Among the many gifts Japan has enriched the world with, nothing is a greater symbol of the country than sake.
The result of a proud brewing history of some 2,000 years, this traditional alcoholic beverage has long been the drink of
choice among Japanese, and is increasingly gathering popularity with people worldwide.
Sake is made primarily from rice, komekoji (molded rice), yeast and water of the highest purity to realize a
brewed beverage with an alcohol content of between 13-20%. Produced in regions all across Japan, sake comes in an
extensive array of flavors and aromas, and is served either warm or cold. As such, it is an ideal accompaniment to a wide
range of cuisines, both from Japan and abroad. Whether a sake connoisseur or trying it for the first time,
the delicious taste of sake is as good a reason as any to visit Japan.
Sake varieties are alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content of less |
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From the northern prefecture of Hokkaido to the southern islands of Okinawa, some 2,087 kuramoto, or breweries, produce a variety of sake which the world enjoys. Kuramoto have come to be known for their traditional architectural features of white, earthen walls and tile roofs, though modern structures are increasing in number. Just as Japan boasts a proud sake-brewing history, so do kuramoto in their own right, with some having operated for 300 years or longer. Many are family affairs, passed down from generation to generation. Under the expert guidance of a toji, a brew master, certain kuramoto brew sake year-round but it is historically seasonal, beginning in autumn and peaking in the cold months of winter, ending before the arrival of spring. Throughout Japan, Kuramoto, some of which have been designated historical landmarks, open their doors to give visitors from around the world the chance to sample their delicious sake. Some offer tours, while others house restaurants or museums exhibiting traditional sake-brewing tools and secrets. They can’t be missed — just look for a sakabayashi, a large round ball of tightly bound Japanese cedar leaves, hanging outside! |
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