Situated along the clear-flowing Sai River, which originates in the Northern Alps, this brewery is nestled in the Zenkoji Plain—an area known for its cold climate, ideal for sake brewing. From this environment comes sake with a gentle, refined flavor that reflects the region’s natural beauty. The brewery continues to value traditional methods, devoting time and care to crafting sake by hand. This dedication results in uniquely expressive brews, infused with the warmth of tradition that still lives on today. Its two flagship labels are Shinanohikari and Sekizen. Shinanohikari, meaning “Shinano Light,” was named with the hope that it would shine as beautifully as the light of Zenkoji Temple. Sekizen, a special designation sake, symbolizes the accumulation of good deeds over time. In addition to sake, the brewery also produces wines and ciders made from a variety of local fruits, including grapes, apples, plums, and peaches. A unifying element across all of their beverages is the use of hana-kōbo (flower yeast). As the only brewery in Nagano Prefecture using this rare yeast, they have been cultivating it for over 40 years, beginning with the 8th-generation head, Motoi. Since the 9th-generation brewer, Kazuki, took over, all of their products have been brewed exclusively with flower yeast.