
Yamatsu Tsujita Co., located just outside Osaka, is renowned for its exceptional shichimi togarashi (Japanese seven spice blend) and stone-ground sansho. The company is led by Hiroyuki Tsujita, a passionate 4th-generation owner who takes immense pride in his craft. Committed to quality, Tsujita-san personally selects the finest ingredients, building close relationships with his suppliers and even assisting during harvest seasons. As a master blender, he understands that each ingredient shines in its peak season, meaning Yamatsu Tsujita’s shichimi togarashi reflects subtle seasonal nuances in every batch.
Tsujita-san’s dedication to his craft also led to the revival of the Takanotsume (Hawk’s Claw) chili pepper, a nearly forgotten Japanese variety. Now exclusively grown by him, this chili is celebrated for its intense aroma and heat—three times spicier than standard peppers. As the centerpiece of Yamatsu Tsujita’s shichimi togarashi, this unique chili elevates the blend, setting it apart from others.
Yamatsu Tsujita’s sansho is equally remarkable. Made from the prized Yama Asakura Sansho, it is ground using a traditional stone mill. This gentle process generates less heat than modern methods, preserving the sansho’s delicate, complex aroma for an unparalleled sensory experience.