Viewing the Confectionary Culture of Edo-Period Kanazawa through the Kakuson Diaries

Abstract

The “Kakuson Diaries” were written by Kakuson Kaneko between the 4th year of the Bunka Era (1804) and the 9th year of the Tenpo Era (1838). They chronicled his life as a member of the samurai society. In his diary, Kakuson wrote extensively about things such as daily activities, family members, visitors, and how sweets fit into his daily life.

In this research paper, I analyze how sweets of early 19th-century Kanazawa relate to important ceremonies and other events. The results suggest that a number of preferred sweets were an essential element at functions, including weddings, funerals, and tea ceremonies. It is evident that the ceremonies and sweets of Kanazawa’s Obon, New Year’s celebration, November Winter Solstice festival, and Parinirvana Day (Nehan-kai) in February all have special characteristics that reflect the region’s dominant Shinshu sect of Buddhism. Moreover, important ceremonies such as weaning rites and Buddhist memorial services also involved special foods and confectionaries. By simultaneously researching the events and sweets of “samurai society,” I have gained some insight into how certain sweets came into existence.