What is Wasanbon? — Japan's Traditional Premium Sugar
Wasanbon is a traditional premium sugar of Japan,
with a history spanning over 200 years, produced in parts of Kagawa and Tokushima prefectures.
It is mainly used in high-end Japanese sweets and is known for its refined sweetness and smooth texture.
While white sugar and brown sugar are common,
Wasanbon, with its unique manufacturing process, offers a depth of sweetness,
making it an excellent match with Japanese tea.
Characteristics of Wasanbon
1. Refined Sweetness and Unique Flavor
Wasanbon is not overly sweet like white sugar, offering a mild and gentle sweetness.
The aftertaste is refreshing, with a hint of richness.
2. Melting Texture in the Mouth
The particles of Wasanbon are extremely fine, quickly dissolving in the mouth.
This smooth texture is a charm not found in other sugars!
3. Handmade Masterpiece through Traditional Methods
Wasanbon is made using traditional methods dating back to the Edo period.
As a result, it is difficult to mass-produce, and it remains a premium sugar crafted by skilled artisans.
How Wasanbon is Made
1. Using Bamboo Sugar as Raw Material
Wasanbon is made from bamboo sugar (a special type of sugarcane resembling bamboo shoots).
Compared to ordinary sugarcane, it has less fiber and is characterized by a pure sweetness without any off-flavors.
2. Traditional Sugar-making Process (Grinding, Pressing, Drying)
The making of Wasanbon involves the processes of "grinding," "pressing," and "drying".
- Grinding: Boil down the juice extracted from bamboo sugar and solidify it, then crush it finely using a wooden mortar and pestle
- Pressing: Pack the crushed sugar into wooden molds to form specific shapes
- Drying: After drying, Wasanbon is complete!
These handcrafted processes give Wasanbon its unique melting quality.
Japanese Sweets Made with Wasanbon
1. Higashi (Dry Confectionery)
- The most popular Wasanbon sweet!
- Shaped into cute forms using wooden molds, with an aesthetically pleasing appearance
- Commonly enjoyed with matcha or tea
2. Wasanbon Roll Cake
- A Western-style confectionery utilizing the gentle sweetness of Wasanbon
- Pairs excellently with fresh cream, boasting a moist texture
3. Wasanbon Pudding
- Adding Wasanbon to smooth pudding creates a mellow sweetness!
- Recommended for those who enjoy Japanese-style desserts
Places to Enjoy Wasanbon in Kagawa
1. Baikodo (Higashikagawa City)
Location: Hiketa, Higashikagawa City, Kagawa Prefecture
Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Feature: A renowned Wasanbon shop! Offers handmade experiences
2. Wasanbon Specialty Shop "Mitaniseito"
Location: Shido, Sanuki City, Kagawa Prefecture
Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Feature: A long-established shop preserving traditional Wasanbon methods
3. Kagawa Confectionery Shop "Kasho Shibayama"
Location: Takamatsu City
Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Feature: Enjoy Japanese sweets made with Wasanbon in Takamatsu City
Useful Information for Travelers
1. Where Can You Buy Wasanbon?
Available at souvenir shops, Japanese confectionery stores, and online shops in Kagawa!
Especially abundant at Takamatsu Airport and JR Takamatsu Station souvenir shops.
2. How Much Does Wasanbon Cost?
- Typical Wasanbon dry confectionery (boxed) ranges from 1,000 to 2,500 yen
- Sweets made with Wasanbon cost about 500 to 1,500 yen
3. Can You Experience Making Wasanbon?
At "Baikodo" in Higashikagawa City, Kagawa, you can experience making Wasanbon!
You can fill molds and make Wasanbon yourself to take home.
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Summary
- Wasanbon is a traditional premium sugar from Kagawa with a refined sweetness
- Its unique melting quality is achieved through a handcrafted sugar-making process using bamboo sugar
- Used in both Japanese and Western sweets, Wasanbon dry confectionery is especially popular!
- In Kagawa, enjoy Wasanbon at Baikodo and Mitaniseito
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the differences between Wasanbon and regular sugar?
A: It features a milder and gentler sweetness compared to regular white sugar.
Also, due to the careful handmade production process, it offers a unique melting quality.
Q: What are recommended sweets using Wasanbon?
A: Traditional Wasanbon dry confectionery and roll cakes, puddings are recommended!
Especially, Wasanbon dry confectionery pairs excellently with matcha.
Q: Where can you buy Wasanbon?
A: It's available at souvenir shops, Japanese confectionery stores, and online shops in Kagawa.
Especially at Takamatsu Airport and JR Takamatsu Station, you'll find a wide variety of Wasanbon! Visit Kagawa and try this traditional Wasanbon!
