Hijiri brewery: A Sake Brewery Steeped in History and Tradition
Nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Ikaho Onsen in Shibukawa City, Gunma Prefecture, Hijiri brewery stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Japanese sake brewing. Founded in 1841, the brewery has meticulously crafted sake for over 180 years, passing down its expertise and traditions through eight generations.
The story of Hijiri brewery began in the late Edo period when the first generation ventured into sake brewing alongside his silk and pawnbroker businesses. Drawing upon the pristine waters of the nearby Mt. Akagi and the verdant natural surroundings, he laid the foundation for the brewery's enduring legacy.
Situated at the foot of the majestic Mt. Akagi, Hijiri brewery's location is a harmonious blend of nature's bounty and a unique microclimate. The harsh winter winds, known as "karakkaze," while formidable, bring with them a purity of air that is essential for sake brewing. The brewery's proximity to the revered Kiso Sansha Shrine, linked to the legendary warrior Minamoto no Yoshinaka, adds a touch of historical mystique.
A New Era: Embracing Innovation and Tradition
Seven years ago, Hijiri brewery made a bold transition, replacing seasonal southern Toji brewers with in-house Toji. This shift marked a new era, one where tradition met innovation. Guided by the youthful energy of its new team, the brewery embraced the "kanzukuri" method of cold winter brewing, producing a range of high-quality sakes, including the flagship brand "Hijiri" and the popular "Kanto no Hana."
The "Hijiri" brand, distributed primarily in the Kanto region, embodies the brewery's pursuit of clear, crisp sake with a harmonious balance of sweetness and acidity. Its name, inspired by the poetry, reflects the purity of the sake itself.
In September 2020, the seventh-generation head brewer stepped down, passing the reins to his son, Kenji Imai, and the young and talented Kanato Yoshimoto. Under their leadership, Hijiri brewery has experienced a meteoric rise, garnering ten gold medals at the National New Sake Appraisal Competition, including seven consecutive wins.
A Rising Star in the Sake World
Hijiri brewery's dedication to quality and innovation has earned it a place among Japan's most sought-after sake breweries. Its selection as an exhibitor at SAKE CRAFT WEEK, Japan's premier sake event, further cements its status as a rising star in the world of sake.
With its deep-rooted heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, and embrace of innovation, Hijiri Shuzo stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of Japanese sake. Its sakes are a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition, nature's bounty, and the passion of its brewers.
