Revitalizing Ofunato: Support Exhibition and Sale for Fire Recovery

In a heartfelt community effort, Gensei North Japan Fisheries Co., Ltd. will participate in the "Ofunato City Large-scale Forest Fire Recovery Support Exhibition and Sale" on May 9 and 10 at Iwate Galaxy Plaza. This event not only aims to showcase and sell local products, but it also serves as a vital platform for raising awareness and garnering support for recovery efforts from the devastating forest fire that struck Ofunato City earlier this year.

The catastrophic fire, which occurred in February, had profound impacts on the local economy and livelihood. Gensei faced significant losses, including the destruction of resource storage facilities and seawater intake pumps, which led to the near-total loss of approximately 2.5 million cultivated abalones. The damage is estimated at around 500 million to 600 million yen, deeply affecting the local abalone farming industry.

The exhibition and sale will feature several unique products, including the standout "Abalone Jewel Box," which is a canned product made from Iwate's prized "Sanriku Hisui Abalone." This canned delicacy is crafted to ensure that every part of the abalone is utilized - specifically, the exceptionally cultivated abalone raised entirely on land, which is quite rare in the world. Each can presents the abalone in an inviting diamond-cut style, making it easy and delicious for consumers to enjoy. However, due to the recent fire, shipments have ceased, and the next production cycle won’t occur until the abalone reaches market size in approximately three years.

In collaboration with the local artisans from "iriser -awase-" in Minamisoma, another area affected by the 2011 earthquake, we are introducing the "Sanriku Hisui Abalone × iriser -awase-" collection. This jewelry line incorporates shells from the very abalones lost in the fire, turning tragedy into hope through inventive craftsmanship. The collection will include earrings, necklaces, and other accessories, adding a meaningful twist to locally-inspired fashion.

In addition to product sales, we will also feature a crowdfunding support box for ongoing disaster recovery efforts. The funds collected through this initiative will be allocated towards essential repairs, including wastewater processing, restoration of burned pumps, and reconstruction of facilities to help restart abalone farming processes.

Our commitment is unwavering - we aspire to bring the pride of Ofunato's abalone back to tables across the region as we collectively step forward toward recovery.

Event Details

- Date and Time: May 9 (Friday) 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM, May 10 (Saturday) 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Location: Iwate Galaxy Plaza, 1st Floor, Nankai Tokyo Building, 5-15-1 Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo 104-0061
- Organizer: Ofunato Chamber of Commerce
- Co-organizers: Ofunato Tourism and Local Products Association
- Supported by: Iwate Prefecture, Iwate Prefectural Office in Tokyo, Ofunato City, Tokai Shimbun Co., Ltd.

Featured Products

Abalone Jewel Box

- Price: 1,570 yen (excluding tax)
- Varieties include:

- Butter sauté with mushrooms
- White wine stew with young corn
- Mexican-style stew with chickpeas

The "Abalone Jewel Box" is a result of a collaborative development with the Eastern Food Association and Time Canning Co., Ltd. It invites consumers to enjoy high-quality abalone delicacies easily by opening a beautifully packed can filled with the stunning ingredients showcasing that it resembles a treasure box. Ideal for gifting or as a special treat for any occasion.

Sanriku Hisui Abalone × iriser -awase-

- A unique jewelry collection for those who wish to wear a piece of the recovery journey. Each jewelry item embodies the transformative spirit of rebirth and resilience, marrying glass and abalone shell in brilliant designs, creating something unique with everlasting shine.

Crowdfunding Project Summary

- Title: Overcoming Two Disasters - Challenge for the Revitalization of Sanriku Hisui Abalone
- URL: Crowdfunding Project Link
- Target Amount: 50 million yen
- Funding Period: March 26, 2025, 9:00 AM to June 24, 2025, 11:59 PM
- Fund Uses: Expenses related to the reconstruction of the land-based abalone farming business, including wastewater treatment, equipment repairs, and preparation for restarting farming.
- Format: All-in format

Though the goal may not be reached, every contribution makes a significant impact on recovery efforts.

About Gensei North Japan Fisheries Co., Ltd.

Based in Sanriku Town, Ofunato City, Iwate Prefecture, Gensei North Japan Fisheries specializes in fully land-based abalone farming. Founded about 40 years ago, they have successfully established sustainable abalone farming techniques across three generations, promoting the "Sanriku Hisui Abalone" brand known for its thick, tender, and delicious qualities. Abalone production spans 2.5 to 4 years, from breeding adult shells to ready-for-market sizes. Their operation efficiently pumps up subterranean seawater into above-ground tanks for year-round direct shipment of fresh abalone.