#Japan #Tokyo #Japan Sake #Luxury Japan #Shinya Tasaki

Luxury Japan Award 2027 Launches Japan Sake Terroir Award

The Luxury Japan Award 2027 is set to make a remarkable entrance with the introduction of the Japan Sake Terroir Award, under the esteemed leadership of renowned sommelier Shinya Tasaki. This initiative is helmed by the Japan Luxury Tourism Promotion Organization, headquartered in Tokyo, with Naoyuki Miyama serving as the representative director. From July 14, 2026, the award will open entries to celebrate and promote the richness of Japanese sake as a vital cultural asset closely tied to local heritage and luxury tourism.

A Celebration of Unique Japanese Sake

The Luxury Japan Award has already made strides over the past years by honoring high-quality accommodation and dining experiences across Japan, showcasing its luxurious offerings to both domestic and international audiences. The newly established Japan Sake Terroir Award aims not only to recognize the quality of sake but to delve deeper into its roots by exploring the terroir of each region—its environment, climate, water, rice, and distinct culture. This award will serve as a platform to push the unique characteristics of Japanese sake to the forefront of the global market.

In recent years, Japanese sake has been gaining impressive recognition worldwide, becoming an essential component in promoting Japanese culture alongside traditional cuisine and inbound tourism. However, the concept of terroir, which is widely acknowledged within the wine industry, has yet to receive the same level of appreciation and understanding within the realm of Japanese sake. The Luxury Japan Award 2027 seeks to alter this perspective, advocating for sake to be viewed not merely as a beverage, but as a cultural and regional emblem that embodies the nature, history, and heritage of Japan.

Leadership by Renowned Sommelier Shinya Tasaki

Renowned for his expertise, Shinya Tasaki—winner of the world's best sommelier competition—will serve as the head judge for the Japan Sake Terroir Award. His extensive knowledge in wine, sake, and food culture, complemented by an international network built over years of experience, positions him uniquely to elevate the recognition of Japanese sake through this award. Tasaki’s in-depth appreciation for the cultural aspects surrounding sake, alongside its quality, will be instrumental in assessing and promoting its strengths on a global platform.

To further strengthen the international stature of Japanese sake, the board will include international sake experts as judges. Domestic judges will be selected based on recommendations from Tasaki, ensuring they hold qualifications such as the SAKE DIPLOMA and possess considerable tasting experience. This comprehensive evaluation system will merge international perspectives with deep local expertise.

Entry Details for the Awards

The award will feature two categories:

• - Junmai Daiginjo Category
• - Junmai Category

Participants are required to submit commercially available Japanese sake that distinctly represents the terroir elements of their region, encompassing its natural environment and raw materials.

The entry period begins on July 14, 2026, and runs until September 15, 2026. More details about the entry requirements are available on the official Luxury Japan Award website.

Promoting Local Revitalization and International Recognition of Japanese Sake Culture

The Luxury Japan Award aims to enhance the evolution of Japan's luxury tourism sector and elevate its recognition worldwide. By introducing the Japan Sake Terroir Award, this year's event spotlights the cultural, historical, and technical attributes of various sake breweries across Japan, thus contributing to local revitalization and further development of inbound tourism.

It is anticipated that diverse and unique Japanese sakes will forge new connections with enthusiasts and affluent travelers around the globe. This endeavor not only celebrates the acclaimed beverage of sake but also positions it as a catalyst for sustainable growth and cultural exchange within and beyond Japan.

About the Luxury Japan Award
Originating to promote Japan's luxury tourism development and international recognition, the Luxury Japan Award selects and showcases premier accommodation, dining establishments, and sake through the discerning eyes of both domestic and international experts. The award aims to convey the unique value of Japan and elevate its status on a global stage.

Organizers and Contact

Host Organization: Japan Luxury Tourism Promotion Organization
Sponsorship: Credit Saison Co., Ltd., Yusona Inc., Office REI LLC.
For more information:
Visit the official website at Luxury Japan Award or contact via email at [email protected] or call 03-3499-9101. The award's secretariat includes Fujimaru and Kawamura.