Mochitsuki Demonstration

Learn how to make mochi and explore the customs and tradition this process represents in Japanese Culture.

Mochitsuki, or the Japanese mochi-making ceremony, is a 1,000 year old New Year's tradition to celebrate the rice harvest and to bring good luck to participants in the upcoming year. The process of making mochi involves the time-consuming task of pounding rice to transform the whole grain into a sticky, flavorful dough that has become a favorite treat in the West.

Join BioPark staff, the Sister City Foundation for Sasebo, Japan, the APS Career Enrichment Center, and the Japanese American Citizens League of NM in a hands-on demonstration to learn about Mochitsuki festivals in Japan. After you participate in making mochi using traditional wooden mallets and an usu (stone basin), grab a fresh sample while supplies last!