Berad Studio

Made Fresh: Nakamura Mochi Pounding

by | Feb 25, 2017

Mochi is an internationally enjoyed Japanese food made from steamed, pounded and formed balls of rice. Over the centuries, it’s become a product of mass production made by machines rather than men and women.

Decades ago, the Nakamura family from Pearl City, Hawaii decided to start a tradition of pounding mochi the traditional Japanese way with a wooden mallet (Kine) and a stone bowl (Usu). It’s a tradition their family has faithfully continued since World War II and one that they hope the new generations will pass on to their keiki (children).

It’s a good reminder that some of the freshest things we can do is preserve the traditions that make our families unique.

Director + Camera: Brad Watanabe
Editor + Sound: Mauna Burgess

Gear used:
Camera Gear used:
Camera: Red Scarlet-W
Lenses: Leica-R Prime lens kit + Sigma Art 18-35 Art
Manfrotto Video Monopod
Sachtler DV6 Tripod
Rode NTG3 boom kit
Rode Lavalier
Tascam DR70
Sanyo Enloop Batteries
ThinkTank Camera Backpack