The pride of Iwate Prefecture — a rare and precious pure-bred Berkshire black pork of exceptional character.
Ryusendo Kurobuta is a pure Berkshire breed pork raised in the mountain valleys of Iwaizumi Town, Shimohei District, Iwate Prefecture, produced with an integrated operation by Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm Co., Ltd. In a harsh natural environment where temperatures can drop as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter, the family works as one, giving devoted, individual attention to every pig they raise. Only pure British-lineage Berkshire pigs are kept, with breeding pigs registered by bloodline and superior individuals selected to maintain a consistently high quality standard. The farm has also received certification from the Japan Swine Producers Association (JPPA) as a black pig production farm — building a solid track record and trust as a producer of pure Berkshire pigs. Shipping age is approximately 210 days — raised over a longer period than standard pigs — to draw out the concentrated umami uniquely characteristic of black pork. In terms of rearing, a dedicated feed is used in the finishing stage, reducing the proportion of corn (the primary grain) and increasing the blend ratios of milo and barley. The addition of cassava further improves fat quality, while a combination of wood vinegar, mugwort powder, and seaweed suppresses the gamey off-odor typical of pork, producing a flavor that is clean and approachable. The meat quality features finely-grained, firm lean rich in umami and sweetness, with a fat that is not at all greasy — leaving a refreshingly clean finish. Sliced and enjoyed in shabu-shabu, the authentic umami and sweetness of Ryusendo Kurobuta can be experienced directly, with the ingredient’s own flavor brilliantly expressed. A rare treasure of Iwate — born of Iwaizumi’s rich nature and the farm family’s sincere, devoted rearing.
Basic Information
- Name
Ryusendo Kurobuta - Production Area
Iwaizumi Town, Shimohei District, Iwate - Management Body
Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm Co., Ltd. - Breed / Crossbreeding
Berkshire (purebred) - Meat Characteristics
Finely textured, firm lean rich in umami and natural sweetness. Fat is odor-free with a clean, refreshing finish. - Feed Characteristics
Proprietary feed with milo, barley, and cassava instead of corn; wood vinegar, dried mugwort powder, and seaweed added to suppress off-odors. - Shipping Age
210 days - Annual Production
Approx. 1,600 head/year - Signature Dish
Shabu-shabu - Certifications
Japan Swine Producers Association (JPPA) Designated Black Pig Production Farm - Related URLs
Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm Co., Ltd.
Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm Direct Shop
Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm | Pocket Marche - Source
Brand Pork Guidebook 2026 p.38
Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm Co., Ltd.
Ryusendo Kurobuta Farm Direct Shop
Pocket Marche
Last updated
June 21, 2026