#Japan #Shochu #Miyazaki #Japanese Spirits #Miyazaki Prefecture

The Heritage of Authentic Shochu from Miyazaki Prefecture

For eleven consecutive years, Miyazaki Prefecture has proudly held the title of Japan's top producer of shochu, a traditional Japanese spirit. Known as the “sunshine of Japan,” this region is blessed with a warm climate, ample fresh water, fertile land, and the skills of dedicated artisans that make it an ideal environment for crafting shochu. This article will take you on a journey to explore the authentic shochu of Miyazaki.

Characteristics of Miyazaki’s Authentic Shochu

1. Abundant Natural Water

Miyazaki Prefecture is home to high-quality natural water, sourced from deep underground, nourished through years of filtration in the lush forests of the Kyushu mountains. Distilleries across the region utilize this pristine water, whether drawn from deep wells or spring-water, which serves as the very foundation of Miyazaki's authentic shochu. This pristine water not only enhances the flavor but also enriches the distillation process, producing a high-quality spirit.

2. Variety of Raw Materials

The geographical diversity of Miyazaki, which stretches from north to south, contributes to a wide range of ingredients used to craft authentic shochu. In the southern regions closer to Kagoshima, sweet potato shochu is favored. Meanwhile, the western areas, influenced by Kumamoto, prefer rice shochu. Each area cultivates its unique crops, fostering distinct flavors and aromas in shochu. For instance, in the northern parts, where sweet potato cultivation is scarce, shochu is made from ingredients such as rice, buckwheat, corn, millet, and even chestnuts.

In fact, Miyazaki is known for its pioneering spirit, as it was the first region in Japan to commercialize buckwheat shochu in 1973. Efforts to preserve the essence of ingredients ensure that the shochu produced retains the authentic flavors and aromas of its raw materials, celebrating the region's agricultural heritage.

3. Diversity of Sweet Potato Varieties

When it comes to sweet potato shochu, the dominant variety is the yellow-skinned `Koganesengan`, but there are several other delicious cultivars. These include `Joy White`, a high-starch variety used for making refined spirits, and `Murazaki Masari`, known for its rich purple color and anthocyanin content. Other sweet potato varieties such as `Tama Akane`, which is orange-skinned, and `Beniharuka`, also contribute to a colorful spectrum of flavors. The yellow varieties yield a traditional taste, while those high in starch provide fruity, citrus-like aromas, and the purple types bring forth nuances reminiscent of wine or yogurt.

Shochu Destinations in Miyazaki

Miyazaki is not only famous for its shochu but also offers an array of distillery experiences.

Kirishima Factory Garden (Kirishima City)

Visit the Kirishima Brewery to learn about the shochu-making process while enjoying the on-site craft brewery and bakery.

• - Address: 5480 Shihida, Kirishima city, Miyazaki
• - Opening Hours: Varies per facility
• - Fees: Free admission, parking available (approx. 150 vehicles), tasting available (reservation required)
• - More info: Kirishima Factory Garden

Aya Natural Brewing Museum (Aya Town)

Experience the crafting of shochu with a guided tour and tasting sessions while enjoying the local delicacies.

• - Address: 1795-1 Minamata, Aya Town, Miyazaki
• - Opening Hours: Varies per facility
• - Fees: Free admission, parking available (500 vehicles)
• - More info: Aya Natural Brewery

Shochu Dojo (Nishitoku City)

Create your unique shochu blend at this engaging mini-brewery situated within the Sakura no Sato distillery complex.

• - Address: 888 Tanden, Kitago, Nishi-toku city, Miyazaki
• - Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
• - Fees: Free admission, parking available
• - More info: Shochu Dojo

Tunnel Station (Takachiho Town)

This popular tourist spot features a long-aging warehouse of Kagura shochu in a converted tunnel, offering local products and craft goods.

• - Address: 2221-2 Shimono, Takachiho town, Miyazaki
• - Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• - Fees: Free admission, parking available
• - More info: Tunnel Station

Iconic Shochu from Miyazaki

Miyazaki is home to 38 distilleries and offers a myriad of unique shochu flavors reflecting the local character:

• - Kuro Kirishima (Kirishima Brewery): A nationally renowned black koji shochu offering a smooth, sweet taste with a crisp finish.
• - Kamizuru (Kyo-ya Brewery): Known for using organic red sweet potatoes, this shochu features a beautiful presentation.
• - Ikokumon (Takarashuzou): A luxurious sweet potato shochu with a delicate, refined flavor.
• - Sawa Obi Sugi (Inoue Brewery): Famous as the first 100% sweet potato shochu produced via low-pressure distillation.
• - Hyakunen no Kodoku (Kuroki Honten): This versatile shochu offers layered flavors of coconut, barley, and a hint of smokiness.
• - Kamizu Ginger (Ochiai Brewery): An exceptional shochu brewed with ginger for a refreshing taste experience.
• - Soba Unkai (Unkai Brewery): As Japan's first buckwheat shochu, it boasts a fruity sweet aroma.
• - Sono no Tsuyu (Kawasaki Brewery): A rare gem known for its delicate character prepared with sake lees.

Books on Miyazaki Shochu

Explore two unique books focusing on Miyazaki's shochu:
1. Miyazaki Authentic Shochu Guidebook: This essential guide captures the heart of Miyazaki's shochu culture, from distillery passion to tasting pairings and experiential spots.
2. Miyazaki Shochu Cocktail Book (Bilingual): A groundbreaking collection featuring the world's first shochu cocktails created in collaboration with renowned bartenders.

• - Distribution: More information available at Miyazaki Tourism

Experience the richness and diversity of Miyazaki's authentic shochu, a true reflection of its land and culture.