Yamashita Honki Shichimi Wins Top Honor
In a remarkable achievement, Yamashita Honki Shichimi, a flagship product from Garden Co., Ltd., has garnered the prestigious Grand Prize at the 95th Japan Food Selection. This award recognizes excellence in food and drink products, with the selection process overseen by the Japan Food Analyst Association. Garden Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, is led by President Masanori Kawashima and is known for its commitment to quality and innovation in the culinary space.
The Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
Yamashita Honki Shichimi is not just a seasoning; it represents a fusion of high-quality ingredients and years of culinary expertise. Created in collaboration with the renowned Nagano-based chili pepper manufacturer, Yawata-ya Iso-goro, this unique blend features a base of Bird’s Eye chili, combined with fragrant spices like sansho, ginger, and wasabi. The result is a spice mix with a powerful, lingering heat that stands out in the market.
The development of this product was not without its challenges. It underwent numerous iterations to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and heat, culminating in a one-of-a-kind blend known for its authenticity and depth.
Reasons for Winning
Several factors contributed to Yamashita Honki Shichimi's success in the Japan Food Selection:
- - Quality of Heat: The spice blend is known for its high-quality heat, which provides a pleasant degree of stimulation.
- - Aromatic Complexity: The combination of yuzu, sansho, and ginger creates a harmonious blend of aromas, enhancing the overall experience.
- - Collaborative Reliability: The collaboration with Yawata-ya Iso-goro adds credibility to the product, leveraging their expertise in chili cultivation.
- - Intense Spiciness: This blend is especially appealing to spice enthusiasts, offering a bold punch that resonates well.
- - Luxurious Packaging: Its black and gold packaging exudes a sense of premium quality and presence on store shelves.
- - Versatile Pairing: The seasoning complements udon noodles beautifully, enhancing the flavor of various dishes.
Product Overview
Product Name: Yamashita Honki Shichimi
Retail Locations: Available at all Yamashita Honki Udon outlets
Price: 908 JPY (including tax: 980 JPY)
About Japan Food Selection
Japan Food Selection is an initiative established by the Japan Food Analyst Association in 2013. It evaluates and certifies food products based on more than 100 stringent criteria covering taste, manufacturing methods, design, and more. Over 23,000 food analyst qualified personnel participate in the precise evaluation process, ensuring that only the best products receive recognition.
For details, visit:
Japan Food Selection
About Yamashita Honki Udon
Founded in 2012 by Interviewman Yamashita, Yamashita Honki Udon is dedicated to the craft of Sanuki udon. The restaurant, initially opened near Meguro Station, emphasizes using quality wheat and making noodles in-house. Their broth is crafted from a base of kombu and katsuobushi, accompanied by meticulously sourced soy sauce.
During the evening, patrons can also enjoy a selection of alcoholic beverages, providing a warm atmosphere to unwind. With a growing presence in Kanto, they now operate 23 locations nationwide, with plans for further expansion on the horizon.
List of Locations
- - Hokkaido: Yamashita Honki Udon COCONO SUSUKINO
- - Tokyo: Multiple locations including Shibuya Namikibashi, Shibuya Center-gai, Ikebukuro, and others
- - Saitama: Locations in Omiya and more
- - Chiba: Kashiwa Modi
- - Kanagawa: Yokohama Porta, Kawasaki Ginjyugai, and others
- - Tochigi: Sano Premium Outlet
- - Ibaraki: Ami Premium Outlet
- - Ishikawa: Kanazawa Forus
- - Okayama: AEON Mall Okayama
Details available at
Yamashita Honki Udon
About Garden Co., Ltd.
Garden Co., Ltd. is dedicated to creating spaces that foster happiness, vitality, and smiles through its food and real estate businesses. Since its founding, the company has successfully turned around and revitalized over 12 businesses through a series of mergers and acquisitions.
Since entering the restaurant business in 2006, Garden has developed 12 different dining brands, including Yamashita Honki Udon and the Yokohama-style ramen restaurant ‘Ikka-kaya.’ Utilizing synergies with its real estate ventures, Garden plans to expand strategically into prime locations, continually increasing its flagship brand presence.
Company Name: Garden Co., Ltd.
Securities Code: TSE Standard Market 274A
Established: December 2015
Capital: 2,378 million JPY as of February 2025
Employees: 286 full-time, and 3,326 part-time (as of February 2025)
Number of Stores: 198 (including 28 franchise locations as of January 13, 2026)
For inquiries, please visit:
Contact Garden Co., Ltd.