Abstract
This article examines the notion of tradition associated with the world of Japanese sweets, wagashi. The first part sheds light on the mechanisms involved in the historical development of this culinary tradition. Then, to better understand its contemporary issues, several confectionery shops located outside major metropolitan areas are presented, illustrating strategies of creativity developed in response to challenging economic conditions. Finally, the heritage-making (patrimonialization) of wagashi within the broader context of tourism development highlights their increasingly central role in both local and national cultural policies.