About us
Founded in 1913, our family business traces its origins to a small general store on the island of Shodoshima, nestled in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea. Serving the local community, the shop offered rice, food products, household goods, and fuel-supporting everyday life on the island for generations.
Shodoshima is one of the ancient islands of Japan, recorded in the Kojiki of 712 AD, Japan’s oldest surviving chronicle. In the myth of Japan’s creation, the island appears as “Azuki-jima,” also known as “Ōnude-hime,” preserving a history that reaches back to the earliest written records of Japan.
The name “YAMANI” has been our family’s traditional shop name since 1913, faithfully passed down through four generations. Much like a family crest in many cultures, it stands as a symbol of our heritage, our reputation, and our enduring commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and trust.
For over a century, we have remained deeply connected to this island and its community. Thanks to the unwavering support of our customers, my parents—the third generation of our family—continue to uphold the values and traditions that have defined our business for more than 110 years.
Today, Tomoko Sato proudly carries our family’s legacy into its fourth generation. Raised in a family devoted to serving the Shodoshima community for more than a century, she continues that tradition with the same respect for authenticity, quality, and personal relationships that have defined YAMANI since 1913.
To deepen her expertise, Tomoko became both a Certified "5-Star Rice Meister" and a Certified "Rice and Palatability Appraiser".
The 5-Star Rice Meister qualification—Japan’s highest certification for rice professionals—recognizes advanced knowledge in rice selection, storage, blending, and cooking.
As a Certified Rice and Palatability Appraiser, she is trained to evaluate rice through professional sensory assessment and quality standards, helping preserve Japan’s rich rice culture and culinary heritage.
Today, she continues to share carefully selected foods, traditional craftsmanship, and the authentic spirit of Japan with customers around the world through YAMANI.
Guided by a deep respect for Japanese craftsmanship, Ryohei Sato has devoted himself to the traditional art of Japanese blades.
Having trained under a master craftsman specializing in Japanese blade sharpening in Tokyo
He restores and hand-sharpens knives using traditional whetstones and techniques refined over centuries. Every blade is treated with meticulous care, preserving its original geometry, balance, and character.
Today, Ryohei continues his apprenticeship in traditional Japanese sword polishing under Master Hitoaki Manazu in Osaka, further refining the traditional skills and discipline that have been passed down through generations.
As a member of the NBTHK (The Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords), he is committed to preserving Japan’s sword-polishing tradition and helping safeguard the craftsmanship and cultural heritage entrusted to future generations.
https://www.touken.or.jp/english/
A blade is more than a cutting tool—it is a work of craftsmanship, a reflection of its maker’s spirit, and a piece of Japanese heritage deserving of the utmost care, respect, and dedication.
During our years in Dubai UAE, we have witnessed the deep admiration and growing curiosity for Japan throughout the Middle East. From Japanese cuisine and craftsmanship to time-honored traditions, we believe there is tremendous potential for meaningful cultural exchange between our regions.
Our mission is to share the authentic spirit of Japan with the people in the world —carefully, respectfully, and wholeheartedly.
At the same time, we hope to create moments of connection and familiarity for Japanese people living far from home, offering experiences that evoke the warmth and comfort of their hometown.
Through Yamani Shodoshima, we aspire to serve as a bridge between Japan and the world—connecting people, cultures, and traditions across borders.
We look forward to meeting many wonderful people and creating new stories together.
Rooted in tradition. Connected to the world.