We Are Tomodachi Autumn / Winter 2017

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27IndustryKumamoto is an area exceptionally suitable for semiconductor manufacturing, which requires a large volume of clean ultrapure water. More than 100 semiconductor-related companies, both foreign and domestic, have set up manufacturing bases here. Advanced research and development is also being conducted at the prefecture’s universities and research and testing institutes as well as in the fields of medical treatment, food, and the environment, which are heavily related to biotechnology. © HORIBA STEC, Co., Ltd.Food and DrinkIt goes without saying that Kumamoto, blessed by its water, is known for its rice. Kumamoto is also celebrated as an excellent source of Japanese shochu liquor and sake, both of which are made using rice. In particular, kuma shochu, Kumamoto’s best-known locally produced liquor, exhibits a rich flavor thanks to the clear waters of the Kuma River. © maruk / amanaimagesHot SpringsWith more than 1,300 hot spring sources, Kumamoto Prefecture is one of the most famous hot spring regions in Japan. One prominent area is Kurokawa Onsen, a hot spring district popular with tourists situated in the northeast of the prefecture. The district evokes a thoroughly Japanese atmosphere, with hot spring ryokan – Japanese-style inns – nestled alongside the gorge. The gorge itself boasts magnificent scenery, and the area received an extraordinary two stars as a hot spring area in the Michelin Green Guide Japan. © Fujiya