In 1905, what began as a family shop in Little Tokyo inspired the remarkable evolution of a manufacturing company rooted in craftsmanship and tradition. For over a century, this legacy has been dedicated to delivering authentic Japanese quality.
Today, Nanka Seimen remains a proud family business based in Southern California, serving customers across the United States, Mexico, and Europe. For more than 70 years, the company has specialized in premium Skins and Wrappers, crafted with authentic ingredients and time-honored Japanese techniques.
We proudly bring the true taste of Japan to our customers, upholding our tradition and quality to the highest standard.
In 1905, Masakichi Tokunaga and his wife moved from Japan to Los Angeles to rebuild their lives in America. With one of the first imported Japanese production machines, they opened an authentic restaurant in Little Tokyo, introducing traditional Japanese craftsmanship and flavors to Southern California. What began as a small family operation quickly grew into a trusted neighborhood shop, and eventually, a thriving factory.
In 1939, following the Attack on Pearl Harbor, the Tokunaga family—like many Japanese Americans—was forcibly interned. Before leaving, Masakichi entrusted the factory to Keiichiro Sayano, a close friend and employee, who carefully preserved the equipment.
After the war, as the community worked to rebuild from profound loss, Keiichiro Sayano reopened the factory as a symbol of resilience and continuity. He expanded the product line to include fresh offerings and skins/wrappers, responding to the evolving needs of customers while honoring the company’s roots.
In 1975, Keiichiro Sayano retired and passed the family business to his son, Shoichi Sayano, a University of California, Los Angeles graduate and former McDonnell Douglas aerothermodynamics engineer.
While scaling traditional Japanese craftsmanship for larger production presented a very different challenge from aerospace design, his deep commitment to kazoku (family) ultimately led Shoichi back to continue the legacy.
Left: Shoichi Sayano, Right: Gary Kawaguchi
In 2016, after much thought and reflection, the time came for Shoichi Sayano to pass on his legacy. Without a direct successor in his family, he entrusted the business to a lifelong friend, Gary Kawaguchi, someone he had known and respected for over 50 years. Their connection ran deep—Shoichi had once been Gary’s Boy Scout leader—reflecting a longstanding bond built on trust and shared values.
Under Gary’s leadership, and through his company Upper Crust Enterprises, the legacy continued to grow. With more than 35 years of experience producing authentic Japanese panko and tempura batter mixes in Los Angeles, Upper Crust brought both expertise and a deep understanding of the community. Together, they upheld a shared commitment to kazoku (family) within the workplace, ensuring that tradition and quality remained uncompromised.
In 2024, this legacy entered a new chapter through its integration into JSL Foods, Inc., further strengthening its foundation for the future. With expanded resources and a continued respect for its heritage, the company remains dedicated to crafting premium skins and wrappers with authentic ingredients and time-honored Japanese techniques.
Looking ahead, we proudly carry this legacy forward—committed to delivering tradition, quality, and craftsmanship for generations to come.