#Japan #Niigata Sake #Gunma #Masayuki Kusumi #Akagiyama Sake

New Sake Label by Masayuki Kusumi

Masayuki Kusumi, the acclaimed creator of "Kodoku no Gurume" (Solitary Gourmet), has unveiled a new sake label that reflects his unique travel experiences and culinary adventures across Japan. This initiative is part of his ongoing essay series, "Kusumi Masayuki's Travel Sake", featured monthly in the sake magazine, "Gekkan Bimi", published by Meishu Center. In these essays, Kusumi shares delightful stories and memories from various local eateries he visits during his travels, capturing the essence of culinary exploration.

The inspiration for creating his sake label came from an enduring desire to design a label for a sake that resonates with his personal tastes. Reflecting on how challenging it is to produce sake, Kusumi expressed a wish to conceptualize a label that embodies his favorite flavors. This aspiration has now materialized into the distinct sake label we see today.

During his visits to numerous sake breweries, Kusumi fostered relationships with brewers and craftsmen, seeking to ensure that the sake he features would meet his high standards. He personally selected the sake, making several visits to the brewery to refine the tasting process. The sake he chose, "Akagiyama Kurakuchi", produced by Kondo Brewery in Midori City, Gunma Prefecture, enjoys immense popularity among locals.

"Akagiyama Kurakuchi" is known for its smoothness and versatility, making it an ideal complement to a variety of dishes. Its crisp and clean profile is achieved through careful brewing processes and a rice polishing ratio of 60%, akin to a premium ginjo sake. Kusumi stated, "For solitary evening drinks, this is the best choice". Whether served chilled or warm, this sake enhances the drinking experience, and the unique label designed by Kusumi adds a vivid touch.

Kusumi reflected on his lifelong dream of creating a sake label. After years of envisioning an intricate design that would sit comfortably alongside traditional sake bottles, he decided to feature one of his well-known character illustrations instead. Collaborating with Naoki Nishino, who has consistently designed his comic books, CDs, and posters, they went through numerous iterations to arrive at a simple yet striking design. His heartfelt statement captures his hopes: "I really want this sake to be well-received, given the love and effort put into it. The sake itself is delightful, not tiring to drink, with an enjoyable everyday flavor that I personally adore. I am truly happy to have had the opportunity to design this label and thank Kondo Brewery and Meishu Center for this chance".

Product Details

• - Product Name: Akagiyama Kurakuchi by Masayuki Kusumi (Limited Edition Label)
• - Volume: 720ml
• - Price: ¥2,750 (tax included)
• - Release Date: December 26, 2025, at 12:30 PM
• - Produced by: Kondo Brewery, Midori City, Gunma Prefecture
• - Sales Locations: Meishu Center store & Meishu Center online store Buy Here

Note: When purchased from the online store, please be aware there may be delays in shipping. Additionally, a limited number of 100 acrylic stands featuring the illustration will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis until they run out.

Special Offer: Sake + Acrylic Stand + T-shirt Complete Set

This exclusive limited quantity package will only be available for pre-order on the online store. Price: ¥7,700 (tax included) includes:
1. One bottle of Akagiyama Kurakuchi by Masayuki Kusumi
2. One acrylic stand featuring the illustration
3. One T-shirt with the Akagiyama Kurakuchi design

T-Shirt Details

Crafted by Kume Seiki Kogyo Co., the T-shirts are made from 100% cotton, highlighting superb craftsmanship combined with a touch of Japanese culture.

Pre-order Date: Starting December 26, 2025, at 12:30 PM
Expected Delivery: Late January 2026

Kusumi Masayuki continues to impact the cultural fabric of Japanese gastronomy and literature with his engaging narratives and creative collaborations. His legacy will surely be further enriched by this unique venture into sake branding, merging storytelling with the refined world of sake.

About Masayuki Kusumi

Kusumi Masayuki is a multifaceted talent: a manga artist, illustrator, and musician. Born on July 15, 1958, in Mitaka, Tokyo, he graduated from Hosei University, later studying under notable teachers. He debuted in 1981, co-creating long-standing manga series and winning significant accolades in the field. The adaptation of "Kodoku no Gurume" remains a cultural touchstone, connecting audiences worldwide through its translations into several languages.

For insights into his work, visit his official page.