This Golden Week, Nihonbashi Takashimaya is set to host its first ever 'World Sake Festival', running from April 29 (Tuesday, holiday) to May 6 (Tuesday, holiday). Visitors will have the chance to sample alcoholic beverages from roughly 45 different countries. The event will be held at the 8th-floor exhibition hall of the main building at Nihonbashi Takashimaya S.C.
Despite a noted decline in alcohol consumption per capita in Japan, recent demographic trends highlight an increase in drinking rates among women. Convenience stores and various bars aiming at casual drinkers who enjoy exploring their favorite beverages have emerged as popular spots. The 'World Sake Festival' aims to cater to this evolving market by showcasing popular stands and renowned establishments, totaling around 12, that offer a diverse range of drinks. Notably, four sushi restaurants will present the trending pairing of sushi with tequila, dubbed 'Sushi-Tekila'. Additionally, the event will accommodate non-drinkers by offering a selection of non-alcoholic beverages and gelato.
Beer, Wine, and More
Beer: One must-visit is the 'Craft Beer Pub Popeye' from Ryogoku, known for serving over 70 different craft beers on tap. This year, a specialized 'cellarman' will present 20 selections, ensuring a robust experience for beer enthusiasts.
Wine: For wine lovers, 'Daniel's Wine Shop' specializes in natural wines from Eastern Europe and offers a diverse selection to pair with Romanian cuisine, making it a unique spot during the festival.
Sake: Guests can savor more than 600 kinds of sake from all over Japan at 'Izakaya Cheke', which highlights delicious seafood pairing options.
Each establishment will offer an array of tasting options including exclusive wines, spirits, and food pairings, ensuring that every visitor finds something appealing to their palate. Throughout the festival, a ticket system will be in place for food and beverages, with tickets available at the venue’s entrance.
The Sushi-Tekila Experience
The highlight of this event is undoubtedly the 'Sushi-Tekila' pairing experience. Renowned sushi chefs will craft exquisite hand-rolled sushi designed to complement premium tequila selections provided by the tequila bar 'Gatito'. Guests can expect a matching experience between sake and expertly prepared sushi, with options changing daily. Reservations will be taken through ticketing at the venue, ensuring an intimate taste experience for groups of 4-8 people.
A Destination for Drink Lovers
Beyond the tasting experiences, the 'World Sake Festival' transforms into a marketplace offering an assortment of wines, whiskeys, tequila, and other international alcohol selections for purchase. This includes unique products like SAKE made in New York and limited-edition shochu from Japan.
Moreover, festival-goers will have an opportunity to enter a lottery for some highly sought-after whiskeys during their visit. Notable options include Chichibu's Heavily Peated Whiskey and Suntory's Hibiki 21-Year-Old.
As this first-ever event promises an inclusive experience for both enthusiasts and newcomers alike, it will surely be a unique exploration of global beverages right in the heart of Tokyo. Make sure to mark your calendars and come join in the fun at Nihonbashi Takashimaya!