On Saturday, January 24th, we held a “Shima-Oya Hosted Mochi-Making Experience” for G10 students (first-year high school students).
In preparation for the event, many residents of the Okushi district, led by the island parents, assisted with numerous tasks such as moving the pestles and mortars and preparing the glutinous rice.
Mochi pounding is an important Japanese traditional culture, praying for a bountiful harvest and wishing for the bonds of family and community. However, opportunities to experience it have become rare lately, and many students were experiencing mochi pounding for the first time.
The students experienced the pleasant aroma of steamed glutinous rice and the challenge of pounding the rice with heavy mallets, coordinating their breathing and hand movements. By learning tips from the island parents and working together to pound the rice, they strengthened their sense of solidarity with the local community.
The mochi made through their joint effort tasted especially delicious, creating a heartwarming moment of shared joy.
