Culinary Journey “Sasurai Kaido” Season 1: Shaping Food Culture in Japan

The venture known as “Sasurai Kaido” is an innovative culinary project initiated by Sasurai Diner, led by Takeo Kitamura. Beginning its crowdfunding campaign from May 16 to June 5, 2025, it seeks to establish a transformative framework for chefs who travel and work effectively while immersing themselves in local cultures.

The overarching goal of this initiative is to link chefs across Japan with the local communities where they travel. By creating a system where chefs can select their preferred destinations, prepare delectable dishes, and engage with locals, this project is not just about food; it’s an evolving journey that integrates culinary arts into the very fabric of travel.

With an initial funding goal of 300,000 yen, which was reached promptly by May 22, the next target has been set at 530,000 yen. This achievement illustrates the enthusiasm surrounding this project and its potential to foster community connections through gastronomy.

The concept is simple yet powerful: travelling chefs will craft their own unique meals using regional ingredients that they source during their journeys. This process allows for meaningful interactions between chefs, producers, and local residents, thereby highlighting the unique allure of each location. Throughout this initiative, participants will have opportunities to partake in experiences that reveal the rich tapestry of local food culture, plunging them into a realm where the act of eating becomes a delightful exploration of community and connection.

Since around 2022, Kitamura has packed 50 spices into his backpack, embarking on travels across the country. He has been dedicated to sourcing seasonal ingredients from local suppliers and crafting dishes that resonate with the local taste while simultaneously promoting community interaction through food. These encounters yield valuable learning experiences, opening doors to the potential of creating and sharing “delicious” cultural and culinary innovations together.

Program Overview

Title: Culinary Journey “Sasurai Kaido” Season 1: Shaping Food Culture in Japan
Purpose: To expand the community of nomadic chefs, creating a system that facilitates easier travel and cultural exchange, enriching local food culture.
Crowdfunding Period: May 16, 2025 – June 5, 2025
Return Event Duration: June 8, 2025 – June 22, 2025
Goal Amount: 300,000 yen (Reaching the initial goal on May 22 and setting a next goal of 530,000 yen)
Locations: Tokyo, Atami, Mishima, Fuji, Toyohashi, Kyoto (Six locations with seven events).
Website: Sasurai Diner Project

Return Gift Offerings

For those interested in experiencing the culinary journey from home, an offering named “Sasurai Diner Select Box” provides a carefully curated selection of regional ingredients valued at 5,000 yen, accompanied by unique spices from Sasurai Diner—the essence of the flavors encountered during the journey.

Experiential Return Events:
1. Departure Event in Sumida, Tokyo (June 8, 2025): Kick-off ceremony featuring Chef Shankal Noguchi of Tokyo Spice, highlighting a collaborative effort to create a spice-infused culinary experience.
2. Culinary Pop-Up in Atami (June 13, 2025): Experience community-oriented culinary delights at MARUYA Terrace, a cherished location for the Sasurai Diner.
3. Workshop in Atami (June 14, 2025): Participate in fish market tours and dried fish workshops, showcasing local producers.
4. Collaboration with 6curry in Mishima (June 17, 2025): Enjoy dishes inspired by local spices and shared culinary stories.
5. Gastronomic Experience in Fuji (June 18, 2025): Savor delicious gluten-free offerings along with innovative product development experiences.
6. Culinary Exploration Event in Toyohashi (June 21, 2025): Create dishes using locally sourced ingredients while exploring the rich flavors of the region.
7. Culinary Discovery Event in Kyoto (June 22, 2025): Celebrate the concluding event near Nishiki Market, where participants will engage in tastings and discussions around a variety of spices and food items.

Company Overview

Company Name: Sasurai Diner, Inc.
CEO: Takeo Kitamura
Capital: 500,000 JPY (As of October 31, 2024)
Established: October 23, 2024
Location: 4-6-12 Minatomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan
Website: www.sasurai-diner.com

Final Thoughts

As Takeo Kitamura eloquently states, this initiative invites participants to rediscover the essence of food while embarking on a unique journey. By joining this project, people not only satisfy their hunger but also their souls through the immersive experiences of shared meals and cultural exchanges. The vision of cultivating lasting connections and vibrant community interactions through food is not just an aspiration but a vibrant reality awaiting to unfold on this path.