Shiitake mushrooms are one of the key ingredients in our umami seasonings and dashi products. To deepen our understanding of this essential ingredient, we visited a shiitake farm Sonoda Kikori Farm in Mine, Yamaguchi, Japan last November where mushrooms are cultivated outdoors in the forest using traditional log-based methods.
During our visit, Mr. Sonoda, the owner of the farm guided us through the woodland cultivation sites and shared insights into the history, techniques and philosophy behind their work.
We even had the opportunity to harvest fresh shiitake mushrooms ourselves, gaining a firsthand appreciation for the patience and craftsmanship that go into each mushroom.
Here are some fun facts he shared with us:
- Shiitake grows best in komorebi (meaning soft, filtered sunlight in Japanese) and does not thrive in direct sun or deep shade.
- Growth can be stimulated by temperature shifts, sound, and vibration including tapping the logs with a hammer!
- The stem contains even more umami than the cap, so keep it attached when cooking. And for the best flavor, cook the mushroom cap-side down so the moisture (aka umami!) is drawn into the cap.
Komorebi.
Shiitake mushrooms growing on logs.
With over 40 years of experience working with wood, Mr. Sonoda and his family practices forestry guided by the motto: “Create, manage, utilize the mountains and repeat”. He manages a 15-hectare forest where both coniferous and broadleaf trees grow. Through thinning, planting and other maintenance, he helps the forest regenerate and stay healthy. Different types of wood are used sustainably:
- Cedar and cypress for timber
- Oak for shiitake cultivation
- Other species for charcoal, chips or pulp
Mr. Sonoda’s approach supports a continuous cycle of forest renewal—cut trees regrow, the forest rejuvenates, biodiversity increases and the environment improves. He also hosts events and educational activities, believing that positive experiences in the forest will inspire future generations to care for and protect nature.
Learn more about Mr. Sonoda and his farm:
Website: kikorinoen.com
Instagram: @sonoshii
Sustainable forest management Mr. Sonoda practices
Nameko mushrooms
Our cute tour guide :) His name is Light.
Fresh shiitake and nameko mushrooms we harvested ourselves! You can pack them in bags to take home or grill them on-site and enjoy them fresh.
