BREWERY No.1
Hiraizumi HonpoNestled in the serene landscapes of Nikaho City, between Mount Chōkai and the Sea of Japan, Hiraizumi Honpo Brewery has been crafting exceptional sake since 1487. As Japan’s second-oldest brewery, its legacy spans over five centuries of resilience, artistry, and innovation.
The yamahai style, a hallmark of Hiraizumi, uses the natural fermentation of lactic acid to develop sake with extraordinary depth and complexity. The brewery’s cold winters provide the perfect conditions for this time-honored technique, resulting in a flavor profile that is bold, nuanced, and unmistakably traditional.
Over the years, Hiraizumi has weathered immense challenges—from shifting industries to the devastating earthquake of 1964—yet the Saito family, now in its 27th generation, has remained steadfast. Today, under the leadership of Masaaki Saito, the brewery balances its storied history with a forward-thinking vision. Masaaki’s mission is to craft lighter, globally inspired sakes while maintaining the heart of his family’s craft—ensuring that Hiraizumi continues to thrive for generations to come.