Price range: NT$233 through NT$820
The "Ruan Luo Gan" (Soft and sweet) of the Ming Dynasty in China spread through trade with Japan in the Muromachi period, and became widely distributed due to the rising popularity of tea ceremony. It was first made in Kyoto in the mid-17th century and was often used as a gift in the late Edo period. Rice flour and sugar are kneaded and then shaped into dried confectionery, which debuted in Taiwan under the master craftsmanship of Toukaya. The refreshing sensation of melting like a cloud of mist on the tip of the tongue is as dreamy as its name "Rakugan" (wild geese descending from the sky).
Specially selected sugar and Japanese kanbaiko*, is kneaded together, then firmly packed into finely-carved Japanese wooden molds and pressed into shape, (similar to Taiwanese Phoenix-Eye Cake). Dainty and easy to eat, the size of a single piece is about 3x3cm. Usually, one piece is served with a bowl of matcha (similar to the concept of a cup of coffee with a sugar cube).
In addition to being a wagashi expert, Teacher Emily is also a spiritual healer, so she strongly encourages everyone to live in the present and appreciate the beauty of the changing seasons. Take a break from the busy daily life, brew a pot of good tea, enter the realm of 'heart', calm down and enjoy a moment of peace.
*Kanbaiko かんばいこ: also known as "mijin powder", glutinous rice is steamed to make mochi, stretched and roasted into white flakes, and then grounded into powder. Commonly used for higashi (dry confectionery with a moisture content of 10% or less).
Emily Sensei says:
The unique wooden molds of higashi-making are products of the most fantastic craftsmanship. However, those who have inherited this craft are facing an alarming shortage, which inspired me to build awareness for it. After six years of promoting, our countrymen have finally become more aware of higashi. I hope that this national treasure of expert carving craftsmanship can continue and be passed down from generation to generation.
-"Wagashi Bible", p.244
Furoshiki ふろしき
Material: About 50×50 cm 100% cotton Made in Taiwan
A versatile everyday cloth used by the Japanese. In addition to being used as environmentally friendly gift packaging, furoshiki can also serve as handkerchiefs, headscarves, hair ties, napkins, table mats, cover cloths, etc.
