Celebrating 100 Years: A Unique Partnership with Local Children at Kashitate Shuzou

Celebrating a Century of Tradition

Kashitate Shuzou, one of the renowned sake breweries located in Hachijo Town, Tokyo, proudly commemorates its 100th anniversary this year. Established in 1925, the brewery is celebrating this significant milestone with a special art initiative involving local children. Titled “Imagining the Future of the Island,” this project invites the artistic expressions of 100 children from the island to adorn limited edition sake bottles, making for a unique and heartwarming celebration of both tradition and future potential.

A Collaborative Art Project

Starting in September 2024, Kashitate Shuzou began gathering artworks from children under the age of 18 who reside on Hachijo Island. Collaborating with local elementary and junior high schools, they integrated the project into art classes, also setting up submission boxes at local supermarkets. From a total of around 250 artworks submitted, 100 were chosen to be featured on the labels of the commemorative bottles, reflecting the children’s diverse perspectives and emotions towards their island home.

The selected works include a vivid abstract painting by a 2-year-old, intricate drawings by high school students, and expressive cut-paper art, showcasing the colorful character and charm of Hachijo Island.

Pictured: Left - a work titled "Aoi" by a 2-year-old, Center - "Sea Ikogoon!" by a high school student, Right - "Hachijo Island Freesia Festival" by an elementary school student.

These special bottles adorned with the children's artworks are now available for preview on the dedicated anniversary site: Kashitate Shuzou 100th Anniversary Special Site.

Exhibition of All 248 Art Pieces

In celebration of both the rich history of the shochu culture and the visions of the children, a gallery exhibition showcasing all 248 submitted artworks was held at the Hachijo Town Hall Gallery. The exhibition drew significant attendance, allowing many to connect with the pieces that embody the spirit of the island.

Location: Hachijo Town Hall Gallery
Dates: August 7 (Thursday) to August 15 (Friday), 2025

Award Ceremony at the Hachijo Island Fireworks Festival

On August 11, during the Hachijo Island Fireworks Festival, an award ceremony took place on a special stage where the participating children were presented with the bottles. The children shared their thoughts and feelings behind their artworks, further enriching the communal celebration with personal narratives.

Insights from the Brewery Leaders

Mr. Shoji Sasamoto, President of Kashitate Shuzou, and Mr. Eiji Kikuchi, Managing Director, expressed their thoughts on this vibrant partnership. Mr. Sasamoto remarked, "'Shima no Hana' (Island Flower) was once a beloved shochu enjoyed throughout the island's restaurants. While there were challenging times, it has always been crucial for us to preserve the shochu my childhood knew and to pass down this cultural legacy to future generations. This 100th anniversary serves as a pivotal moment. Working with Mr. Oka, who presented refreshing insights like the engaging company logo and the children's label designs, has united our community around this project. I am profoundly moved by witnessing the children pouring their hearts into their creations, ultimately leading to these stunning labels."

Mr. Naoya Oka, the creative director of this endeavor, also shared his reflections: "It’s been an honor to realize this special initiative alongside the children, who embody the future of Hachijo Island. My inspiration came from my first visit to Hachijo Island, where I was captivated by the beautiful sea, the striking Hachijo Fuji, and the warmth of the local community. The idea of allowing the children to color the future through their art blossomed into this community-wide project, showcasing what each child sees in Hachijo Island. It is my hope that through these bottle labels, people will sense the charm and hope for the future of Hachijo Island."

Kashitate Shuzou is committed to continuing this partnership, ensuring the culture of the island is passed on to the next generation.