Are you a sake lover? Or perhaps just want to expereince it for the first time? The much-anticipated HYOGO SAKE EXPO 2023 is just around the corner. This annual event is a haven for sake lovers, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich tapestry of sake culture in Hyogo Prefecture. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s expo.

Event Details

When and Where

• Date: 4th to 9th October 2023
• Time: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Closes at 6:00 PM on the final day)
• Venue: Kobe Hankyu, 9th Floor Event Hall

Organisers and Supporters

• Organised By: Kobe Hankyu and Kobe Shimbun
• Supported By: Hyogo Prefecture, Hyogo Tourism Bureau, and other local organisations

Participating Breweries

The expo will feature 29 esteemed sake breweries from various regions within Hyogo Prefecture. Here are just a few of the brands you can expect:

• Tajima Area:
  • Kōzumi Tsuru (香住鶴株式会社)
  • Kono Tomo (此の友酒造株式会社)
  • Taji Mai (田治米合名会社)
• Harima Area:
  • Akashi Shurui Jōzō (明石酒類醸造株式会社)
  • Inami Shuzō (稲見酒造株式会社)
  • Eiigashima (江井ヶ嶋酒造株式会社)
• Tamba Area:
  • Karōba Isshu (狩場一酒造株式会社)
  • Nishiyama Shuzōjō (株式会社西山酒造場)
• Awaji Area:
  • Tominaga Shuzō (都美人酒造株式会社)
• Settsu Area:
  • Izumi Shuzō (泉酒造株式会社)
  • Ōzeki (大関株式会社)
  • Kiku-Masamune (菊正宗酒造株式会社)

Special Features

Opening Ceremony

Kick off the event with an opening ceremony and traditional “Kagami-biraki” (sake barrel opening) on October 4th at 9:45 AM.

Sake Bar

The expo will host a special sake bar where you can indulge in tasting sets from various breweries.

Food Booths

What’s sake without the perfect pairing? The expo will feature food booths offering dishes that complement the sake, enhancing your tasting experience.

Seminars

For those keen on diving deeper into the world of sake, there will be seminars, including one on October 7th that focuses on the intricacies of Hyogo’s sake (in Japanese).

Why You Should Attend

• Diverse Selection: With 29 breweries participating, you’ll have a chance to taste a wide range of sakes.
• Educational: The seminars offer a deeper understanding of sake culture and production.
• Local Cuisine: The food booths provide a culinary journey that complements the sake tasting.

The HYOGO SAKE EXPO 2023 is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of Hyogo’s rich sake culture. Whether you’re a sake novice or a seasoned aficionado, this expo offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars and prepare for an immersive sake experience!