Usu (mortar) facts for kids
An usu (pronounced "oo-soo") is a large Japanese tool. It's like a big bowl or mortar. It comes with a long pounding stick called a kine (pronounced "kee-neh"). People use the usu and kine to pound things like rice or millet. While it's similar to smaller grinding bowls called suribachi, the usu is much bigger and used differently.
What an Usu Looks Like
An usu is usually about one meter (about 3 feet) tall, including its base. It's about 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) wide. These tools are often made from strong wood or heavy stone. The kine is a very long wooden hammer, usually longer than one meter.
Using an usu often needs two people working together. One person lifts and swings the kine. They pound the rice in the usu with a strong, chopping motion. This work is very hard and is often done by men. They might even chant to help keep a steady rhythm. Between each swing, another person quickly puts their hand into the bowl to turn the rice. It's super important for everyone to time their actions perfectly to stay safe!
How an Usu is Used
The most common thing an usu is used for is making mochi. Mochi is a very sticky rice cake made by pounding cooked white rice until it becomes a smooth, dough-like mass.
You can still find usu being used in Japan today. They are common in traditional restaurants. Sometimes, you'll also see them in older, rural homes or in wealthier private homes. Around New Year's, many companies and groups use usu to make mochi together. They then share it with their employees. This helps everyone feel more connected and part of the team.
