Updated November 4, 2024
Anpan
Anpan (Japanese sweet red bean bun), introduced here, is one of the most beloved confections for Japanese people. April 4 is Anpan Day, as cherry blossom anpan was presented to Emperor Meiji to coincide with the cherry blossom season.
Anpan has been a classic snack that can easily be found anywhere such as convenience stores, supermarkets, bakeries, Japanese confectionery shops, and many other places. Today, stores specializing in anpan can also be found everywhere and many variations exist. You can enjoy a wide variety not only in taste but also in ingredients and shape.
Anpan History
After the end of the samurai era, Kimura Yasubei was searching for a new way of life, and in 1869, he opened a bakery. In 1874, he put anpan on display in his store, and Tesshu Yamaoka, an official in the Emperor's service, was amazed by its taste.
On April 4, 1875, the cherry blossom anpan was presented to Emperor Meiji as a snack for cherry blossom viewing, and the Emperor enjoyed it greatly. That day was later commemorated as Anpan Day.
The Seven Tools of Civilization
Westernization in Japan during the Meiji era, known as Bunmei-kaika, changed people's lifestyles and customs drastically. The "Seven Tools of Civilization and Enlightenment" symbolize this phenomenon and vary slightly depending on the source, but most of the time, they are postal service, gas lamps, steamships, photographs, dirigible balloon, steam train, and last but not least, anpan.
Preservable
Generally speaking, anpan can be preserved without preservatives. This is because the red bean paste contains enough sugar to make it challenging for bacteria to grow, allowing it to be safely stored for extended periods without the use of preservatives.
Modern Anpan
Complete Meal Anpan has been developed!
This anpan is not only delicious, but also contains 33 essential nutrients that are well-balanced and packed with vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids.
