Flea Market Finds: Higashi Molds.

Stop at one of Tokyo's many weekend flea markets, and you'll inevitably pause and say, "What is that?"  

Here, we have higashi molds!  Higashi are dried sweets that are often eaten during Chado (tea ceremony).  Check out the link below to see some photos of beautiful higashi. 

Don't be intimidated by the original, culinary purpose of these molds.  Their graphic quality can be appreciated all on its own.  A grouping of these would look stunning hanging on your kitchen wall.  Sure, your Japanese friends here might laugh, but once back in the States, your good taste and artistic eye will be admired by all of your American friends.

If you are studying Japanese, the kanji for this higashi are 干菓子 or乾菓子. Not to be confused with this higashi, 東, the kanji for "east."

http://www.saveur.com/article/Kitchen/Sweeter-Than-Sugar

Disclaimer:  I do my best to make sure all my information is accurate.  However, details may change or I may just be flat-out wrong.  Please let me know if something needs a correction.  Thank-you!