A must-see for beginners! Popular sake brands you can buy in Japan and buying guides
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Sake is a special drink that symbolizes Japanese tradition and culture.
Especially recently, its popularity has increased both domestically and internationally, and various brands have attracted attention.
However, there are so many types and brands that you are often at a loss as to which one to choose.
In this article, we will carefully select and introduce popular sake brands that can be purchased in Japan, and explain in detail the characteristics of each and how to choose them.
I will explain it in an easy-to-understand manner so that even beginners can choose with confidence, so be sure to check it out.
The appeal and trends of Japanese sake
Types and Characteristics of Japanese Sake
Sake is classified into various types depending on how it is produced and the ingredients used.
Typical ones include junmaishu, ginjoshu, and daiginjoshu.
Junmaishu is characterized by a simple flavor made with only rice and water, and you can feel the original flavor of rice.
Ginjoshu and daiginjoshu have a high rice polishing ratio and are characterized by the fact that you can enjoy a fruity and gorgeous aroma.
Furthermore, there are also unique Japanese sakes made using special manufacturing methods, such as sparkling sake and nigori sake.
The difference between junmaishu, ginjoshu, and daiginjoshu
Junmaishu is made with only rice and water, so you can feel its natural sweetness and richness.
Meanwhile, ginjoshu and daiginjoshu use specially polished rice and slowly ferment it at low temperatures to create a fruity and delicate aroma.
Daiginjoshu uses an even higher rice polishing ratio, and is characterized by its refined taste.
The appeal of sparkling sake and gori sake
As the name suggests, sparkling sake is Japanese sake that has fizzy properties like champagne.
The freshness of carbonation matches perfectly with the sweetness of rice, making it perfect for toasting on special occasions.
Nigori sake is made without completely filtering the mash (moromi), so you can enjoy its rich, creamy flavor along with its cloudy appearance.
These offer a slightly different experience from typical Japanese sake.
Top 5 Popular Japanese Sake Brands in Japan and Overseas
Japan's Top Brands
There are many wonderful sake brands in Japan.
Among them, Shinsei (Akita), Dassai (Yamaguchi), Kubota (Niigata), Hakkaisan (Niigata), and Kara (Fukui) are particularly popular.
These brands have many fans for their high quality and unique taste, and are loved all over Japan.
Brands at the top of the popularity rankings
Shinsei is known as Akita's local sake, and is characterized by its delicate flavor.
Dassai is a sake brewery in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and is particularly popular overseas, and is attractive for its fruity aroma and smooth mouthfeel.
Kubota is a sake brewery in Niigata that is characterized by its light taste and is loved by a wide range of people.
Japanese sake with a good balance of quality and price
Hakkaisan is a brewery in Niigata known for its well-balanced flavor and high quality.
Also, Bon is a Fukui brand that has excellent cost performance, and is recommended even for beginners.
Popular Japanese sake brands overseas
The popularity of Japanese sake is also growing overseas, and in particular, Dassai, Juyodai (Yamagata), Ima (Mie), Denshu (Aomori), and Hakutsuru (Hyogo) are attracting attention.
These brands are also offered in high-end restaurants overseas, and their high quality has been appreciated across borders.
Japanese sake that has received high praise from overseas
Juyodai is a brewery in Yamagata that is highly regarded around the world as a premium sake.
It is particularly popular in Asia and America, and is also known for being difficult to obtain.
Recommendations for sake that can be bought in each region
Recommended sake you can buy in Tokyo
There are many sake specialty stores and department stores in Tokyo, and they have Japanese sake from all over the country.
In particular, at department stores in Ginza and Shinjuku, you can choose while tasting famous sake from all over the country, so beginners and connoisseurs alike can enjoy it.
Also, around Tokyo Station, there is a large selection of small-bottle-sized sake that is perfect as a souvenir.
Recommended sake you can buy in Kyoto
Along with its history as an ancient city, Kyoto also has many traditional sake breweries.
The Fushimi area is lined with long-established breweries, and there are plenty of facilities where you can sample on the spot.
In particular, brands such as “Gekkeikan” and “Kizakura” are famous as Kyoto specialties.
Recommended sake you can buy in Osaka
Osaka is dotted with izakayas and bars with a rich selection of Japanese sake, mainly in the downtown areas of Umeda and Namba.
Also, you can enjoy local sake unique to Osaka. In particular, “Akika” and “Ozeki” are locally loved brands.
Where to buy sake and how to choose an online shop
How to buy at specialty stores in Japan
When buying sake in Japan, the sake section of specialty stores and department stores is the most reliable.
Specialized staff are stationed at these stores to support the selection of sake according to taste and use.
Also, there are many stores that offer tasting services, so it's easy to find one that suits your taste.
A reliable sake specialty store
Reliable sake specialty stores include “Ise Gohonten” and “Fukunotori” in Tokyo.
These stores have a selection of Japanese sake carefully selected by the owner, and you can also find rare brands.
Tips for buying sake online
When buying sake online, it's important to choose a reliable shop.
Also, check reviews and ratings, and pay attention to shipping methods and storage conditions.
An introductory guide to Japanese sake recommended for beginners
The Basics of Choosing Japanese Sake
The basic way to choose Japanese sake is to first know your own taste.
It's important to understand what flavor you prefer, whether it's sweet, dry, fruity, or rich.
For first-time users, I recommend a sweet, fruity sake that is easy to drink.
Also, by checking label information such as rice polishing ratio and alcohol content, it is easier to choose sake that suits you.
Furthermore, by knowing the characteristics of each region and brewery, it is possible to have a deeper understanding and choice.
Recommended stocks for beginners
Recommended Japanese sake for beginners include “Dassai Junmai Daiginjo 45” and “Kubota Manju.”
These brands are characterized by a fruity, pleasant mouthfeel, and a taste that even beginners can enjoy without resistance.
Furthermore, “Hakkaisan Special Honjozo” is dry yet soft to drink, and goes great with meals.
Please experience the depth and appeal of Japanese sake through these brands.
summary
Sake reflects the different flavors and cultures of each region, and is loved by many fans in Japan and abroad.
In particular, the popular sake brands that can be purchased in Japan have a lineup that will satisfy both beginners and connoisseurs.
Each brand has its own unique characteristics, and the fun of choosing one is exceptional.
Even if you are buying sake for the first time, please refer to this article and enjoy a wonderful encounter with Japanese sake.
Q & A
Q1: What are the key points to keep in mind when purchasing sake?
A1: When purchasing sake, check the information on the label carefully.
Information such as rice polishing ratio, alcohol content, and date of manufacture affects taste.
Also, storage conditions and seller reliability are important.
Q2: There are so many types of sake that I'm at a loss, but which one do you recommend for beginners?
A2: For beginners, I recommend “Dassai Junmai Daiginjo 50” and “Kubota Manju,” which are fruity and easy to drink.
These have a good balance of sweetness and acidity, and are easy to drink.
Q3: Which sake brands are popular overseas?
A3: Popular sake brands overseas include “Dassai” and “Juyodai.”
These are characterized by their fruity and aromatic flavor, and are highly regarded overseas.
A beauty experience is also recommended when visiting Japan!
Finding a spot in Japan where you can experience beauty treatments such as massages, nails, and esthetics to heal the tiredness of your trip is highly recommended as part of sightseeing.
Here are a few salons that I recommend to those who are particular about technology and quality.
Ginza/ “Mani Nail Care Ginza Store”
Open at 9 a.m.! A 5-minute walk from Ginza Station, this is a popular nail care salon where you can get rid of nail problems.
Hand and foot nails can be performed simultaneously. For those who are concerned about the burden of gel nails, we have prepared a number of “non-scraping” gel polishes, shellac, nail care, foot care, etc.
Recommended for those trying nail art for the first time, as well as those seeking special care. Men's care is also available, so it's also suitable for couples.
Ginza/ “head CONCIERGE Ginza Store”
A head spa specialty store where a group of nationally qualified specialists lead to “ultimate sleep.”
It is a technique of pressing pressure points on the head called the deep muscle approach, which leads to ultimate sleep.
Various effects can be expected, such as “relieving insomnia,” “improving shoulder stiffness,” “recovering from eye strain,” and “anti-aging.”
Enjoy the ultimate head spa that goes beyond relaxation.
Akihabara, Kanda, Awajicho/ “Esthetic & Relaxation WELLFIT” *Women Only
Kanda, Awaji, and Akihabara are also within walking distance.
“Esthetic & Relaxation WELLFIT,” a talented salon attended by professional beauticians and therapists
This treatment can also be used for pelvic correction, small face, beautiful skin, head spa, and maternity care.
It is a powerful salon that has been published in over 50 beauty magazines and specialty magazines. Please enjoy the industry's most advanced technology.
Ikebukuro/ “Mix Up!! Ikebukuro store”
This salon, located about a 10-minute walk from Ikebukuro, offers many effective facial treatments for pores, beautiful skin, lift-up, and anti-aging.
As for body treatments, you can choose between slimming or relaxation courses. You can have your whole body well cared for according to the condition of the day.
Jimbocho, Akihabara/ “CREBIA Jimbocho Store” *Women only
A slimming esthetic salon that leads to effortless results! Highly skilled and experienced staff are popular.
It is a talented salon that is a strong ally for women who want to go on a diet.
Our experienced staff will suggest a menu tailored to each person's constitution and concerns, so you can get closer to your ideal body without difficulty, without waste, and effectively.
Oshiage (Asakusa, Tokyo Skytree)/“Zipangu Esthetic Room Oshiage Store”
The salon is located close to TOKYO SKYTREE, right next to Oshiage Station.
We have prepared a variety of facial menus with an emphasis on results, and we provide treatments tailored to each customer's skin concerns.
All of our estheticians have over 10 years of extensive experience.
This beauty salon is recommended for those who are concerned about repeated lift-ups, aging care, open pores, and rough skin.
Kyoto/ “Mani Nail Care Kyoto Store”
It's a 1-minute walk from Gojo Station in Kyoto, perfect for a break between sightseeing.
A nail salon boasting careful service that has received high reviews.
This nail salon also suggests colors that are perfect for your skin tone and preferences.
Osaka/ “bellissimo”
A beauty salon focused on results, located right next to Osaka's “Fukushima” station, and staffed by knowledgeable and experienced staff.
This salon is recommended for those with scalp problems such as diet, stiff shoulders/swelling, or hair loss.
We offer a superb relaxation menu, such as slimming machines, oil massages, head spas, hair loss care, and hair growth care menus.
Since it is a treatment that is close to each person in a private room, you can receive it with peace of mind.
Osaka/ “Watanabe Acupuncture and Moxibustion Chiropractic Clinic”
If you are looking for high quality acupuncture and manipulative treatment, I recommend this salon.
We are good at improving constitution and treating pain and numbness, and we provide safe treatment for people with various problems.
Please experience our careful treatment and high technical skills.
Fukuoka/ “Nailsalon epi” *women only
A 3-minute walk from Meinohama Station on the Fukuoka Metro Airport Line, this is the perfect nail salon for those looking for trends.
The color can be changed according to the wishes of each customer, and it is popular for its good durability and beautiful finish.
You can also enjoy a movie during the treatment in the stylish store, so you can spend a relaxing time.
Enjoy fashion from your fingertips at this popular nail salon.
Written by
- WellBe Inc.
- WellBe operating company
- WellBe Inc.
- WellBe operating company
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