Leaf Business Breathes Life into Rural Community

Sashimi garnished with leaves and other vegetation. (© Nippon.com)

Kamikatsu produces over 300 varieties of garnish. (© Nippon.com)

Collecting leaves. (© Nippon.com)

Leaves are arranged attractively for shipping. (© Nippon.com)

The leaf business was the brainchild of Yokoishi Tomoji. (© Nippon.com)

From the beginning, garnish produced in the area has featured the Irodori brand. Pictured are nandina leaves. (© Nippon.com)

A producer accesses market information online. (© Nippon.com)

The company works out of a premises leased from the local government. (© Nippon.com)

All of Irodori’s eight employees come from outside the area. (© Nippon.com)

The Irodori Bridge spans the Katsuura River. (© Nippon.com)

Many flowering trees have been planted on the “colorful hills.” (© Nippon.com)

Kinof textiles are made from cryptomeria, which has excellent antibacterial properties. (© Nippon.com)