National Mochi Day

The story

National Mochi Day was introduced in 2021 by Hawaiian mochi business Mochi Mochi Wagashi to celebrate this beloved Japanese treat.

Mochi dates back to Japan’s Jomon period (14,000 B.C.–300 B.C.), when rice cultivation began. By the Kofun period (6th century), homemade mochi became more common, thanks to the availability of steamers in households.

During the Heian period (794–1185), mochi became a ceremonial food, symbolizing luck in events like weddings, childbirth, and New Year’s celebrations. Different varieties carry distinct meanings, zoni soup, containing mochi and vegetables, is a New Year staple, while kagami mochi is eaten in the kagami biraki ritual.

Mochi comes in various forms, shaped by regional traditions. Popular types include marumochi (round), kakumochi (square), and sakuramochi (pink, wrapped in cherry blossom leaves). Some mochi are tied to specific events, kashiwamochi (wrapped in oak leaves) is eaten on Children’s Day (May 5), while kakumochi is a winter household favorite.

Modern mochi fillings range from red bean and matcha to black sesame and taro. Mochi ice cream, with its soft, chewy skin and creamy center, has become a global favorite, blending tradition with contemporary flavors.