Japanese traditional sweets are often related and tied to the specific customs or holidays. ‘Ohagi’ is the one for the event called ‘Higan’ which is celebrated upon the spring and autumn equinox. Ohagi is otherwise called ‘Botamochi’ in some regions. Some people say that the one made in spring time is called Botamochi and the one made in autumn shall be called Ohagi, though both are actually identical. It is said that the distinction of the names came from the names of flowers characterise each season. It’s made from sticky rice which is half-way pounded after steamed. Then the rice ...
