Sake Brands
in Tochigi

"Sanran" is the traditional main brand of Tonoike Shuzo Ten, maintained since its founding in 1937. The name embodies the brewer's wish for the sake to be "brilliant and beautiful, shining like a glow." Using clear groundwater originating from the snowmelt of the Nikko Mountains and carefully selected sake rice, it is brewed with care while inheriting the traditional techniques of the Nanbu brewmasters. Its flavor is truly worthy of being called an "orthodox local sake," characterized by a gentle aroma and a full spread of rice umami that disappears with a clean finish. A regular winner of gold medals at the National New Sake Competition, it has also received high praise in international competitions in recent years. It has established an immovable status as a famous sake that brilliantly illuminates the local town of Mashiko, Japan, and the world.

"Sohomare" is the flagship brand representing Tochigi Prefecture, continuing since the brewery's founding in 1872. The name embodies the brewer's noble wish to be a "proud sake for all people." The most significant feature of Sohomare lies in the traditional "Kimoto brewing" revived in 2001. Under the banner of "Kimoto Renaissance," they pursue a method that spares no effort in cultivating natural lactic acid bacteria. This achieves an elegant, firm taste where multi-layered umami and crisp acidity are in perfect harmony. Using the finest Yamada Nishiki and locally grown Gohyaku-mangoku rice, its quality is highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally. While its sophisticated profile can be enjoyed chilled, serving it warm causes the deep umami and acidity derived from Kimoto to bloom further, enhancing the flavor of food to the ultimate degree. It is a brand that follows the true path of sake, fusing historical dignity with modern sensibility.

"Tentaka" is the flagship brand of Tentaka Shuzo and a synonym for dry sake. Aiming for the duality of "sharp crispness" and "pleasant umami," it has been brewed since the founding in 1914 through refined tradition and the latest brewing technology. The brand is highly regarded for its strong commitment to "Organic Certification," symbolizing sake production that pursues environmental consideration and food safety. From Junmai Daiginjo to casual sake, it consistently maintains a backbone of "powerful dry sake that enhances meals," characterized by a refreshing sensation that straightens one's posture with every sip. Having won numerous gold awards in domestic and international competitions, it has made its name known worldwide as a pioneer of Japanese organic sake. It is an exquisite product representing Tochigi, possessing a nobility like a hawk soaring in the sky—powerful yet refined.

"Sakuragawa" is the traditional primary brand of Tsuji Zenbei Shoten, passed down since its founding in 1754 by Tsuji Zenbei, an Omi merchant drawn to the waters of Moka. Named after the Sakuragawa River that flows through Moka City, it has been cherished as a local point of pride for over 270 years. Brewed with high-quality groundwater from the Kinugawa system and locally grown rice, it is carefully crafted using traditional methods inherited from skilled Nanbu brewmasters. Its greatest feature is its "consistent flavor" that pairs perfectly with food. With a restrained, gentle aroma and soft rice umami, its balanced profile ensures it never tires the palate while enhancing daily meals. While honoring tradition, it benefits from the precise quality improvements of 16th-generation brewmaster Hiroyuki Tsuji. The absolute quality of this sake is backed by the remarkable feat of winning 10 consecutive gold medals at the National New Sake Competition. It is a legendary sake that serves as the origin of Moka's local brewing, pulsing with 270 years of history.

"Houou Biden" is the flagship brand of Kobayashi Shuzo and a highly popular brand that commands an overwhelming presence in the modern sake scene. Its name originates from the former village name "Mita-mura," where the brewery is located, and the "Houou" (Phoenix) that soars majestically. It is characterized by a unique, brilliant aroma and fresh flavor born from mastering traditional Ginjo brewing. The greatest appeal is the rich, fruity Ginjo aroma reminiscent of Muscat, white peach, and European pear. The fine, elegant sweetness that spreads the moment it enters the mouth and the high-quality acidity that supports it create an exquisite harmony, leading to a beautiful, translucent finish. Through thorough quality control and passionate brewing, it has gained immense support not only from sake fans but also from wine lovers and the younger generation. Known as a "hard-to-obtain brand" due to supply being very limited relative to demand, Houou Biden is a refined gem where traditional skills and modern sensibilities crystallize.

"Shichisui" is the flagship brand of Toraya Honten and a notable brand that continues to innovate in the contemporary sake scene. The name is derived from "Nanamizu," a collective term for the seven famous waters passed down in Utsunomiya since ancient times. Since its birth in the 2000s as a new line centered on pure rice sake, it quickly gained popularity. It has proven its world-class quality by receiving the Sake of the Year award, the highest honor, at the "Oriental Sake Awards," one of the largest competitions in Asia. With the concept of "exciting sake," the brewery pursues brewing that maximizes the energy, umami, and aroma of sake rice. The drinkable quality that harmonizes bright, fresh flavors with the umami of rice symbolizes Toraya Honten's challenge—to protect tradition while never fearing evolution.

"Kaika" is the flagship brand of Daiichi Shuzo, named in 1875 after the "Bunmei Kaika" (Civilization and Enlightenment) of the Meiji era, with the wish to "bloom flowers of joy in people's lives." It is a premier sake representing Tochigi, brewed with master craftsmanship using high-quality rice grown by the brewery's own staff and the pure groundwater of Sano, a region famous for its pristine waters. The defining characteristics are a fruity, brilliant aroma and a refined flavor that maximizes the natural umami of the rice. Having won major awards like the "Grand Gold Medal" at numerous domestic and international competitions, it is a masterpiece that combines the balance of a traditional food-pairing sake with modern elegance—truly embodying the "blooming" (Kaika) of Japanese sake.

"Sawahime" is the flagship brand embodying the "Real Local Sake Declaration" of Inoue Seikichi Shoten. Taking "Sawa" (stream) from the local place name Shirasawa and "Hime" (princess) as a symbol of being loved, it was named with the aim of achieving an elegant flavor reminiscent of a clear stream. Deeply committed to Tochigi's sake rice, water, and local yeast, and brewed using 100% Tochigi-grown rice, this sake boasts world-recognized quality, having twice won the top prize at the International Wine Challenge (IWC). It features an exquisite balance of plump rice umami and a crisp finish, making it an ultimate local sake where the soul of Tochigi resides.

"Hokkan" is the signature brand of Hokkan Shuzo, named with the goal of being the "Superior Sake that serves as the Crown (Kan) of Northern Kanto." It boasts stable and high quality by merging traditional skills inherited since the Tenpo era with modern, precise data management. Using groundwater nurtured by Tochigi's rich nature and high-quality rice, its greatest features are a calm, elegant aroma and a full-bodied flavor where the umami of the rice is perfectly harmonized. The crisp finish makes it an excellent food-pairing sake, complementing a wide range of cuisines from Japanese to Western and Chinese. From daily evening drinks to special occasions, it is a leading brand of Tochigi that remains close to people's lives and continues to provide enjoyment.

"Daina" is the flagship brand of Kikunori Shuzo, named with respect for the "Great Land of Nasu." With the goal of being the "ultimate food-pairing sake," it is characterized by a transparent quality that maximizes the flavor of dishes and never grows tiring to drink. Using local sake rice contract-grown at the foot of the Nasu Highlands and brewed with mineral-rich groundwater, its flavor elegantly harmonizes precise acidity with the mellow umami of rice. Enjoyable across a wide range of temperatures from chilled to warm, it is highly acclaimed for its pairing not only with Japanese cuisine but also with French, Italian, and other Western dishes. It is a sophisticated modern standard of sake, bringing the terroir of Tochigi to the world.

"Shikisakura" is the flagship brand of Utsunomiya Shuzo and one of the famous sakes representing Tochigi, nurtured by more than 150 years of history. The name originated from a poem composed by the first-generation owner, embodying the wish to be a sake that is as beautiful as cherry blossoms throughout the four seasons and stays close to people's hearts. Using groundwater from the Kinugawa River (soft water) containing melted snow from the Nikko Mountains, it achieves a smooth and refined mouthfeel. Focusing on local sake rice and unique yeast from Tochigi Prefecture, it is characterized by an slightly dry yet mellow and full-bodied flavor. Its quality is internationally recognized, having been served in JAL's international First Class. It is a prestigious sake that can be enjoyed both for its crispness when chilled and its full-bodied umami when warmed.

"Matsu no Kotobuki" is the flagship brand of Matsui Shuzoten. It is brewed with great affection using unique ultra-soft water sourced from a spring just 100 meters from the brewery. The most prominent feature is the smooth and pure mouthfeel, free of any harshness, thanks to the ultra-soft water, offering a gentle drinkability as if it is seeping into the body. Despite its gentleness, it possesses a solid core of umami and the resilience to withstand long-term aging. It is a top-tier local sake that graces both delicate Japanese cuisine and modern dining tables.

"Juichi Masamune" is the iconic brand of Morito Shuzo. Its name originates from the brewery's initial trade name "Juichiya," reflecting their belief in creating the ultimate balanced sake that is neither too sweet nor too dry, and never bores the drinker. The greatest appeal lies in their lineup using "Flower Yeast," which is rare in Japan. One can enjoy unique personalities like the brilliant aroma from cherry blossom yeast and the fresh acidity from apple yeast, as if the blessings of nature are sealed in the bottle. The pure water of Shojin-zawa, local rice, and traditional techniques harmonize with the flower yeast, creating an approachable yet profound flavor that richly colors everyday meals.

"Azumarikishi" is the flagship brand symbolizing the history and tradition of Shimazaki Shuzo. Since its founding in 1849, it has been loved in the local Nasukarasuyama. The name originated from the second-generation owner Kumakichi's deep love for sumo wrestling, with "Azuma" representing the Kanto region and "Rikishi" representing the spirit of protecting tradition with strength. Azumarikishi, sent out to the world after "Cave Aging," the synonym of Shimazaki Shuzo, boasts outstanding perfection, harmonizing clear water originating from Mt. Nasu with the mellow umami born through aging. It features a dignified taste and a rich finish that lets you feel the climate of Nasukarasuyama. It is one of the famous sakes representing Tochigi, a fusion of the skills of brewers cultivated through long history and the unique personality of cave aging.

"Chuai" is the flagship brand of Tomikawa Shuzo, brewed with "loyalty" (Chu) and "affection" (Ai), as its name suggests. It features a delicate and soft mouthfeel unique to the touch of a female Toji. It is carefully brewed using strictly selected high-quality sake rice and underflow water from the Shojinzawa spring. The Junmai Ginjo class sake, in particular, is charming with its fruity, gorgeous aroma and transparent sweetness. Combining a gentleness that snuggles up to the drinker's heart with a core of strength, it is a heartwarming food-pairing sake that goes excellently with meals.

"Wakasakari" is the crystallization of the traditions that Nishibori Shuzo has protected. As the name suggests, it symbolizes youthful vitality and the peak season when sake is at its most delicious, having been cherished in local Oyama for generations. Based on honest brewing using traditional methods, it features a highly balanced flavor where a mellow aroma and a crisp finish are harmonized. It is an authentic sake packed with the brewery's technology and passion, richly coloring the daily dining table.

"Kashiwazakari" is a historic brand representing Katayama Shuzo, founded in 1880. This sake, born from the fusion of Niigata techniques passed down through generations of brewmasters and Nikko's clear famous water "Senryosui," possesses a flavor that can be called a "treasure of Nikko." The most significant feature of Kashiwazakari is its strong commitment to "Genshu" (undiluted sake). While normal sake is adjusted for alcohol content by adding water, Kashiwazakari's Genshu is bottled exactly as it is pressed from the mash without any dilution. As a result, it has a high alcohol content of 18–20%, allowing you to directly enjoy the powerful umami and rich, supreme body of the rice. By pressing slowly over time using traditional "Fune" (presses), it achieves a smooth throat-feel and a taste free of impurities despite being a Genshu. Praised by sake fans nationwide as "unforgettable once tasted," it is the flagship brand embodying the soul of Katayama Shuzo.

"Tsuji Zenbei" is a premium all-Junmai brand launched by 16th-generation owner-brewmaster Hiroyuki Tsuji to pursue the ideal "Junmai sake for the modern era." By crowning the brand with the name of the founder who began brewing in Moka in 1754, it expresses profound respect for 270 years of tradition and a determined resolve to pioneer a new age. While the traditional flagship "Sakuragawa" pursues stability as a food-pairing sake, "Tsuji Zenbei" is conceptualized to maximize the powerful umami of rice and a deep, mellow flavor. In particular, the Junmai Ginjo, crafted with Tochigi-grown rice and specially selected sake rice, has garnered enthusiastic support from craft sake fans nationwide for its combination of sharp transparency and rich body. The essence of Toji Tsuji's skills—which have earned an astounding 10 consecutive gold medals at the National New Sake Competition—is poured into this all-Junmai lineup. It is an innovative brand that symbolizes the "present" and "future" of Tsuji Zenbei Shoten, merging the sincere craftsmanship of its Omi merchant roots with contemporary sensibility.

"Kiku" is an iconic flagship brand of Toraya Honten, a traditional brand that conveys the long history of the brewery to the present. It is highly evaluated internationally, including receiving gold medals at the International Wine Challenge (IWC). The chrysanthemum (Kiku) is an emblem representing the Japanese Imperial Family and has been loved as a noble and pure flower. This brand embodies the desire to aim for an elegant taste that follows the royal road of sake. Using the historic famous water "Nijinoi" that continues to spring in the heart of Utsunomiya, it achieves a refined and dignified sake quality. It is a drink that symbolizes the quality and pride of Toraya Honten, loved by sake fans not only in Tochigi Prefecture but all over the world.

"Tomikawa" is another flagship brand bearing the brewery's name. It was named with the wish to be "rich and prosperous, like a beautiful river." Brewed using rice and water nurtured by the land of Yaita and traditional techniques, this sake features a harmony of crisp finish and the natural umami of rice. It can be enjoyed at a wide range of temperatures, from chilled to hot sake, and is a light and dry yet flavorful sake that you will never tire of drinking, perfect for daily evening drinks.

"Sugata" is a cult-favorite brand led by Iinuma Meijo, born from a pursuit to deliver sake in its "born as-is state" (umareta mama no sugata). The name is derived from the "Sugatami no Ike" (Mirror Pond) linked to the local Yao Bikuni legend, while also symbolizing the pure, untouched state of the sake—freshly pressed, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and undiluted. The hallmark of this brand is the combination of overwhelming fruitiness and transparency, achieved through the labor-intensive "all box-koji" method. Upon the first sip, a juicy, floral aroma reminiscent of apples and peaches spreads across the palate, accompanied by a rich sweetness. These elements are brilliantly tied together by a refined acidity and a strikingly clean finish, creating perfect harmony. By using different sake rice varieties for each season to express their unique characters in a "raw" state, the Sugata series encapsulates Iinuma Meijo's technique and passion in every drop. With a rarity stemming from small-batch production and a vivid personality that stays with you, this is a modern-classic masterpiece from Tochigi that continues to captivate sake enthusiasts nationwide.

"Suginamiki" is the flagship brand of Iinuma Meijo, founded in 1811, embodying both history and elegance. The name is derived from the "Nikko Suginamiki" (Cedar Avenue of Nikko), the world's longest tree-lined avenue that stretches from the Nishikata area where the brewery is located toward Nikko. It expresses deep respect for the region's grand history and rich natural surroundings. The brewery uses pure groundwater from the Otonagawa River system, originating from Mount Nantai in the Nikko mountain range. High-quality local sake rice such as Yamada Nishiki and Yumesasara are polished entirely in-house and brewed using traditional winter-brewing techniques rooted in Niigata heritage. Its flavor is characterized by a gentle, calm aroma, a full-bodied taste where the rice's umami spreads softly, and a crisp, dry finish. This sake, a fusion of Niigata's "Tanrei" (crisp) technique and Tochigi's flavorful terroir, pairs beautifully with any dish and never tires the palate. It is a distinguished sake that represents the face of Tochigi, cherished alongside the region's long history.