Hatsusakura Shuzo Co., Ltd. is a sake brewery founded in 1866 (Keiō 2) in Katsuragi Town, Ito District, Wakayama Prefecture. The brewery began making sake to offer to the World Heritage site Niutsuhime Shrine, and ever since, it has preserved regional traditions while valuing the craftsmanship of handmade brewing. The brewery uses 100% locally grown “Amano Rice,” cultivated in a cool climate at an altitude of about 400 meters and nourished by pristine water, exclusively for its premium sake. It also draws high-quality well water from the Izumi Mountain Range as its brewing water. The toji (master brewer) and brewers, all from Wakayama, work together to carry on traditional brewing techniques. Its signature labels include Kishu Katsuragi Kawakami-zake Hatsusakura and Koyasan no Hannyatou. These sakes are known for pairing well with local cuisine and are loved as sake to be enjoyed in everyday life.