Location: Kumamoto Prefecture, Yatsushiro City, Izumi Town
Specialty: Production and sale of local specialty foods, including yuzukosho (yuzu chili paste), mountain vegetables, and green tea products.
About the Company
Izumi Corporation, also known as Fureai Center Izumi, is a community-focused company located in the scenic Izumi region, renowned for its rich agricultural and cultural heritage. Established to promote the region’s specialties, the company manages a roadside station (“Michi-no-Eki Hikyo-no-Sato Izumi”) that features a market for local products, a restaurant, and event spaces.
The company is particularly well-known for its award-winning “Hidden Village Yuzukosho”, a premium yuzu chili paste crafted with locally grown yuzu and peppers. This product has gained national recognition for its rich aroma, vibrant color, and perfectly balanced flavor. It was honored with the “France Prize” in the 2008 Japan Souvenir Contest, showcasing its international appeal.
Key Products
Yuzukosho: A versatile condiment made from freshly harvested yuzu and peppers, processed the same day to preserve its flavor.
Izumi Tea: Locally grown and processed green tea, known for its rich taste and aroma.
Seasonal Vegetables: Fresh produce grown in the high-altitude, nutrient-rich soils of the region.
Handmade Processed Foods: Including tofu pickled in miso and other traditional delicacies.
Community Role
Izumi Corporation collaborates with local farmers and artisans to sustain regional agriculture and create employment opportunities. Their products represent the collective efforts of the community, aiming to bring the charm of Izumi to a broader audience.
Website: Michi-no-Eki Hikyo-no-Sato Izumi