A Visit to Sawada Shuzo
The Vice President introduced us to the history of this region and the philosophy of Sawada Shuzo.
In the Chita Peninsula, the roots of Japanese industry run deep. This is the land where TOYOTA’s automated looms were born—a technology that evolved from the intricate weaving of CHITA COTTON. It is a region defined by a relentless spirit of “Monozukuri” (the art of making things).
Recently, I visited Sawada Shuzo, a brewery that has preserved the soulful traditions of Sake making since the late Edo period.
Their sake is brewed using the spring water found in this region.
1. The Logic of Tradition
While many modern breweries have shifted to stainless steel, Sawada Shuzo continues to use traditional wooden tools, including massive CEDAR VATS (OKE) for steaming rice.
1. The Logic of Tradition
While many modern breweries have shifted to stainless steel, Sawada Shuzo continues to use traditional wooden tools, including massive CEDAR VATS (OKE) for steaming rice.
As someone with a background in automotive engineering interpretation, I see the functional beauty in these tools. Wood acts as a natural thermal buffer, creating the perfect biological environment for microbes to thrive. This is not just nostalgia; it is a sophisticated “design philosophy” for flavor.
2. A Culture Shaped by Industry
Chita is the heart of Japan’s automotive world. Because the local culture is centered around safety and precision, the people here developed a preference for high-quality Sake that satisfies even in small quantities. Their signature label, HAKUROU, reflects this—a bold, rich flavor with a clean, dignified finish that respects the local lifestyle.
3. The Legacy of Innovation
The history here is one of resilience. When the Shogunate fell, the tools of Sake brewing were repurposed to create fermented seasonings like vinegar and soy sauce, giving birth to global giants like Mizkan. This spirit of innovation—turning “leftover” sake lees into the red vinegar that defined Edo-style sushi—is the same DNA that led to the creation of SONY by the Morita family, who also hailed from this brewing heritage.
The koji is transferred to wooden boxes to be cultivated.
After the tour, it’s time for a sake tasting. You can enjoy five different types of sake, each served in a distinct sake cup (ochoko).
4. Hakurou: To Age with Grace
The name HAKUROU (White/Elder) carries a profound meaning: the pursuit of purity (turning brown rice white) and the wisdom of aging gracefully. This resonates deeply with my practice of Ikebana, where we honor the entire life cycle of a plant, from the strength of its youth to the quiet beauty of its fading.
Both the sake brewed at Sawada Shuzo and the Tokoname-yaki ochoko cups are available for purchase.
＼ Get the latest news ／
