The History of Sake & the Shinto Shrine

The Japanese sake's culture began over 2,000 years ago with the start of rice harvest.

Sake was a special drink served to the Gods to celebrate the harvest and has a close connection with the Shinto Shrine. Shintoism is based on appreciation; for our life, for nature, and for the harvest. Rice is especially important in the Japanese culture and every year, we pray and celebrate for a good rice harvest at the shrine. Since sake is made by rice, a good harvest means good sake. 

We still drink sake to celebrate cultural events such as New Year’s, weddings, building new houses, new businesses etc.– to wish good luck and to appreciate all that we have.