About
When you step off at Suzukicho Station on the Keikyu Daishi Line, what spreads out before you is the Kawasaki Factory of Ajinomoto Co., Inc. This site, located in Suzukicho—named after the founder, Saburo Suzuki—has been in operation since 1914 and is the oldest factory in the Ajinomoto Group.
The factory grounds cover approximately 370,000 square meters, boasting a vast area equivalent to about eight Tokyo Domes. Here, a wide variety of products are manufactured, including “Hondashi®,” “Cook Do®,” “Knorr® Cup Soup,” and “Amino Vital®.” Notably, in October 2021, a new factory dedicated to the integrated manufacturing and packaging of soups was completed, achieving both increased productivity and reduced environmental impact. (lnews.jp)
Within the factory, there is the “Ajinomoto Group Umami Experience Center,” where visitors can learn about the history and manufacturing process of the umami seasoning “Ajinomoto®.” The exhibition space on the first floor features fascinating displays such as the evolution of packaging and advertisements from the company’s founding, as well as introductions to ingredients rich in umami. There is also a theater where visitors can experience the history of the Ajinomoto Group through 360-degree video, leaving a deep impression on those who visit. (ajinomoto.co.jp)
Factory tours offer opportunities to observe the production lines and participate in tasting experiences, allowing participants to see up close how products are made. In particular, the “Knorr®” soup course teaches how super sweet corn from Hokkaido is transformed into soup. During the tasting, visitors can savor the sweetness and rich flavor of the corn, experiencing firsthand why these products are so beloved. (ajinomoto.co.jp)
This place is not just a factory, but a site that connects the history and future of umami. Inheriting the founder’s aspirations, this location, where the latest technology and tradition are fused, conveys the importance and depth of food to its visitors. Standing quietly in the peaceful streets of Suzukicho, this factory continues to bring smiles and health to dining tables around the world every day.