Sake Brands
in Kanagawa

Sakarimasu is the flagship brand of Koganei Shuzo, representing the finest local sake of Atsugi. The name, combining 'Sakaru' (to flourish) and 'Masu' (from the old shop name), embodies the hope for ever-increasing prosperity. Brewed using famous subterranean water from the East Tanzawa range and premium sake rice through traditional Nanbu Toji techniques, its defining characteristics are a remarkably clean mouthfeel and a brilliant finish. As an ideal food-pairing sake, it offers a gentle umami that grows with every sip. Its exceptional quality is recognized worldwide, with five consecutive Gold Medals at the National New Sake Appraisal and winning the #1 Gold in the Junmai Daiginjo category at SAKE COMPETITION 2025. Sakarimasu continues to evolve while honoring its deep roots in the Tanzawa region.

Matsumidori is the timeless flagship brand that has supported the long history of Nakazawa Shuzo. Brewed using pure water flowing from the Tanzawa mountains and meticulously handcrafted, it is defined by a richness that brings out the maximum flavor of the rice. Named after the lush greenery of Matsuda Town (Matsu meaning pine, Midori meaning green), it boasts exceptional reliability as a food-pairing sake and has been cherished locally for generations. In recent years, it has incorporated innovative additions such as series using the rare 'S.tokyo' yeast. Matsumidori is the essential identity of the brewery, where fresh challenges live atop a foundation of deep-rooted tradition.

Setoichi is a flagship brand that embodies the innovative spirit of Seto Shuzoten, designed to complement modern diverse lifestyles. With the concept of 'Sake that surprises with every sip,' it offers a wide range of flavor profiles tailored to different drinking scenes and moods by combining various yeasts and brewing techniques. Its refined taste and stylish presentation have earned it exceptionally high international acclaim, including consecutive Platinum awards at 'Kura Master' in France. This drop, born from a fusion of creative sensibility free from tradition and solid craftsmanship, vividly illustrates new possibilities for Japanese sake.

Afuri, named after the alias of Mt. Oyama, 'Afuriyama,' is a global brand that opens a new chapter for Kikkawa Jozo. Its label features calligraphy by the high priest of the Oyama Afuri Shrine, symbolizing the blessings of the sacred mountain. Its defining feature is the unique 'minerality' derived from natural hard water with a hardness of 150. Recognized globally, it has won consecutive top awards, including Platinum at 'Kura Master' in France. Pursuing a refined aroma, beautiful texture, and perfect harmony with cuisine, Afuri aims for the pinnacle of modern Japanese sake.

Shirasasatsuzumi is the iconic brand of Kanei Shuzoten, named after the Shirasasa Inari Shrine, the guardian deity of Hadano City. The elegant name likens the sound of white bamboo leaves rustling in the wind to the beat of a 'tsuzumi' (hand drum), reflecting deep reverence for nature. Using the celebrated Hadano Basin spring water (one of Japan's 100 Best Waters) as its source, it is characterized by an incredibly mellow mouthfeel and a refreshing finish reminiscent of a cool breeze from the Tanzawa foothills. This flavor, a perfect harmony of local culture and famous water, is the pride of Hadano and has been healing the hearts of many for years.

Hakoneyama is the prestigious flagship brand representing the pride of Inoue Shuzo, crafted with a global vision in mind. Trademarked during the Meiji era as part of an early effort to export Japanese sake to Europe—a rare ambition at the time—it has long served as an ambassador conveying the grandeur of Hakone to the world. Its defining characteristics are the deep body and brilliant crispness brought forth by the pure hard water of the Sakawa River. Through traditional handcrafted methods, the brewery maximizes the inherent power of the rice, creating a dignified sake with an elegant aroma and a robust structure. With a history of numerous awards at domestic and international competitions, Hakoneyama continues to be cherished by sake enthusiasts worldwide as a superlative companion to Hakone's culinary excellence.

Ashigarigo is a brand that expresses the lush terroir of the Ashigara region and the beautiful seasonal colors that bloom there. Its most prominent feature is the use of 'flower yeast' collected from hydrangeas (ajisai)—the symbolic flower of Kaisei Town. The elegant and brilliant aroma derived from the flower yeast harmonizes perfectly with the gentle yet firm umami woven by the rice of the Ashigara Plain. Transforming the regional identity into the form of sake, this brand is a concentrated essence of Ashigara's terroir. Filled with deep local love and respect for nature, it offers a refreshing and passionate flavor profile.

Soga no Homare (The Pride of Soga) is the flagship brand representing the long history of Ishii Jozo. Its name is derived from the Soga area of Odawara, the setting of the epic 'Revenge of the Soga Brothers' from the Kamakura period. Brewed using the secret 'Mochi Yondan Shikomi' technique passed down through generations, it offers a full-bodied umami and robust depth derived from glutinous rice that fills the palate. Far from being just sweet, it is characterized by a firm core of strength and a dignified aftertaste. Crafted with carefully selected rice and Sakawa River water, its flavor is the very pride (homare) of the region—a superlative food-pairing sake cherished for enriching any dining table.

Izumibashi is a spirited all-Junmai brand that captures the vibrant landscape of Ebina's rice fields in a single bottle. Centered on the iconic 'Red Dragonfly' (Akatonbo) series, the brand leverages an integrated cultivation-to-brewing system to maximize the inherent potential of the local rice. Its defining characteristics are the powerful, rich acidity derived from the traditional 'Kimoto' method and a pleasant aftertaste that gracefully cleanses the palate. Highly acclaimed both in Japan and abroad, Izumibashi is a consummate food-pairing sake that reveals different facets of its character at various temperatures, from chilled to hot. Every sip is an expression of gratitude to the fertile earth of Ebina and an honest, flavorful testament to the future of Japanese agriculture.

Kikuyu is the traditional brand that has supported the foundation of Kikkawa Jozo, cherished by the people of Isehara since its inception. Specifically crafted using mineral-rich hard water from the sacred Mt. Oyama and meticulously handmade by artisans, it features a sturdy, resilient flavor profile unique to hard water, with a crisp finish. Its appeal lies in an enduring deliciousness perfect for daily evening drinks. Preserving the pride of being Isehara's sole brewery and walking alongside regional history, Kikuyu is a community-rooted sake that offers a sense of comfort and security akin to home.

Sagaminada is the flagship brand of Kubota Shuzo, born from the abundant nature of Tsukui and the pure spring waters of the Tanzawa mountain range. With a brand concept of 'balanced food sake that highlights the umami of rice,' it offers a refined experience with a gentle ginjo aroma, moderate acidity, and a crisp, clean finish. A hallmark of the brand is its meticulous brewing process, applying premium Ginjo techniques across all grades to achieve a 'timeless elegance' rather than overt flashiness. The lineup includes a series dedicated to locally grown Sagamihara rice, delivering a structured and honest flavor that perfectly captures the blessing of the Tanzawa mountains.

Iwao-no-izumi (The Rock Spring) is the iconic brand of Shimizu Shuzo, the oldest brewery in Kanagawa. Named after the eighth-generation head, 'Iwao,' the brand symbolizes a sake that possesses both the strength of immovable rock and the clarity of a pristine spring. Brewed by skilled Nanbu Toji using pure subterranean water from the Tanzawa mountains, it is characterized by a sophisticated dry profile that retains a rich, underlying rice flavor. With a legacy of excellence confirmed by Gold Medals at the National New Sake Appraisal and Monde Selection, Iwao-no-izumi offers a dignified experience that allows drinkers to savor the natural bounty of the Tsukui region in every elegant sip.

Tabisake is a unique brand of local sake designed to be enjoyed alongside travel memories. With the strict philosophy of 'only available at the destination,' each bottle captures the atmosphere of the land and the passion of the local brewers. Across diverse areas of Kanagawa, from the urban charm of Yokohama to the coastal vibes of Shonan and the historic springs of Hakone, the brand offers a lineup brewed with pure local water and carefully selected rice using traditional techniques. Whether enjoyed during a journey or as a reward at the end of a trip, this sake serves as a 'travel companion' that enriches life through the joy of regional discovery.

Shoryu Hourai is the brand that embodies the traditional brewing soul of Oya Takashi Shuzo. By actively employing ancient methods like 'Kimoto' and 'Yamahai,' the brewery extracts a robust, heavy umami and a layered complexity inherent in the rice. The true essence of this brand shines when served warm; it is exceptionally well-suited for 'Kan-agari' (flavor blossoming when heated). With a sturdy and resilient structure, the sake has the longevity to withstand years of aging, developing a mellow and mature character over time. This is a classic, honest brand that commands deep loyalty from connoisseurs seeking 'authentic sake' with a firm core, independent of modern trends.

Zaluso Hourai is the modern pillar of Oya Takashi Shuzo, designed to explore new and accessible ways to enjoy sake. With a concept centered on 'sake that accompanies daily life and the changing seasons,' the brewery intentionally releases selected batches while they are young to preserve their vibrant acidity and brisk, clean finish. The brand is known for its catchy and diverse variety, including sweet-and-sour profiles using white koji, low-alcohol undiluted sake, and fine-textured sparkling versions. Built on the superlative technical skill that won the Chief Prize at the Nanbu Toji Appraisal, Zaluso Hourai offers a contemporary sensibility that appeals to both newcomers and food enthusiasts seeking versatile pairings for modern cuisine.

Shun-ya is a special brand that carries the name of Shunsuke Oya, the 8th generation head of Oya Takashi Shuzo, serving as a crystallization of the brewery's passion and technical mastery. This brand most intensely reflects the brewery's spirit of 100% Junmai production, using methods that maximize the individual character of carefully selected rice. Unbound by rigid specifications, its lineup represents the flavors that the brewer 'most wants to express right now.' Coexisting with both delicacy and strength, the sake possesses a warmth that makes the presence of the maker felt, turning everyday dining into a moment of affordable luxury. It is a masterpiece imbued with the pride of the head brewer himself.

Yokohama no Hoshi (The Star of Yokohama) was a brand formerly brewed by Aida Shuzoten in Odawara, carrying an evocative and celebratory name. The name, which seemingly praises the brilliance of the metropolitan city of Yokohama, reflected the hopes and aspirations of the people of that era. Following the closure of the brewery, it has become a 'lost brand,' but its romantic name continues to hold a place in the history of Kanagawa's local sake.

Kagyu (Fire Oxen) was a unique brand formerly produced by Aida Shuzoten. Its powerful name, evoking the 'Kagyu-no-kei' (Fire Ox Charge)—a legendary deceptive military tactic from the Sengoku period—conveys a raw and passionate artisanal spirit. Brewed in the historical crossroads of Odawara, this sake was once favored by local connoisseurs. Although no longer in production, its name stands as a precious testament to the challenging and innovative spirit of the now-lost brewery.

Soun is the proud brand of Aida Shuzoten, named after Hojo Soun, the Sengoku daimyo who ruled Odawara. As a symbol of the historic castle town, it was cherished locally for its dignified flavor and reliable quality. It truly embodied the essence of 'Odawara Local Sake,' though production has since ended following the brewery's closure. Its majestic name remains etched in the memories of the local community, alongside the brilliant history of Odawara itself.

Chiebukuro (Bag of Wisdom) was a brand formerly produced by Aida Shuzoten with a friendly and approachable name. The name, which implies 'wisdom' or 'knowledgeable advice,' may have embodied the hope for the sake to be a companion for sharing life's insights and pleasant times. Once enjoyed as a source of daily comfort in Odawara, the brand has vanished following the brewery's closure. It remains a brand that evokes the warmth of a bygone era.

Maisugata (Dancing Silhouette) was a brand formerly brewed by Maisugata Shuzo in Minami-ashigara, aiming for an elegant and refined flavor as graceful as a dance. Combining the pure waters that nourish the Ashigara Plain with locally grown rice, it once added a touch of splendor to regional celebrations and social gatherings. Although production has ceased following the brewery's closure, the elegant resonance of its name remains vivid in the memories of local sake fans, alongside images of the historic brewery set against the backdrop of the Tanzawa mountains.

Hachiryu-hai is a traditional brand that carries forward the pride and over 300-year history of Moriyama Shuzo. Derived from ancient Chinese lore, its name signifies 'sake so delicious that even bees are spellbound by it.' Long cherished in the mountainous regions of Aichi Prefecture, the essence of this sake remains unchanged following the brewery's relocation to Odawara, as it is now brewed under meticulous temperature management. Its defining characteristic is a dry profile that combines deep body with a sharp, clean finish. Pursuing a universal deliciousness that transcends time while serving as a perfect complement to food, Hachiryu-hai is a brand that truly embodies the spirit of 'learning from the old to create the new.'

HINEMOS is an innovative brand from Moriyama Shuzo that views sake through the unique lens of 'time.' Offering a diverse lineup tailored to specific hours—from 7:00 PM to 2:00 AM—the brand designs each bottle to match the atmosphere and dining scenes of those moments. Whether it's the sparkling 'SHICHIJI' for an evening toast or the Nigori 'HACHIJI' for the bridge into dinner, every bottle is a masterpiece crafted with peak brewing techniques. With its sophisticated, modern design, HINEMOS is perfect for special gifts or personal rewards. Embodying the concept 'Stay by your side at any given moment,' this brand transcends traditional boundaries, transforming everyday occurrences into unforgettable experiences and leading the way into the future of sake.

Tensei is the soul-imbued flagship brand of Kumazawa Shuzo. Its name is derived from the poetic Chinese phrase 'Uka Tensei Unpasho,' describing the brilliant blue sky glimpsed through a break in the clouds after rain—the ideal color of the legendary Ru ware ceramics. True to its namesake, the sake pursues a flavor that is as noble as fine porcelain and as clear as a cloudless sky. Designed as the 'ultimate food-pairing sake,' it is crafted to heighten the flavors of Shonan's bountiful seafood. It features a silky-smooth entry and a sharp, brilliant finish that vanishes gracefully from the palate. Like a refreshing breeze from the Shonan coast, Tensei is a modern, sophisticated brand defined by its stunning transparency.

Kumazawa, carrying the family name of the brewery, is a brand that symbolizes the unwavering confidence and pride of the house. Spanning 150 years since its founding in the early Meiji period, it represents a masterful fusion of traditional methods passed down in Shonan and the skills of modern brewers. As the only brewery in the region, they prioritize being 'loved by locals,' crafting sake where the rich umami of the rice takes center stage while maintaining a clean finish that never tires the palate. It is the very identity of the brewery—a brand that feels both strong and gentle, reflecting their commitment to carrying the weight of tradition into the future.