#Japan #Ueda #Onza Bar #Ueda Jazz #Yoshiwara Brewing

Onza Bar's Special Appearance at Ueda Jazz Festival 2025

This August 30th and 31st, the Onza Bar, renowned for its tranquil atmosphere and exceptional selection of Japanese sake, will make a special appearance at the Ueda Jazz Festival in Nagano Prefecture. Under the sponsorship of Shimada Group and its establishments, Karuizawa Pyrénées and Auberge de Primavera, festival-goers will have the unique opportunity to enjoy the exquisite sake produced by Yoshiwara Brewing. This event promises to offer guests a delightful pairing of music and spirits for an unforgettable experience.

Leading into Ueda City: Onza Bar Sets Up Booth

The bar will operate at the Shibazaki Restaurant on the first day of the festival, transitioning to the newly established venue at the Ueda Station Plaza on the second day. Attendees will have the chance to taste Yoshiwara Brewing's outstanding choices—Afuriharu and Kikuyuu—for two consecutive days. This pop-up is a fantastic opportunity for visitors to indulge in Japanese sake that is typically served at the bar in Karuizawa.

Connections through Music: Ueda's Tourism Ambassador

Among the notable features of the festival is the participation of Sanjiro, a saxophonist and Ueda's tourism ambassador, who has hosted jazz events at local live houses for years. In 2025, with the city's collaboration, the festival is evolving into a larger-scale event at the bustling Ueda Station Plaza. Through the long-standing friendship with Shimada Group CEO Sei Nari Shimada, Ueda's cultural and social fabric is also showcased, as the group supports the festival as a proud sponsor. This initiative to strengthen community ties through music is an innovative attempt to highlight the historical and cultural allure of Ueda City.

Event Overview

• - Event Name: Shinshu Ueda Jazz Festival 2025 supported by Karuizawa Pyrénées & Primavera
• - Dates: August 30 (Saturday) & 31 (Sunday), 2025
• - Locations: August 30 at Shibazaki Restaurant (2-12-1 Chuo, Ueda City) & August 31 at Ueda Station Special Stage (by Omi Wheel)
• - Entry Fee:

- August 30 - Daytime: 1,000 JPY / Evening: 3,000 JPY (meal costs separate)
- August 31 - Free admission

Experience Tranquility at Onza Bar

The essence of Onza Bar lies in its name, meaning a return to a place of calm. Guests are encouraged to unwind while enjoying lauded Japanese sake in a serene environment. The bar, set amidst the natural beauty of Karuizawa, offers a cozy retreat away from life’s hustle. Ample seating allows guests to enjoy views of beautiful gardens, promising a serene dining experience.

Exquisite Sake Selection

At Onza Bar, enjoy the fruits of Shinshu’s natural bounty with a curated selection of sake from Yoshiwara Brewing, grounded in traditional techniques using locally sourced ingredients. The Afuriharu Series is particularly renowned for its unique characteristics, influenced by the hard water sourced from the region. Sake selections are complemented by a variety of locally inspired appetizers, enhancing the tasting experience.

About Yoshiwara Brewing

Founded in 1912, Yoshiwara Brewing is based near the sacred Danzawa Oyama, which is renowned for its rain-making traditions. Their commitment to craft has garnered accolades both domestically and internationally, capturing the hearts of sake enthusiasts worldwide with their motto: 'Sake for life’s sake.'

A Unique Fusion of Styles

Onza Bar showcases a harmonious blend of Western and Japanese aesthetics, including tasteful furnishings inspired by the area's history where Western culture and Japanese tradition converge. The venue's ambiance reflects the elegance that surrounds Karuizawa, providing guests with a unique space to unwind.

Owner's Philosophy

“Onza Bar aims to provide guests with a selection of high-quality sake, offering our surroundings’ natural beauty. Your preferences for taste are just as important to us; we encourage guests to ask about seasonal recommendations and pairings while here.” - Yuuni Nemoto, Onza Bar Owner and Sake Specialist.

Partners in Hospitality: Auberge de Primavera and Pyrénées

Both the Auberge de Primavera, established in 1996, and Pyrénées, offer guests exceptional dining experiences utilizing locally sourced produce. These venues not only accommodate but also create memorable culinary narratives immersed in the region's landscape.

Experience the beauty of Karuizawa through fine sake, music, and warm hospitality at the Ueda Jazz Festival and beyond.