Katsuobushi (Dried Bonito) Factory Tour Visit & Traditional Chabushi-Making Experience

Dive into the heart of Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, for an extraordinary journey at the renowned Katsuobushi Factory in Ibusuki City. Known for producing 70% of Japan's prized Honkarebushi, this immersive tour offers a peek into the meticulous drying process of bonito and invites you to craft your traditional Chabushi.

Brace yourself for an exhilarating plunge into a -50°C freezer, a critical step in preserving the unique flavor of this indispensable component of Japanese cuisine. This hands-on experience, designed to last approximately 90 minutes, will give you a deeper appreciation for this culinary gem and a taste of authenticity you've helped create.

Perfect for enthusiasts eager to explore sustainable practices while indulging in the richness of Japan's food culture. Book now and embark on a culinary adventure to enrich your senses and deepen your understanding of Japan's treasured food heritage.

Tour Highlights

• Visit the renowned Katsuobushi Factory in Ibusuki City, known for its significant contribution to Japan's Honkarebushi production.

• Participate in making your own traditional Chabushi, learning the art of bonito shaving firsthand.

• Experience the extreme cold of a -50°C freezer used for bonito storage, understanding the importance of temperature in preserving flavor.

• Discover why Katsuobushi from Yamakawa, Ibusuki City, holds a special place in Japan's food culture and contributes 70% of the national market.

• Gain insight into the international acclaim of Ibusuki bonito, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine and dashi culture.

Tour Itinerary

Introduction to Katsuobushi

The tour, which takes place in Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan, introduces participants to Katsuobushi's cultural and market significance (dried bonito) and highlights the renowned Honkarebushi from Yamakawa.

Factory Visit and Dried Bonito Manufacturing Observation

During this 50-minute segment, participants explore the Katsuobushi Factory to discover the intricate process and craftsmanship involved in drying bonito and gain insights into the tradition of creating Honkarebushi.

Extreme Cold Storage Experience

Participants will experience the chilling thrill of entering a -50°C freezer for 10 minutes, underscoring the critical role of temperature control in maintaining bonito's quality and flavor.

Hands-on Chabushi Making

In a 30-minute interactive session, participants learn to shave dried bonito, create traditional Chabushi, and savor the taste of their culinary creation.

Closing Remarks

This immersive tour deepens understanding of Katsuobushi's pivotal role in Japanese cuisine and fosters a personal appreciation for its traditional culinary practices.

What's Included

• Experience fees 

• Beverages 

Essentials to Know Before Booking

• Confirmation within three working days.

• The voucher will sent within four working days.

• Activity conducted exclusively in Japanese.

• Inform the reservation if you speak Japanese and provide a local mobile phone number.

• Specify your preferred workshop time (available between 09:00 - 15:00).

• Arrive at Yamakawa Seafood Processing Association at least 10 minutes before your booked time.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation 11+ days before departure: Fully refundable (100% refund)

Cancellation 8-10 days before departure: 20% charge

Cancellation 2-7 days before departure: 30% charge

Cancellation 1 day before departure: 40% charge

Cancellation on the day of the activity: Non-refundable (0% refund)

Meeting Point

Location: Yamakawa Suisan Kakougyou Kumiai

Address: 9 Yamakawashineicho, Ibusuki City, Kagoshima Prefecture

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the tour conducted in English?

Ans: No, the tour is exclusively conducted in Japanese. However, if you are proficient in Japanese, you can request to participate and provide a local mobile phone number.

Q: What is the recommended time for the workshop?

Ans: The workshop is available between 09:00 - 15:00. Please specify your preferred time when making a reservation.

Q: Is there a dress code for the tour?

Ans: There is no specific dress code, but wearing comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes is recommended.

Q: Can I cancel my booking?

Ans: You can cancel your booking up to 11 days before departure for a full refund. However, cancellation fees are charged closer to the tour date. Please refer to the cancellation policy for more details.

Q: What is Chabushi?

Ans: Chabushi is a traditional Japanese dish made by shaving dried bonito (Katsuobushi) and topping it on warm rice with soy sauce and other seasonings. You will have the opportunity to create your own Chabushi during this tour.

Q: Is transportation included in the tour?

A: No, the tour does not include transportation to the meeting point. Participants are responsible for arranging their transportation to Yamakawa Seafood Processing Association in Ibusuki City. However, if you need assistance with transportation, please let us know during the reservation process.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

A: There are no specific age restrictions for this tour, but it is recommended that participants be at least eight years old for safety reasons and to participate fully in the workshop.

Related Read: Beyond Sushi: Exploring the Diversity of Japanese Cuisine