sea?

            In the forests of Ayabe, there is a village that sits at the source of crystal-clear river. This is a village of chestnuts that are valued so highly that families are granted rights to a single chestnut tree for upwards of 1,000 years. And in this tiny village of Koya, of the three remaining residents two are sisters who have been together for over 90 years. And they are carrying on the tradition of making chestnut okaki rice cakes by hand. The people who have come and taken part in this experience help breathe life into this culinary art, one that is distinct to this region. A single chestnut rice cake represents an artform, a village, and a story all in one round crispy snack. Participants have a chance to learn this culinary art, make a batch by hand with two women in their 90th decade, and bring some home: expressing with food what words and pictures can’t capture.

About our expert

            Teruyuki Kuchu is a licensed English guide who lives in Ayabe and runs a guesthouse with his family. He plays a vital role in both revitalizing and preserving the satoyama culture in the forests of Ayabe. He acts as the liaison for visitors who want to visit Kyoto Prefecture’s smallest village and spend time with the incredible women still living there.  

Where is this experience?

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