An introduction to 5 factory tours across Kyushu. The facilities can be visited free of charge or at low cost, and some offer plans that include tastings and souvenirs.
At the Ajinomoto Kyushu Plant, one of Kyushu’s popular factory tours, visitors can sample amino acids for a limited time in the tour room, and the shop also sells original merchandise. Tours at the new facility are scheduled to resume in October, and admission is free. Reservations are required at least 4 days in advance.
At Hiyoko Honpo Yoshinodo’s Honami Plant, visitors can tour the Hiyoko production line, sample freshly made products and purchase souvenirs at the shop. The tour is free, and telephone reservations are required at least 1 week in advance.
At HAKUHAKU, the Hakata Food and Culture Museum, visitors can tour the mentaiko production process, and café menus and hands-on activities are also available. Admission is ¥300 for junior high school students and older, while elementary school students and younger enter free of charge. Tours are available for groups of 1 or more, and no advance application is required.
At Ishii Food’s Karatsu Plant, visitors can tour the meatball production process and sample freshly made meatballs after the tour. Admission is free, and reservations are required at least 3 days in advance.
Kadono Dagashiya Fujibanbi showcases the production process for kokuto donut bars, and visitors can freely watch the work from the tour passage. Admission is free. Factory tours are unavailable on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, and reservations are not required, although groups must make reservations by telephone.