Yamasa Enterprises is founded in downtown Los Angeles by Otoichi Kawana, a visionary entrepreneur who immigrated from Japan in pursuit of the American dream.
1938 Cont.
Otoichi begins handcrafting traditional fishcakes—Kamaboko, Chikuwa, and Tenpura—introducing authentic Japanese flavors to a new American audience.
1954
At just 21 years old, Frank Kawana succeeds his father and expands the business while carrying forward its founding values.
1956
Yamasa continues to grow alongside the Japanese American community, redefining its reach in Los Angeles and beyond.
1978
Yamasa makes history as the first manufacturer of imitation crab in the United States, marking a pivotal moment of innovation.
Today
Yamasa produces a diverse portfolio of fishcake brands—including Yamasa, Yamasakura, Ono, Chinmi, and Uncle Frank’s—from FDA HACCP-certified facilities.
Each product is thoughtfully crafted to meet the evolving tastes of our customers while staying true to our heritage.
