#Japan #Organic Food #Kobuchizawa #The Garden #Alsoa

Discover a New Culinary Experience at Alsoa’s The Garden

Nestled in the rich natural landscapes of Kobuchizawa, Alsoa's employee cafeteria, "The Garden," is set to open its doors to the public on June 15, 2026. After over twenty-five years of dedication to promoting health among its employees through organic meals, this remarkable initiative aligns with Alsoa's upcoming 55th anniversary, introducing a brand that resonates with a modern lifestyle. Brand new messaging, dubbed "ARSOA Syn-Life," embodies the idea of harmonizing personal and planetary health and happiness in our daily lives.

A Commitment to Holistic Well-being

Alsoa, renowned for its cosmetics and health products, has been championing the philosophy that true beauty emerges from the health of the mind, body, and skin. The concept, dubbed 'the Three Healths Spirit', has guided the company to place a strong emphasis on food wellness. With the opening of The Garden, the aim is not only to nurture employee health but also to contribute to the local community and engage visitors to the Yatsugatake Kobuchizawa area. This unique cafeteria will serve a limited number of eight guests per day by reservation only, creating an intimate and beneficial dining experience.

The Story Behind General Opening and 'Adult Food Education'

Since relocating its headquarters from Tokyo to Kobuchizawa in Yamanashi Prefecture in 1998, Alsoa has sought to improve employee health through home-cooked meals. With the expertise of macrobiotic teacher Michio Kushi and food producer Minako Hanada, Alsoa established Japan's first authentic organic employee cafeteria. At a time when organic food concepts were not widely recognized, this pioneering effort was met with the challenge of sourcing unprocessed ingredients.

Today, amid a growing interest in organic food and safety, Alsoa recognizes the need for 'Adult Food Education'. The cafeteria serves as a venue where adults can revisit and learn crucial knowledge about proper nutrition, while experiencing meals that have been proof of improved well-being among employees. The exciting expansion to welcome public diners reflects Alsoa's commitment to provide a much-needed platform for healthy dining experiences.

Three Main Features of The Garden

1. Home-grown Seasonal Vegetables
At the heart of every meal is produce grown on Alsoa's pesticide-free organic farm, “Nature Organic Farm.” This expansive 8-hectare farm employs a naturally harmonious farming style that yields over 200 varieties of vegetables annually. The focus on nutritious and visually appealing veggies allows diners to enjoy every part safely.

2. Balance of Eastern Philosophy
Meals are crafted around Eastern concepts of balance, with meticulous consideration for ingredient selection, preparation methods, and traditional flavoring techniques that respect Yin and Yang. The principles of using the whole vegetable and growing local seasonal produce guide their culinary approach.

3. An Ever-evolving Menu
Thanks to the collaboration of culinary legends Michio Kushi and Minako Hanada, The Garden offers an original recipe collection of over 3,000 dishes. This means that even daily visitors will find unique menu offerings for at least three months.

Sample Menu Offerings

Each day, The Garden provides two types of main dishes centered around brown rice vegetarian options. One can expect a delightful assortment including:

• - Vegetable Plate: Featuring fresh spring rolls with tempura and seasonal veggies alongside Mapo Tofu made with soy meat and walnuts. This plate promotes energy from earthy, vegetarian ingredients without animal products.
• - Fish Plate: Highlights include a white fish dish accompanied by seasonal vegetables, wholesome brown rice, and a wholesome kombu and shiitake mushroom-based miso soup for a balanced meal.

Opening Details

• - Reservation Start Date: June 15, 2026 (Advance reservation required)
• - Guest Limit: Only 8 guests per day to ensure quality service
• - Price: JPY 1,650 (inclusive of tax and coffee)
• - Location: Alsoa Headquarters employee cafeteria "The Garden" (Kobuchizawa, Hokuto City, Yamanashi)
• - Reservation Method: Via the official special site The Garden
• - Access: Approximately 2 hours by car from Shinjuku IC via Chuo Expressway; 5 minutes by car from Kobuchizawa IC. Alternatively, take the Azusa limited express from JR Shinjuku to JR Kobuchizawa Station, approximately 2 hours, followed by a 7-minute taxi ride.

About Alsoa (ARSOA)

Established in 1972, Alsoa operates under the corporate principle of creating true health and happiness through harmonizing with nature. The company’s ongoing commitment to wellness reflects its evolution toward enhancing the lives of individuals and the community through thoughtful lifestyle proposals and product creation, aiming to embrace a future aligned with holistic living.

For more details, visit the Alsoa official website: Alsoa