Mochi-Pounding Event Held with Tokyo Hino International College (Jan. 14)
Jan 14,2026
On January 14, 2026, a mochi-pounding event was held at Sakura Hall on the Hino Campus, welcoming 34 international students from Tokyo Hino International College.
Using traditional wooden mallets (kine) and mortars (usu), participants took turns experiencing the classic Japanese method of making mochi. For many of the international students, it was their first time handling the mallet and mortar. As they worked together, cheerful voices calling out “Yoisho! Yoisho!” filled the hall, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.
The freshly pounded mochi was warm and wonderfully chewy, bringing smiles to the faces of everyone who took part. Four flavors were prepared—soy sauce, seaweed (nori), sweet red bean paste (anko), and soybean flour (kinako). Interestingly, the most popular choice among participants was nori.
During the event, international students and students from our university also had opportunities to talk about traditional Japanese customs, such as the Hinamatsuri festival. These natural exchanges provided a valuable opportunity to deepen cross-cultural understanding while joyfully celebrating the New Year together.
Our university will continue to create opportunities for student interaction and learning through collaboration with local communities and other educational institutions.
