Portland Family Fun Guide: Yamasa Soy Sauce Factory Tour

Yamasa Soy Sauce Factory Tour (Salem, Oregon)

Who knew it would be so fun to learn how soy sauce is made? I do know factories are awesome and this international company provides a really great experience. Yamasa Soy Sauce Factory is located in South Salem, Oregon. It is best to get a small group of friends and children together to schedule a tour, which lasts about an hour and is free.

Last summer a small group of families from my son’s preschool met up for an education on soy sauce.  It wasn’t a school activity, but rather a few parents who wanted to try something new.

Starting in a comfortable conference room, we watched a video on the history of soy sauce making.  It sounds boring, but it was actually a well-made, interesting documentary. Learning about the process of how it is made built up the anticipation of being able to see the giant machines in person.

A tour guide led the way, explaining what was happening in each area. We were able to see each step up close. I only got in trouble once, when I was unaware that taking pictures in this one specific area was off limits. It was top secret stuff!

The guide taught us how the product is made during a six-month fermentation process that utilizes the finest soybeans, wheat, and sea salt.  It reminded us a lot of a beer brewery.

I am not sure if it was the enormity the place, or the fact that it took us completely away from our everyday life, but my kids had such a good time observing it all.

We were sent home with a goodie bag full of treats including a couple bottles of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce for each visitor.  That night you can bet we had rice on our dinner menu, loaded with soy sauce.  It made me want to find out what other factories are in our area!

Guest post by Christi Kurtz.

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