#Japan #Tokyo #United Arrows #Hakkaisan #Rishu Sake

Introduction

Hakkaisan and United Arrows have joined forces for their first-ever collaboration, unveiling the much-anticipated sake, "Rishu UNITED ARROWS 2025BY." Set for release on October 2, 2025, this unique product exemplifies the fusion of tradition and modernity between a renowned sake brewery and a leading fashion label. This partnership reflects a broader commitment to celebrating Japan’s rich cultural heritage through both beverage and design.

Background of the Brands

Hakkaisan, based in Niigata Prefecture and founded in 1922, is celebrated for its premium sake, particularly the famed "Hakkaisan." The brewery has built a reputation for using local resources to craft high-quality sake, sweet rice, and even craft beers, creatively blending tradition with innovation. With their mission to explore new possibilities for sake culture, their latest offering seeks to expand the appeal of traditional Japanese rice wine.

On the other hand, United Arrows, a distinguished fashion retailer established in 1989, has become synonymous with style and quality. Through creative and contemporary design, United Arrows aims to enhance everyday experiences, including how we enjoy fine beverages such as sake.

Collaborative Efforts

The collaboration was conceptualized with careful consideration of Hakkaisan's brewing techniques and a tasting of several trial brews. Both Hakkaisan's toji (master brewer) and staff worked diligently to finalize the flavor profile. The resulting sake features vibrant notes reminiscent of melon and Japanese pear, coupled with a silky texture and subtle sweetness, finished with refreshing effervescence. This sake is tailored for all palates, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers alike, especially for celebratory occasions.

Product Details

• - Name: Rishu UNITED ARROWS 2025BY (BY stands for Brewery Year)
• - Release Date: October 2, 2025
• - Brewery: Hakkaisan Co., Ltd. (Niigata)
• - Available Sizes: 360ml, 720ml
• - Ingredients: Domestic rice, domestic rice koji
• - Alcohol Content: 14.5%
• - Price: 360ml: ¥2,530; 720ml: ¥4,950 (tax included)
• - Sales Locations: Available at TABAYA United Arrows and select sake retailers. Limited availability; sales will conclude once inventory is depleted.

The label design incorporates colors resonant with United Arrows’ brand identity—depicting Fushiguro Senno and lavender-like colors inspired by the taste of the sake. The floral illustration celebrates their partnership, while the logo of United Arrows is elegantly tied onto a ribbon, demonstrating attention to detail in this collaboration.

About Rishu Brand

Launched in 2022, Rishu aims to venture into the next century for Hakkaisan, focusing on the theme of “accompanying food for an exhilarating experience.” Each year's offering varies, highlighting the dedication of skilled brewers to create unique expressions distinct from Hakkaisan's classical line. The name Rishu draws from the word "tasting sake," inviting consumers to enjoy the nuances of flavor unique to each vintage, adorned with local floral motifs on the label.

Exclusive Event

The sake will be initially showcased at the Japanese sake event “Wakatte no Yoake 2025” held on September 17-18, 2025, in Tokyo. This event aims to invigorate the sake industry through the passion of emerging brewers, making it a perfect venue for early wine enthusiasts to experience this special collaboration firsthand.

More information about the event can be found here.

Conclusion

As this collaboration unfolds, it promises to not only enrich the sake culture but also provide an innovative platform for expressing the artistry of Japan's culinary traditions. With enthusiasm from both the fashion and brewing industries, Rishu UNITED ARROWS 2025BY is set to become a beloved addition to Japanese sake offerings, merging the best of both worlds into a single, remarkable product.