Rakugan - Kouhaku

Red and White Cake こうはくKouhaku

Red and white are the colors of joy and blessing, with the red rakugan being seen as a symbol to ward off evil spirits. The kouhaku offerings ordered by the Taiwan branch of the Kyoto religious group are made in a similar way to rakugan. The round and rustic shape of the kouhaku seems simple, but it requires considerable experience and speed to make. It is an indispensable part of the ritual ceremony.

-"Wagashi Magic Manual" Emily Wu Huijing, 2021

Things to note:

• There is red bean paste filling inside the kouhaku, so please keep it refrigerated if possible.
• It can be stored in a cool place at room temperature for about 2 days.
• Kouhaku is a type of higashi. If it tastes a little dry and hard, heat/steam slightly to soften it before enjoying; it will harden again after cooling, so please finish it as soon as possible.