The Story of Wasanbon

Wasanbon: A Delicate Sweet to Enjoy with Tea

Known for its smooth texture and refined, subtly sweet flavor, Wasanbon is a traditional confectionery perfectly paired with tea.

Phenimax’s Wasanbon is a pure, authentic Wasanbon that contains no fillers such as rice flour or starch.
In other words, it is made from 100% sugarcane.
However, its flavor is entirely distinct from the everyday sugar you may be accustomed to.

Every person who tastes Phenimax’s Wasanbon is astonished, exclaiming, “Is this really 100% sugar?”

The secret lies in the carefully selected sugarcane and the time-honored Japanese artisanal techniques that have been passed down for over 200 years. The sugarcane used as the raw ingredient is a rare variety known as "Taketō," which grows exclusively in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan.

From harvest to the completion of Wasanbon sugar, the meticulous process takes over 30 days.

One of the most crucial steps in the production process is a technique known as "Togi" (polishing). In the traditional method of crafting Wasanbon, skilled artisans meticulously knead the sugar by hand.

The "Togi" (polishing) process and the "Oshibune" (pressing) process, which extracts Wasanbon sugar, are meticulously repeated by hand five times.

While many companies rely on machines for this process, Phenimax’s Wasanbon sugar is crafted using time-honored techniques by a company founded in 1804, which has been dedicated exclusively to Wasanbon sugar production for over 200 years.

To craft the finest Wasanbon confections using the highest-quality Wasanbon sugar—free from fillers such as rice flour or starch—traditional wooden molds are essential. 

Metal molds are unsuitable, as they cause the delicate sugar to crumble, preventing it from holding its shape.

Today, only two artisans in Japan possess the skill to craft these traditional wooden molds.
One of them is master artisan Ichihara.

He is a master artisan of Japan’s traditional crafts, honored by the government with an official award—an individual of Living National Treasure caliber.

Crafted using master artisan Ichihara’s wooden molds to achieve the highest quality in Japan—this is Phenimax's Wasanbon.

Our Wasanbon is available in four exquisite colors, all derived from natural ingredients. Enjoy with peace of mind, knowing only natural colorings are used.

Carefully handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, Phenimax's Wasanbon is challenging to mass-produce. However, it stands as Japan's proudest and most luxurious sugar, renowned worldwide.

Our Wasanbon is not only perfect for Japanese tea but also complements coffee, cocktails, and culinary creations beautifully.

For those interested in custom Wasanbon featuring your family crest or an original design, please contact us.