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Junichi Mitsubori Masterclass
We are delighted to announce that Junichi Mitsubori will be returning to teach in November 2024. The registration links for the Nerikiri Wagashi Systematic Course Elementary and Intermediate courses are now available. Stay tuned for updates on Mitsubori sensei's latest works and courses. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from the master!
Junichi Mitsubori is a world-famous wagashi master, a third-generation wagashi artisan of traditional Japanese sweets store Izumiya (いづみや) and the director of the Association of Japanese Sweets. He was born in Yokosuka, Kanagawa, in 1974. In 1995, he graduated from the Seika Sweets College in Tokyo. Mitsubori first gained attention when he won TV Tokyo's "TV Champion R" dessert artisan competition in 2010". Still, his popularity grew when he initiated a daily photo project on Instagram called "Wagashi of the Day" in 2015 to promote his preferred style, "Nerikiri" work, to a broader, younger audience. The image-centric platform became the perfect stage for Mitsubori's elaborate creations, and his followers have now reached over 300,000.
Mitsubori turns the wagashi presentation into a new art form. In 2016, he founded his school Kado Ichikaryu. Kado (way of wagashi), a term that echoes the meticulous care and preparation involved in Chado (way of tea), uses bespoke utensils and calculated gestures to produce a highly stylized wagashi experience. Sophisticated wagashi like Nerikiri originated were naturally made by artisans' hands, and the wagashi are perfect in appearance and taste.
To Mitsubori, the beauty of the performance is as crucial to Kado as the artistry of the dessert itself. He is currently performing and teaching Kado overseas. As a master of Kado, Mitsubori does not merely make food, he instead wants the audience to appreciate the performance and his subtle movements. You can see more of Mitsubori's works on his Instagram page. https://www.instagram.com/junichi_mitsubori/
Japan Kado Ichika-ryu Association Certification System
From September 2023, the Kado Ichika-Ryu will conduct the Kado Certification Examination twice a year in spring and autumn, involving written and practical assessments.
In the dojo, unlike traditional external teaching, where multiple designs and techniques are observed, imitated, and created in a day, the focus is not on experiential learning but on deeply ingraining each individual's theoretical knowledge, etiquette, techniques, and moral values learned through wagashi.
Led by the world of tea ceremony akin to Zen, the spirit of wagashi has evolved beautifully, embodying these teachings.
In the modern and diverse world of contemporary wagashi, we dedicate ourselves daily to mastering the essence of "Wa" based on its roots and passing it on.
Kado Ichika-ryu
Junichi Mitsubori
Introduction:
The charter levels are specifically divided into four levels, Shodan (1st Dan), Nidan (2nd Dan), Shihan-dai (Instructor), Shihan (Master), with corresponding appraisal examinations set up for these four levels. Those who pass the Nerikiri Wagashi Appraisal Examination will receive a charter (qualification certificate) officially issued by the Japan Kado Ichika-ryu Association to prove that the learner has reached the corresponding confectionery and discipline level. (The Association will send the charter for successful candidates from the Japanese headquarters via international EMS.)
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Junichi Mitsubori | 6-Day Systematic Course in Nerikiri Wagashi - Elementary Level
Date: 15~20/11 (Fri to Wed)
Time: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Instructor: Junichi Mitsubori
Medium of Instruction: Japanese (with Japanese-Mandarin translation)
Fee: HK$18,000
Mitsubori sensei will teach you his unique Ichika Style techniques, a perfect blend of traditional Japanese tools and Mitsubori's original skills in this comprehensive Wagashi course. During this 6-day course, Mitsubori sensei will examine fundamental techniques and theories of practice, ensuring mastery of traditional tools and techniques. It will lay the groundwork for achieving more precise and perfect wagashi styling. A solid foundation is crucial for success in Nerikiri Wagashi's craftsmanship.
Day 1
💥 Learn about Wagashi and Nerikiri
💥 Introduction・Selection and cooking of beans・The importance of stuffing
💥 Making of Nerikiri dough・Making of traditional red bean filling・2 flavors of filling
💥 Sweetness adjustment: Correct sugar reduction/sugar substitution ratio
💥 Notes on the moisture content and sugar content of the Nerikiri dough, the best consumption periods and the storage method
💥 Simple method of making Nerikiri dough (suitable for experienced class preparation and home production)
Day 2
💥 2 basic dyeing methods
💥 Kneading and stuffing techniques
💥 Tools Introduction ① (Triangular Bar etc.)・2 basic stylings
💥 Color selection and colour-matching skills for Wagashi making
💥 Contingencies and solutions to various problems
💥 Precautions for packaging, storage and selling of Wagashi
Day 3
💥 Tools introduction ② (Horse Hair Sieve, etc.)
💥 Different traditional techniques corresponding to each tool
💥 Grate cutting chrysanthemum technique (Japanese Wagashi Skilled Craftsmen Examination Level Two Techniques)
💥 5 basic styling・Spoon shape technique
💥 Wagashi composition aesthetics guide
Day 4
💥 Tools introduction ③ ("Single Character" Spatula, Round Push Tool, etc.)
💥 Different traditional techniques corresponding to each tool
💥 5 basic stylings
💥 Tips for pressing flower centre
Day 5
💥 Tools introduction ④ (Silk Cloth, etc.)
💥 Different traditional techniques corresponding to each tool
💥 5 basic stylings
💥 Lights and shades aesthetics of Wagashi
Day 6
💥 Tools introduction ⑤ (Thousand Ribs Board, Curved Blade Spatula, etc.)
💥 Different traditional techniques corresponding to each tool
💥 5 basic stylings
💥 The depiction of three-dimensional lines
💥 Issuance of course completion certificate・Group photos
📌 The tuition fee includes a Certificate and all materials.
📌 The required tools will be provided to use during the class.
📌 The end time is just a rough estimate and will vary depending on actual progress.
📌 Upon completion of this course, you can register to participate in the Shodan (1st Dan) assessment examination to acquire the Shodan level qualification.
Junichi Mitsubori | 2-Day Systematic Course in Nerikiri Wagashi - Intermediate Level A
Date: 21~22/11 (Thu to Fri)
Time: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Instructor: Junichi Mitsubori
Medium of Instruction: Japanese (with Japanese-Mandarin translation)
Fee: HK$6,900
📌 This course is divided into two 2-day parts: Part A and Part B. Upon completing all contents of both Part A and Part B, if a student has previously completed the elementary course and obtained Shodan (1st Dan) qualification, students can take part in an assessment conducted by Junichi Mitsubori to get the professional Nerikiri Wagashi Nidan (2nd Dan) qualification.
📌 The intermediate-level Nerikiri Wagashi course is taught cyclically. Suppose you cannot enrol in Parts A and B of the current course. In that case, you can participate in either Part A or Part B now and join the remaining part in the next session of the intermediate-level course conducted by Junichi Mitsubori to qualify for the assessment.
📌 Prior experience in making wagashi is required for enrolling in the intermediate-level course.
📌 The discounted price for enrolling in all Part A and B is HK$12,800.
Course Highlights:
🎯 Building upon the foundation of basic Nerikiri Wagashi skills, the Intermediate Level Course introduces essential techniques such as scissor and needle cutting, systematically improving your Nerikiri skills.
🎯 You will learn and become familiar with traditional Japanese Wagashi scissor-cutting techniques, Junichi Mitsubori's original needle-cutting technique, and derivative uses of other Wagashi tools.
Learning Outcomes:
Day 1
💥 The fundamentals of Intermediate Nerikiri scissors techniques
💥 How to hold scissors and get started correctly
💥 Silk Cloth impression techniques
💥 Wagashi shape concept
Day 2
💥 Introduction of Needle-Cutting tools
💥 Demonstrate the correct way to hold the needle chopsticks and basic techniques
💥 Present various flowers using needle-cutting techniques
💥 Six basic needle-cut stylings
📌 The tuition fee includes a Certificate and all materials.
📌 The required tools will be provided to use during the class.
📌 The end time is just a rough estimate and will vary depending on actual progress.
Junichi Mitsubori | 2-Day Systematic Course in Nerikiri Wagashi - Intermediate Level B
Date: 23~24/11 (Sat to Sun)
Time: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Instructor: Junichi Mitsubori
Medium of Instruction: Japanese (with Japanese-Mandarin translation)
Fee: HK$6,900
📌 This course is divided into two 2-day parts: Part A and Part B. Upon completing all contents of both Part A and Part B, if a student has previously completed the elementary course and obtained Shodan (1st Dan) qualification, students can take part in an assessment conducted by Junichi Mitsubori to get the professional Nerikiri Wagashi Nidan (2nd Dan) qualification.
📌 The intermediate-level Nerikiri Wagashi course is taught cyclically. Suppose you cannot enrol in Parts A and B of the current course. In that case, you can participate in either Part A or Part B now and join the remaining part in the next session of the intermediate-level course conducted by Junichi Mitsubori to qualify for the assessment.
📌 Prior experience in making wagashi is required for enrolling in the intermediate-level course.
📌 The discounted price for enrolling in all Part A and B is HK$12,800.
Course Highlights:
🎯 Building upon the foundation of basic Nerikiri Wagashi skills, the Intermediate Level Course introduces essential techniques such as scissor and needle cutting, systematically improving your Nerikiri skills.
🎯 You will learn and become familiar with traditional Japanese Wagashi scissor-cutting techniques, Junichi Mitsubori's original needle-cutting technique, and derivative uses of other Wagashi tools.
Learning Outcomes:
Day 1
💥 Introduction to Intermediate-Level Nerikiri techniques and knowledge
💥 Advanced colouring techniques (colour presentation for different shapes, thread-like smudging techniques, intermediate colour blending techniques)
💥 Demonstrate the correct way to hold scissors and basic techniques
💥 Intermediate techniques with Silk Cloth impression
💥 Conceptualization of Wagashi shapes and creative tool improvisation
Day 2
💥 Introduction of needle-cutting tools
💥 Demonstrate the correct way to hold the needle chopsticks and basic techniques
💥 Presentation methods for various petal shapes through needle-cutting
💥 Six basic needle-cut stylings
📌 The tuition fee includes a Certificate and all materials.
📌 The required tools will be provided to use during the class.
📌 The end time is just a rough estimate and will vary depending on actual progress.
Junichi Mitsubori | 2-Day Kado Ichika Traditional Wagashi Course
Date: 26~27/11 (Tue to Wed)
Time: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Instructor: Junichi Mitsubori
Medium of Instruction: Japanese (with Japanese-Mandarin translation)
Fee: HK$7,500
Traditional Wagashi desserts are loved for their delightful textures. Examples include popular treats like Daifuku, Dango, Manju, and Dorayaki. Their versatile appeal and deliciousness have made them beloved traditional snacks found throughout the streets of Japan.
This course will cover the making of classic tea snacks 🪄 and new traditional confectionery - a total of 8 delicious treats, including the Mitsubori sensei's all-new course content, essential for tea shops, featuring authentic wagashi, 🎊 and popular products sold at tea ceremonies using the traditional methods of making Japanese wagashi by confectionery artisans:
🍓 Japanese renowned confectionery Ichigo Daifuku, 🥯 various types of Japanese steamed confections, 🍱 baked confections.
Course Highlights:
🎯 Understanding the various types of rice flour commonly used in Japanese sweets and their specific purposes.
🎯 Applying the knowledge of famous Japanese sweets to develop innovative snacks by combining various flavours.
Exclusive:
Exclusive recipe for Chicken-Shaped Steamed Buns (better than all in the market) and many classic tea ceremony snacks will be showcased, along with several novel traditional wagashi treats, covering all bases 🎁 Exclusive course, don't miss out 🪄 Let's meet in Hong Kong 🇭🇰 in November
📌 The tuition fee includes a Certificate and all materials.
📌 The required tools will be provided to use during the class.
📌 The end time is just a rough estimate and will vary depending on actual progress.
Junichi Mitsubori | 2-Day Kado Ichika Nagashi Course
Date: 28~29/11 (Thu to Fri)
Time: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Instructor: Junichi Mitsubori
Medium of Instruction: Japanese (with Japanese-Mandarin translation)
Fee: HK$7,500
Nagshi refers to Japanese confectionery with a flowing or liquid-like consistency. It is known for its refreshing and visually appealing qualities, making it suitable for spring and summer.
Course Highlights:
🎯 Special collection of Colourful Fancy Kingyokukan.
🎯 The basic knowledge and proper usage of plant-based gelling agent agar, correct usage methods, diverse colour matching, and multiple flavours corresponding to colours.
🎯 Uncover the secret to creating the most captivating confection in the Nagashi family, Kingyokukan, and master the art of pairing colour and flavour. Learn to enhance the visual appeal and taste of the ingredients..
🎯 The brand-new fruit flavour modulation formula is being introduced for the first time, unlocking the secret method of making transparent Kingyokukan when agar meets acidity; even if the raw materials are domestically produced, they are convenient to obtain. This opens a new era of pure and healthy Nagashi.
Learning Outcomes:
💥 Yokan + Kingyokukan + Ukishima
💥 A distinctive selection of Nagashi combinations featuring steamed yokan as the primary base, learning to combine yokan with multiple elements to create artworks with rich conceptual ideas.
💥 The new formula for Kingyokukan courses, exclusively designed and developed by the Kado Ichika-Ryu, significantly reduces the sweetness of Nagashi. It integrates art and taste, creating worry-free and authentic Japanese confectionery.
📌 The tuition fee includes a Certificate and all materials.
📌 The required tools will be provided to use during the class.
📌 The end time is just a rough estimate and will vary depending on actual progress.
Junichi Mitsubori | Kado Ichika Hikigashi Course
Date: 30/11 (Sat)
Time: 9:30 am - 6:00 pm
Instructor: Junichi Mitsubori
Medium of Instruction: Japanese (with Japanese-Mandarin translation)
Fee: HK$3,900
Japanese Hikigashi is a traditional gift often used to celebrate special occasions such as weddings, births, and New Year. These candies or traditional Japanese confections are usually beautifully packaged, symbolizing love, happiness, and good fortune. In the upcoming Kado Ichika Hikigashi course, the focus will be on teaching the traditional Japanese shading technique (a Nerikiri technique), allowing everyone to create exquisite and delicately textured Hikigashi.
Course Highlights:
🎯 Traditional Japanese shading technique (a Nerikiri technique)
🎯 Achieve various watercolour-like effects through shading, creating Wagashi images resembling watercolour paintings.
Learning Outcomes:
💥 The Nerikiri shading technique is one of the refined shading expression techniques.
💥 It involves the technique of overlapping another layer of shading to create a three-dimensional effect.
💥 The shading technique allows for intricate depictions resembling watercolour paintings.
💥 Depict primarily through the "colour pairing technique," showcasing the typical "colour → white" shading gradient. A "three-dimensional effect" is achieved by embedding gradients in two directions. Additionally, through the pairing of "white with white," designs can be depicted to "fade into white," also known as the "fading" technique.
💥 In the original shading technique, specialised tools like wooden frames and moulds were mainly used. In this course, Mitsubori sensei demonstrates that the same effects can be achieved using a "Wagashi Silk Cloth" technique.
📌 The tuition fee includes a Certificate and all materials.
📌 The required tools will be provided to use during the class.
📌 The end time is just a rough estimate and will vary depending on actual progress.
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