2023 Experience Japanese New Year Traditions (Celebrate New Year's the Japanese Way: Mochitsuki, Mochibana, & Kadomatsu Demonstrations in the Garden)NEW

Celebrate the arrival of the New Year in authentic Japanese style by immersing yourself in a cultural experience like no other! Join us at the Japanese Friendship Garden in Phoenix for a unique celebration featuring traditional activities such as mochitsuki, mochibana, and kadomatsu demonstrations.

At this event, you'll have the opportunity to witness the intricate art of mochitsuki, where glutinous rice is pounded to create delicious and symbolic mochi rice cakes. Discover the beauty of mochibana, an art form that involves arranging vibrant and meaningful decorations made from mochi. Additionally, gain insight into the significance of kadomatsu, an arrangement of bamboo, pine, and plum branches that symbolize longevity, prosperity, and steadfastness.

All of these captivating demonstrations are included with admission, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Japanese New Year celebrations. Don't miss this chance to experience the cultural depth and beauty of Japan right in the heart of Phoenix at the Japanese Friendship Garden.

Date
Dec 16, 2023

Time
10:00 am - 1:30 pm

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Schedule

Mochi Tsuki Demonstration: 10 am - 10:30 am
Watch and learn as we demonstrate the art of Mochi Tsuki, the pounding of glutinous rice to create delicious mochi. This traditional Japanese treat holds a special place in New Year celebrations and has been practiced for hundreds of years.

Mochi Bana Creation: 10:30 am - 11:30 am
Dive into the hands-on process of shaping and decorating mochi to craft beautiful New Year’s decorations known as "Mochi Bana." This creative process allows you to craft ikebana with colorful mochi that embodies the spirit of the New Year.

Kadomatsu Demonstration: 12: 00 pm - 1: 30 pm
Our Garden Curator, Ben Schrepf, will take guests through the construction and symbolism of Kadomatsu, the "gate pines." These stunning decorations grace the entrances of homes, businesses, temples, and shops across Japan during the New Year season. Kadomatsu always come in pairs and feature the "three friends of winter": pine, bamboo, and plum.

This trio, known as Sho Chiku Bai, is a cherished symbol of winter, and its significance can be found throughout Japanese art and decorative arrangements, as well as in other parts of Asia.

Our Garden Curator will guide you step by step in arranging your very own Kadomatsu, allowing you to experience this rich cultural tradition firsthand.

Come celebrate the New Year with us and learn about these wonderful Japanese traditions. We look forward to sharing this experience with you.

Location
Phoenix Japanese Friendship Garden - Ro Ho En1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003

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