#Japan #Tokyo #Pop-Up Shop #JR East #Hokuriku Sake

Celebrate Local Flavors: Hokuriku Sake and Sides Pop-Up Shop

Overview of the Event
The long-anticipated Pop-Up Shop, part of the regional revitalization initiative "Jinomono Lover", returns for its 12th iteration, offering a unique opportunity to discover and purchase 30 exquisite local sake varieties from Toyama, Ishikawa, and Fukui. From November 14 to December 25, sake enthusiasts and newcomers can indulge in tastings and enjoy thoughtfully paired side dishes, ensuring a culinary adventure.

Event Dates and Locations

• - JR Nippori Station: November 14 (Fri) - 25 (Tue)

Merchandise only
Location: Inside the North Ticket Gate
Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM (weekends until 8:30 PM, last day closes at 8 PM)

• - JR Takanawa Gateway Station: November 28 (Fri) - December 25 (Thu)

Merchandise, Dining & Tourism Promotion
Location: Event Space “Machiai”
Hours: 11 AM to 8 PM (Fridays until 9 PM, first day opens at 12 PM)

Theme for 2023: Sake, Side Dishes & Travel
This year’s event revolves around the connected themes of sake, side dishes, and travel, providing a comprehensive experience that highlights the diverse flavors of Hokuriku. Visitors can taste various types of sake and explore the culinary traditions that accompany them.

Special Activities at the Takanawa Gateway Station

• - Sake x Travel Matching Lottery: A unique chance to win great experiences related to both sake and travel.
• - Sake Pairings: Attendees can find ideal pairings woven together through the region’s signature dishes, underlining the allure of both the beverages and the culinary offerings.

Featured Local Sake

Attendees will discover an impressive selection of local sake produced in each of the three prefectures, including standout brands from major breweries:

• - Toyama Prefecture:

- Kuramoto Masakazu’s Yamazaki Nishiki Junmai - A balanced, delicious sake ideal for everyday meals.
- Tamayasu's ECHOES - A sweet, wine-like flavor that captivates the palate.

• - Ishikawa Prefecture:

- Matsunami's Oeyama GO Junmai Daiginjyo - A sake that expresses strength and continuity.
- Sougen’s Noto no Kuni Junmai - Featuring a refined taste and smooth finish.

• - Fukui Prefecture:

- Ippongi’s Junmai Daiginjyo - Known for its elegant clarity and rich flavors.
- Kokuryu's Ginjo - A popular sake revered for its aromatic character.

Side Dishes to Elevate Your Experience

Each participating brewery will also collaborate with local snack producers to provide a variety of side dishes that enhance the sake tasting experience. Expect fresh seafood, rice-based snacks, and a selection of traditional sweets, reflecting the culinary heritage of Hokuriku.

A Journey Through North Japan

This event goes beyond just tasting; it is designed to introduce participants to the beauty and culture of the Hokuriku region. Each bottle comes with stories of its origin, urging attendees to plan future travels to experience the land where their favorite sake is made.

• - Journey Matching Lottery: Participants can enter a capsule toy lottery for a chance to win travel vouchers and bottles of sake, fostering further exploration of Japan's sake culture.

New Shops Opening at Ecute Omiya

In addition, there will be new shops opening at Ecute Omiya, providing even more goodies for visitors. Look out for the Fleuriste Bon Marche opening on December 1 and the re-opening of AP by American Pharmacy on December 18, completing the shopping experience alongside the sake discovery.

This event is a must-visit for all sake fans and offers a unique chance to delve deeper into the rich ideologies surrounding Japanese sake culture while enjoying a taste of the diverse regional cuisines of Hokuriku. Be part of this flavorful journey and take home not just fine sake but unforgettable memories.