Known as one of Japan's leading "Katsuo Towns," it boasts the highest fresh bonito catch in Japan for 28 consecutive years (as of 2024). (Located near the rich fishing grounds off the Sanriku coast, fresh bonito is consistently landed using pole-and-line fishing.)
Pole-and-line caught bonito is less likely to be damaged, and because it is immediately cooled and frozen upon being caught, its freshness is exceptional. Unlike purse seine fishing, it has less internal bleeding, which enhances its unique flavor. (During the season, many boats enter the port, and hundreds of tons can be landed in a single day.)
Although the factory and homes suffered significant damage from the tsunami during the earthquake, a new factory was rebuilt in Matsuzaki Maehama, Kesennuma City, and operations resumed. Particularly, katsuo namari (lightly boiled bonito) is characterized by its tenderness and rich flavor, adding color to family dining tables.