ikasen

Ikasen is a type of Japanese traditional sweet, specifically a type of confection. It is often made with mochi, a pounded glutinous rice cake, or sometimes with agar-agar, a gelatinous substance derived from seaweed. The texture of ikasen can vary, but it is typically soft and chewy.

These sweets are often flavored with fruit, such as plum (ume), or other natural ingredients. They can also be colored with natural dyes. Ikasen are frequently enjoyed as a snack or a dessert, and are often accompanied by green tea. Their appearance can also be quite varied, with some being simple in shape while others are molded into more intricate designs, sometimes resembling fruits or flowers. The exact origins and specific regional variations of ikasen can be diverse, reflecting the broad culinary landscape of Japan. They are a part of the wider category of wagashi, which encompasses many traditional Japanese confections.