December’s Special Open Lecture and End-of-Year Tea Gathering “The World of Turkish Sweets: Sweetness in a Land Where Alcohol is Frowned Upon”

For this December’s Special Open Lecture, we welcome Professor Emeritus Tadashi Suzuki (University of Tokyo/Honorary Member of the Turkish Historical Society) to explore the sweet traditions of Türkiye and the Ottoman Empire. Professor Suzuki, a distinguished researcher on the history and political culture of the Ottoman Empire, has also authored multiple works on food culture. He will provide insights into the evolution of sweet treats from the Ottoman period through to modern-day Türkiye.

Following the lecture, a tea gathering will be held, where attendees can enjoy specially crafted Japanese sweets decorated with traditional Islamic and Turkish motifs. These unique sweets are created by TORAYA, a historic confectionery founded in the Muromachi period, using molds designed by the Division of Creative Activity, Institute of Innovation in International Engineering Education, Graduate School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, incorporating the latest 3D printing technology. This is a rare opportunity to enjoy these special sweets, prepared exclusively for this event.

We welcome all interested in history, culture, and sweet traditions to join us for this memorable experience.

“The World of Turkish Sweets: Sweetness in a Land Where Alcohol is Frowned Upon”
Date: Dec. 15 (Sun)
Times: Lecture 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM; Tea Gathering 3:00 PM –
Venue: Lecture at Tokyo Camii Annex B1F, Ertugrul Hall; Tea Gathering at Tokyo Camii 1F Multi-Purpose Hall
Lecturer: Tadashi Suzuki (Professor Emeritus, University of Tokyo; Honorary Member, Turkish Historical Society)
Language: Japanese
Tea Gathering Fee: ¥1,000 (includes tea and sweets)

Advance registration is required to attend the tea gathering. Please register via the designated form in advance if you wish to participate.