Yahiko Shrine is one of the most important Shinto shrines in Japan. It is believed that over 2,500 years ago, the great-grandson of Amaterasu — the sun goddess said to be the ancestor of the emperor — visited here, and taught the locals about agriculture. The shrine is also home to two national treasures: the Shida no Otachi, Japan’s longest sword; and a 350-meter stretch of ancient cedars surrounding the shrine. Knowing this context, the fact that Yahiko Brewing Company provides the sacred sake to this shrine is truly significant. This is one of the reasons we are so excited to bring you their sake.

Mr. Oi, the brewery’s “toji” (brewmaster), shared a perspective that redefined our understanding of quality: “Sake is meant to entertain people. It should heal and soothe the heart without interfering with the food. Our brewery is dedicated to winning the Best Supporting Actor award.” 

While many breweries focus their best equipment on high-end daiginjo, Yahiko Brewing Company uses its most advanced thermal tanks for its “futsushu” (table sake) and special honjozo. Mr. Oi firmly believes that if the sake everyone can enjoy daily isn't excellent, the rest of the lineup has no foundation. This dedication to the everyday glass is why their futsushu, “Kiwami,” has held the top spot at Niigata’s famous Ponshukan tasting room for 19 consecutive months.

Founded in 1838, the brewery is historically known as a career-creating brewery. In the mid-19th century, the founder’s unique “Izumiryu” method — a technique specialized for brewing with Niigata’s soft water — was so successful that hundreds of apprentices flocked to Yahiko to learn. These brewers eventually became brewmasters at prominent labels across Japan, spreading the Izumiryu legacy. Even today, the brewery maintains a unique local tradition: instead of saying “kampai” to toast — which they avoid because it can phonetically imply “loss” — they use the ancient word “iyasaka,” meaning “eternal prosperity.” It is a powerful reminder of their deep connection to the sacred lands they have protected for generations.

We chose Yahiko Brewing Company because they embody a rare balance of technical mastery and humble hospitality. Their sake doesn't shout for attention; instead, it offers a clean, silky embrace that elevates every dish it touches. When you open a bottle of Yahiko, you aren't just drinking sake — you are partaking in a legacy of eternal prosperity born from one of Japan's most sacred landscapes.