社会｜高騰する餅と神社の餅投げ / Society | The Rising Prices of Mochi and Mochi Tossing at Shrines

Summary

The traditional “mochi throwing” event held annually at Kawahara Shrine in Showa Ward, Nagoya City, has been affected by the recent rise in rice cake prices.

The price of glutinous rice has doubled, leading to an increase of 50 yen for daifuku at local sweet shops, among other impacts. The shrine’s mochi throwing is no exception, and it has become more difficult to throw the large amounts of rice cakes as in the past. There is no clear outlook for future price increases, which could also affect this regional traditional event.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Wow! I can’t believe that the rice cake throwing at the shrine is being affected by this!
Rog: Yeah, the price of glutinous rice has doubled recently, so it’s tough for the wagashi shops too.
Chako: So does that mean there will be fewer rice cakes at the throwing event?
Rog: It’s quite possible. I’m worried about whether we can maintain our local traditional events.
Navi: The soaring prices of rice cakes are likely related to the overall increase in food prices. In particular, the price of sake rice is also having an impact.
Chako: I see, that’s what’s going on!

Admin’s Note

It’s very unfortunate that the mochi throwing event, which is cherished as a local traditional festival, is being affected. As prices continue to rise, it becomes increasingly difficult to uphold traditions in an already challenging situation. I hope the local community can come together to overcome this situation somehow. Additionally, since similar issues could arise in other areas, it may be important to share this information widely.