Celebrating KIMONOIST 2025 Winners with Kikkawa Jozo Sake

Celebrating the KIMONOIST 2025 Awards with Kikkawa Jozo's Sake

In a remarkable display of cultural celebration, Kikkawa Jozo Co., Ltd., a company under the Shimada Group based in Isehara, Kanagawa, has sponsored the KIMONOIST 2025 Awards. This year, six outstanding individuals were honored, receiving the exquisite sake "Afurikawa /// Afuri" as a commemorative gift. This special sake was tailored to fit the essence of each recipient, aligning with the spirit of the event.

What is KIMONOIST?

The KIMONOIST initiative aims to preserve and promote the appreciation of kimono as a sustainable and globally recognized fashion culture in the face of evolving societal values and aesthetics. The title of KIMONOIST is awarded to those who exemplify the new lifestyle and enjoyment of Japan's evolving traditions and culture. For more details, you can visit the official website: KIMONOIST Official Site.

The Recipients of KIMONOIST 2025

This year’s KIMONOIST 2025 awardees included:

- Chika Edanami
- Maki Ohkuro
- Erika Takarada
- Katsunori Takahashi
- Neru Nagahama
- Akiko Nishina

Each recipient was presented with a unique sake, perfectly tailored to reflect their individual images:

- Chika Edanami: "Afurikawa Sugiyama
- Maki Ohkuro: "Afurikawa Ohanasake"
- Erika Takarada: "Afurikawa Kasumi"
- Katsunori Takahashi: "Afurikawa Nari"
- Neru Nagahama: "Afurikawa Mizumoto"
- Akiko Nishina: "Afurikawa Kimoto"

Kikkawa Jozo's Commitment to Tradition and Innovation

Kikkawa Jozo's sponsorship of the KIMONOIST 2025 Awards is a reflection of its dedication to highlighting both Japanese tradition and innovation. Renowned stylist Jotaro Saito has collaborated with Kikkawa Jozo, designing various textiles and products in numerous establishments, including the bar hotel Hakone Koyama, which integrates Jotaro's designs into its hospitality services.

List of establishments featuring Jotaro Saito’s designs:

- Bar Hotel Hakone Koyama: Room wear and bed throws
- Bar & Restaurant COCONOMA: Nishijin-ori sofa coverings
- Compho Nihonbashi Store: Wall panel components
- Roppongi Hotel S: Room cushion covers
- Collaboration with Jotaro Saito at Ginza SIX featuring Kikkawa Jozo's sake and desserts.

About Jotaro Saito

Born in Kyoto into a family of dyers, Jotaro Saito is celebrated for his contributions to modern kimono design. Since debuting as a kimono designer at the young age of 27, Saito has blended traditional techniques with contemporary fashion, reinforcing kimono as an integral part of today's culture. He advocates the evolution of tradition and promotes a lifestyle that appreciates the beauty of Japanese heritage.

A Glimpse into Kikkawa Jozo

Established in 1912, Kikkawa Jozo has a rich history rooted in the foothills of the Tanzawa Mountains, previously known as Amabukiyama. Recognized for its meticulous brewing techniques guided by the philosophy of the late Dr. Shinsho Sugiyama, Kikkawa Jozo produces the prominent sake brand “Kikuyū” in Kanagawa. Despite facing challenges during the pandemic, Kikkawa Jozo joined the Shimada Group in October 2020 and rebranded their offerings, launching the "Afurikawa" label in 2021, featuring innovative sake such as low-polish, low-alcohol options, and creations using flower yeast and ancient rice.

Learn more at their official site and online shop, or follow their daily updates on Instagram: Kikkawa Jozo on Instagram.

Shimada Group Overview

Founded in 1952, Shimada Group started as a small rice shop in Setagaya. The company has since expanded into various sectors including dining, real estate, caregiving, hospitality, childcare, travel, and sake production, striving to enhance the quality of life's experiences across all stages, from transient moments to lifelong commitments.

Visit the Shimada Group official website for insights into their endeavors or check out their mini-media for more about the Shimada Group, titled "Shima Report."