Kikkoman: The Global Icon of Soy Sauce

Kikkoman is more than just a brand—it’s a symbol of Japanese culinary tradition and global food culture. With a history spanning over three centuries, Kikkoman has become the world’s most recognizable soy sauce producer. Whether you’re enjoying sushi in Tokyo, stir-fry in San Francisco, or noodles in Berlin, there’s a good chance the soy sauce on the table is Kikkoman.

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A Legacy Born in Japan

Kikkoman's roots trace back to 17th-century Japan. The company was established in 1917 through the merger of eight family-owned soy sauce breweries in Noda, near Tokyo, but its heritage goes even deeper—reaching back to the 1600s. The founding Mogi and Takanashi families had been brewing soy sauce for generations.

The name “Kikkoman” itself has deep symbolism: “kikko” means tortoise shell (representing longevity in Japanese culture), and “man” means ten thousand. Together, they suggest “ten thousand years of prosperity.”

The Art of Natural Brewing

What sets Kikkoman apart is its traditional natural brewing method, or honjozo in Japanese. This involves fermenting soybeans, wheat, water, and salt using koji mold—a process that takes several months. The result is a complex, umami-rich soy sauce with over 300 aroma components, offering a balance of saltiness, sweetness, sourness, bitterness, and savory depth.

Kikkoman’s signature product, the naturally brewed soy sauce, is often referred to as Koikuchi shoyu—a dark, all-purpose soy sauce that represents around 80% of soy sauce consumption in Japan.

Global Reach, Local Touch

Kikkoman is not only Japan’s most famous soy sauce brand—it’s also a major global player. In the 1970s, Kikkoman established its first overseas production facility in Wisconsin, USA, becoming the first Japanese soy sauce maker to brew outside of Japan. This decision helped Kikkoman adapt to international tastes while preserving its traditional techniques.

Today, Kikkoman has production and distribution centers in more than 100 countries, with major facilities in the U.S., Europe, Singapore, China, and the Netherlands. Despite its global expansion, all Kikkoman soy sauces maintain the same high standard and natural brewing process.

Beyond Soy Sauce

Although best known for its soy sauce, Kikkoman has diversified into a wide range of sauces, seasonings, and food products. These include:

• Tamari gluten-free soy sauce
• Teriyaki sauces
• Ponzu (citrus soy sauce)
• Miso soup
• Asian cooking kits and marinades

The brand also collaborates with chefs worldwide, promoting authentic Asian cuisine while encouraging innovation in the kitchen.

Commitment to Quality and Sustainability

Kikkoman’s success is also tied to its commitment to quality and sustainability. The company rigorously controls raw ingredients and uses environmentally friendly manufacturing methods. In recent years, Kikkoman has invested in green energy and reduced waste in its production lines.

Their motto, “Seasoning Your Life,” reflects the company’s broader mission: to enrich everyday meals with flavor, culture, and care.