Leadership Timeline
Kinnosuke Kusakari establishes Kusakari Noodle Workshop in Hirosaki, Aomori, beginning the production and sale of dry noodles.
Second-generation Hiromasa Kusakari takes over and expands the business across the Tsugaru region.
Begins manufacturing and supplying dry noodles under the JA Aomori brand, significantly expanding distribution.
Reorganized as Takasago Noodles Co., Ltd. The company name is derived from a popular dry noodle product of the time. A new dry noodle factory is built in Hirosaki.
Production expands to include fresh and boiled noodles. Launches hand-crafted style fresh ramen.
Third-generation Nobunao Kusakari becomes President.
Establishes a collaborative food development initiative. Relocates to Hirakawa City and installs advanced noodle production systems, including Long-Life (LL) and semi-fresh noodle lines.
Develops multi-layer noodles incorporating apple fiber and files a manufacturing patent.
Receives national food industry awards. Recognized as a venture enterprise. Begins industry-government-academia collaboration to develop high-hydration noodle technology. Successfully establishes and patents the super high-hydration noodle method.
Launches the "Aomori Premium Ingredients Series" (shijimi, dried fish, garlic ramen). Receives multiple national awards for food safety and product development. Employees achieve national certification as noodle technicians.
Develops new products through cross-industry collaboration. Introduces eco-friendly initiatives, including recycling waste oil as fuel. Begins development of rice flour noodles in response to changing market needs.
Begins overseas business development through JETRO. Launches the iconic "Aomori Miso Curry Milk Ramen," which becomes a widely recognized regional product.
Develops rice flour noodles for school meal programs.
Fourth-generation Yasumasa Kusakari becomes President.
Opens Tokyo office to strengthen domestic and international business development.
With over a century of heritage, advanced technology, and a commitment to innovation, Takasago continues to share the authentic taste of Aomori with the world.