Nakamura Shuzo

Nakamura Shuzo, founded in 1804, is a historic brewery located in Ushinuma, Akiruno City, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Akigawa River. For over 200 years, the Nakamura family has been dedicated to crafting sake that harmonizes with its environment. Their process relies on pure subterranean water from the Tama mountain system, filtered over centuries through the Chichibu Palaeozoic strata and drawn from 150 meters underground. This water is exceptionally low in iron and ideally soft, forming the backbone of their sake's refined flavor.
By combining traditional Edo-period storehouses with modern climate-controlled facilities kept below 10°C year-round, they ensure consistent, high-quality production across all seasons. Their flagship brand, 'Chiyo-tsuru' (Thousand-Year Crane), symbolizes longevity and grace, while their 'Takao-san' brand celebrates the region's iconic peak. Their signature style focuses on a crisp, light profile that beautifully highlights the natural umami of the rice.