Collaboration of Six Japanese Breweries with Bikkuriman: Craft Sake Project 'JAPAN Craft Sake <Devils vs Angels>' to Launch in September 2025

Unique Collaboration Between Six Japanese Breweries and Bikkuriman

In an exciting announcement, Lotte Co., Ltd. has teamed up with six craft sake breweries from all over Japan for a new project titled 'JAPAN Craft Sake '. This initiative is part of a larger Bikkuriman Regional Revitalization Project, which aims to showcase the uniqueness of local regions through their craft alcoholic beverages. The project will officially launch in September 2025.

The participating breweries include:

- Abashiri Beer Co. from Hokkaido
- Kamihira Sake Brewery from Iwate
- Manyou Sake Brewery from Yamanashi
- Yoshinotomo Sake Brewery from Toyama
- Chiyonosono Sake Brewery from Kumamoto
- Kumesen Sake Brewery from Okinawa

Background and Purpose

The project is driven by a multitude of factors, including rising costs of raw materials, fuel, and packaging that have created a challenging environment for the sake industry. In light of these difficulties, the collaborative effort aims to bring a fresh perspective to the craft sake market, promoting regional pride and culture through the beloved Bikkuriman brand.

The plan features limited-edition BIG stickers showcasing iconic characters from the Bikkuriman series, creatively designed to evoke the unique allure of each brewery's region. For instance, breweries in Western Japan are identified as 'Devils', while those in Eastern Japan are termed 'Angels'. This dichotomy will form the basis for alternating releases, fostering a sense of collectibility and excitement among craft beer and sake enthusiasts.

The Timeline for Releases

The project is structured into three phases, with the first batch set for release between September and October 2025. Here's a closer look at the first offerings:

1. Yoshinotomo Sake Brewery from Toyama (September)
- Product: Yoshinotomo × Black Zeus (720ml of Junmai Daiginjo Sake)
- Price: ¥3,000 (excluding tax)
- Description: Known for their unwavering commitment to producing only Junmai sake, this brewery uses water sourced from the surrounding Hida Mountains and premium rice grown by local farmers.

2. Manyou Sake Brewery from Yamanashi (October)
- Product: Shunnoten × Heracles (720ml of Tokubetsu Junmai Sake)
- Price: ¥3,000 (excluding tax)
- Description: With 235 years of history, this brewery places significant importance on relationships with local rice farmers, and the collaboration with Bikkuriman aims to draw attention to their exceptional products amidst climate challenges.

Collectible Stickers and Availability

Each product will feature two types of limited-edition BIG stickers, with a nationwide version available at select stores and an area-exclusive sticker sold exclusively at local retailers. The nationwide sticker will be limited to 2,500 units, while the area-exclusive will have only 500 units available. Detailed purchasing information will be released on each brewery’s website approximately two weeks prior to launch.

In conducting this project, Lotte hopes to generate a revitalized interest in local craft sake while offering a unique and engaging experience through collecting, sharing local stories, and participating in an exchange that connects generations.

Future Prospects

This venture aligns with the 40th anniversary of the iconic Bikkuriman 'Devils vs Angels' series, a beloved part of Japanese pop culture since its inception in 1977. As Lotte’s initiative continues to evolve, stakeholders aim to harness the potential of creative collaborations to not only uplift the craft sake industry but also nurture community pride and innovation.

With this collaborative project, Lotte and the participating breweries are looking forward to creating a memorable experience that encourages exploration of Japan's diverse craft sake offerings while relishing the nostalgic charm of Bikkuriman.

For more information, feel free to visit the websites of the respective breweries involved in this exciting project.