The Timeless Legend of Otokoyama Honten
On the rugged coast of Kesennuma, a renowned port town in Miyagi Prefecture, stands a brewery with over a century of history—Otokoyama Honten. Founded in 1912, this sake brewery is known not only for its exceptional craftsmanship but also for its incredible story of survival and community spirit.
In 2011, the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami hit the area, destroying the brewery’s historic 1932 building. But remarkably, the brewery itself and its fermenting mash (moromi) survived. Just one day after the disaster, Otokoyama Honten resumed brewing. It wasn’t just about making sake—it was a symbol of hope, recovery, and determination.
With strong support from the local community, the brewery became even more committed to its roots. Otokoyama Honten continues to use local ingredients—like Miyagi-grown Kura no Hana rice—to brew sake that captures the taste and spirit of Kesennuma, especially its rich seafood culture.
Signature Labels to Discover
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Sotenden: Delicate, clear, and elegant, Sotenden is crafted to pair beautifully with fresh seafood. Inspired by the region’s coastal environment, it’s a refined sake that brings out the best in dishes like sashimi and grilled fish.
Sotenden Tokubetsu Junmai
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Kesennuma Otokoyama: This is the brewery’s classic and most enduring label—crisp, clean, and refreshingly dry. A true staple that has stood the test of time.
Kesennuma Otokoyama Tokubetsu Junmai
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Biroku:The brewery’s premier series, crafted by Nanbu Toji master brewers, Biroku is smooth, layered, and luxurious—truly a sake that lives up to the phrase “sake wa ten no biroku” (sake is a blessing from the heavens)
Biroku Junmai Ginjo Origarami Namagenshu (monthly set exclusive)
(Images are from Otokoyama Honten Website and Otokoyama Official Facebook)