Hanabiramochi

Translated as a flower petal mochi, hanabiramochi is a traditional mochi variety that consists of a thinly rolled, round rice cake that is folded around bean paste. Each cake also has a thin stalk of burdock root (gobo) that sticks from the sides, while the paste often has a subtle pink hue that is supposed to show through the cake. Sometimes, the paste can be wrapped in another layer of pink-colored mochi. The history of hanabiramochi dates back to the Meiji era, and through time, they became commonly associated with New Year. Nowadays, they are traditionally served as a part of the first tea ceremony of the year (Hatsugama). Each element carries specific symbolism. While the pink hue represents ume blossom—a symbol of new beginnings—the burdock root is used as a symbol of longevity.