Due to its close proximity to both mountains and the sea, the Senshu area has nutrient-rich soil and excellent water. Because of this, the Senshu area is able to produce high-quality, seasonal vegetables throughout the year. One of the most popular vegetables is a special type of eggplant called mizunasu. It is characterized by its soft, juicy texture, and sweet skin. While most eggplants are typically not edible raw, mizunasu can be consumed without cooking. As the skin and flesh are incredibly delicate, cultivation requires close attention from farmers.

The Senshu area is also known as the birthplace of onion cultivation in Japan. During the Meiji period (1868-1912), onions were initially brought into Japan from the United States, and were carefully cultivated in Senshu before spreading to other parts of the country. Onions from Senshu are characterized by high water content, soft flesh, and a strong sweetness.

Cabbage is an integral part of local diet in Senshu, as it is a staple for local dishes such as okonomiyaki (a savory Japanese pancake made with egg, flour, and a mixture of meat and/or seafood chosen to one’s liking) and kushikatsu (a variety of deep-fried vegetables, meat, and seafood to which raw cabbage is considered as a side dish). It is also believed that cultivation of cabbage started in the Senshu area. In particular, the winter cabbage called matsunami is famed in Senshu due to its heavy density and strong sweetness. It can be enjoyed raw or cooked.

Aisai Land is spread over four hectares of land and consists of a vegetable shop, a restaurant, and facilities that make handmade products, such as bread produced from rice flour, and pickled mizunasu.

80% of fruits and vegetables sold at Aisai Land are produced in the Senshu area, with the remaining 20% (such as apples) sourced from farmers elsewhere, due to the inability to grow them locally. Around 1070 farmers provide produce for Aisai Land, and about 250 farmers can be seen selling their products on a daily basis, though what is available depends on the season. From 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., the local farmers price, package, and label their products and place them on the shelves themselves. Before the shop opens at 10 a.m., the staff do a final check on quality and presentation before the customers arrive.

The focus of Aisai Land is to support local farmers. Difficulties faced by farmers when selling produce to supermarkets include the pressure of producing “perfect” fruits and vegetables, and also meeting a quota for trade. However, farmers are encouraged at Aisai Land to sell produce with all its visual faults, provided that the quality remains high, and there are no quotas to be met. Farmers set their own price for each item and take home 85% of all earnings.

The on-site restaurant, Senshu Vegetables Buffet & Café, offers a lunch buffet which has been designed with the support of a local chef to produce dishes that takes advantage of the local ingredients. For ¥1,450 per person (including unlimited soft drink refills), visitors can indulge in over 30 different dishes using locally sourced fruits and vegetables, and support local farmers. Be sure to try recommended highlights such as the shrimp and mizunasu dish.

*Due to the influence of COVID-19, the buffet is currently unavailable. The restaurant currently offers a one-plate assortment of dishes made from local produce, as well as dishes from the original buffet menu for ¥950, including one drink.

Public transportation is limited. A large car park is available on site. Bicycle parking is available for anyone who wants to cycle to Aisai Land.

Why not also combine your trip to Aisai Land with nearby Tonboike Park? With large playgrounds and rolling green fields, it is an ideal place for families and groups of friends. For those who want to get away from the bustle of large cities, why not have a picnic using the items purchased at Aisai Land? Tonboike Park is within walking distance of Aisai Land.  

For Senshu tourist information inquiries, please contact the Senshu Japan Concierge Team.