#Japan #Tokyo #Sake #Ginza #Nihonshu

A Unique Sake Experience in Ginza

On April 28, 2026, "THE NIIGATA" in Ginza will host a one-of-a-kind event called "Laugh and Learn: Sake Tasting Workshop with Nihonshu," featuring the comedic duo known for their expertise in sake. This innovative workshop aims to make the world of sake accessible to newcomers by blending humor with education.

Background and Purpose

Niigata Prefecture is famously known for its high-quality sake, yet a noticeable decline in sake interest among younger generations has emerged. In response to this trend, the event will break from traditional sake lectures by incorporating comedic elements of manzai (Japanese stand-up comedy). This approach aims to create an approachable environment for beginners and foster a new fanbase for Niigata's regional sake.

The collaboration with the humorists at THE NIIGATA marks a new chapter for sake learning experiences. The organizers aspire to offer a fresh value that not only educates but entertains.

Features of the Event

1. A New Way to Experience Sake

Comedians who are also certified sake sommeliers will simplify the basics of sake knowledge through engaging explanations laced with humor. This unique format guarantees that even those who have never tried sake before can learn joyfully.

2. Integrating Learning, Laughter, and Tasting

The workshop comprises three segments: a sake seminar, manzai performance, and tasting session, allowing participants to link knowledge with experiential tasting. This format ensures attendees depart with a memorable sake experience.

3. Direct Engagement with Niigata Sake

After the learning and laughter, attendees will move to 'THE SAKE Stand' located on the second floor for a tasting session, where they can immerse themselves in Niigata’s sake culture firsthand.

Event Overview

1. Name: Laugh and Learn: Sake Tasting Workshop with Nihonshu

2. Date: April 28, 2026 (Tuesday)

- Session 1: 12:00 - 13:00
- Session 2: 14:00 - 15:00
- Session 3: 16:00 - 17:00

3. Venue: THE NIIGATA, 3rd Floor Event Space, Ginza

4. Program Flow:

1. Sake Seminar (in the 3rd Floor Event Space)
2. Sake Manzai Performance (in the 3rd Floor Event Space)
3. Tasting and Networking (move to the 2nd Floor, THE SAKE Stand)

5. Capacity: 15 participants per session

6. Cost: 1,500 yen (includes five tasting cups)

7. Organizer: THE NIIGATA

- For application details, please visit THE NIIGATA official website.

About the Comedic Duo Nihonshu

Nihonshu, consisting of Asayan from Higashiōsaka and Kazuaki Kitai from Himeji, is a comedy duo formed in October 2007. They graduated from Osaka’s NSC (Nippon School of Comedy) 28th class and established their career with a successful solo live show in 2014 after gaining qualifications as certified sake sommeliers.

As the only comedy duo globally to hold the sake sommelier certification, they now focus on promoting sake culture nationwide, holding regular sake classes that have certified over 1,100 individuals as of April 2026. They have earned recognition from the Sake Service Institute for their contributions and have expanded their reach to the Z generation through viral social media content.

Future Prospects

THE NIIGATA plans to continue this innovative "Sake Tasting Workshop" monthly, with sessions slated for May 26 and June 9, 2026. By combining food, culture, and entertainment, we aim to create new connections between Niigata and the Tokyo metropolitan area, consequently broadening our community of sake enthusiasts.