Naito Brewery is a historic sake brewery that uses pure underground water from the Kiso River system, which also lends its name to their flagship label, Kiso Sansen. While the brewery carries the tradition of the renowned Echigo Toji brewing school, under the leadership of President Naito, it embraces a culture of freedom and innovation. One example of this spirit is the open recruitment of their toji (master brewer), a rare approach in the sake industry. President Naito explained that he wanted to select someone who valued craftsmanship, regardless of their brewing experience—a philosophy that reflects his broader vision for the brewery. Over the course of ten years, this commitment to creativity and quality has shaped the flavor of their sake into what it is today: a slightly sweet, yet clean and crisp profile that brings out the rich umami of the rice. The sake pairs beautifully with grilled dishes like teriyaki yellowtail or yakitori, and even complements Chinese cuisine, according to the brewery staff.