noun
fortifying mochi; strength-giving mochi
Mochi eaten to build strength, often associated with physical labor or traditional events.
昔の農家では、力餅を食べて田植えに備えた。
In old farming households, they ate fortifying mochi to prepare for rice planting.
noun
postpartum mochi from parents
Mochi given by the new mother's parents after childbirth, a traditional custom.
See also: 汁の餅
出産後、実家から力餅が届いた。
After giving birth, she received fortifying mochi from her parents' home.
noun
first-birthday mochi for toddler
Mochi given to a child on their first birthday, symbolizing strength and growth.
一歳の誕生日に、力餅を背負わせる地域もある。
In some regions, they have the one-year-old carry fortifying mochi on their back.
Generic mochi; 力餅 specifically refers to mochi associated with strength or traditional life events.
Compound of 力 (chikara, 'strength') and 餅 (mochi, 'rice cake'). The exact origin of the custom is uncertain, but the name reflects the belief that eating this mochi imparts strength.