Wagashi to Enjoy Daily, A Shop Born from "Nichigashi = HIGASHI"

The wagashi shop "HIGASHIYA" was first opened in Aobadai, Meguro-ku, in 2003 by Shinichiro Ogata, the owner of the Japanese dining restaurant "HIGASHI-YAMA Tokyo" in Nakameguro (now closed). The shop's unique concept, entirely different from traditional wagashi stores, is distilled into each small confection, as well as the spaces for its tea rooms and bars, reflecting the owner Shinichiro Ogata's aesthetic sensibilities.




"HIGASHIYA GINZA," located on the second floor of the Pola Ginza Building, is an evolved "Japanese tea salon" of the former tea room "HIGASHIYA" in Aobadai. It offers a unique Japanese space, and its afternoon tea, served from 2 PM, is popular among many fans.



The First Collaboration: "Ichigo Ichie" by Mai Miyake

HIGASHIYA's "Hitokuchi Kashi," while appearing modern, are crafted with thoughts of ancient confections made from fruits and nuts. The first installment of the 10th-anniversary collaboration, "Ichigo Ichie" by Mai Miyake, features a white bean paste base, with a bush clover bean paste and a single green pea, reflecting the fresh green season. The six pieces arranged in the box are inscribed with humorous yet unpretentious, direct phrases typical of artist Miyake, such as "Otsukaresama" (Thank you for your hard work), "Ari x 10" (Ant x 10), "Doumo" (Thanks), and "Oishii?" (Delicious?).




At a talk show held prior to the release, Mai Miyake spoke about the first collaboration, "Ichigo Ichie," saying, "I believe we Japanese have viewed things influenced by Eastern philosophies such as yin and yang, or black and white, light and shadow. When I was offered the chance to collaborate on this Hitokuchi Kashi, I chose black and white as my concept. Also, since the release coincides with the rainy season in June, I wanted to create packaging themed around the blessings of rain, and thus designed puddles that are appropriate for the season."




Furthermore, Mai Miyake is currently holding an exhibition at POLA MUSEUM ANNEX on the third floor of the Pola Ginza Building until Sunday, June 30. This offers a unique opportunity to experience her interpretation of "white," which she perceives as "a color that is not a color, yet is color," and to taste it.




HIGASHIYA's 10th Anniversary Collaboration "Hitokuchi Kashi" will continue with the second installment by fashion designer Akira Minagawa on Tuesday, September 3, with further third and fourth installments planned.


Mai Miyake

Born in Yokohama. Began her artistic activities in 2001. While grounded in a uniquely Japanese sensibility, she creates works that are both delicate and bold, utilizing the exhibition space. Her activities are diverse, including exhibitions and workshops at galleries such as Bunkamura Gallery, Tsubonakay, and Murakoshi Gallery, as well as museums like the Mito Art Museum, Setagaya Art Museum, and Mori Art Museum, and at art fairs both domestically and internationally. She has also collaborated with companies like Hermès and designed book covers.

http://www.maimiyake.com