23
GENERATIONS
Saké of the Rising Sun

KOJIMA SOHONTEN

Saké Brewery


EST. 1597 - YAMAGATA, JAPAN

Notables:

  • Exclusive saké supplier to feudal lords in Yamagata during the Samurai era
  • Yamagata was the 1st prefecture to receive International GI (Geographic Indicator) designation
  • Well water source flows a consistent 11°C throughout the year

Kojima Sohonten Saké Brewery

Kojima Sohonten has been brewing saké since 1597 in Yonezawa, Yamagata. The brewery family has a long rich history with close relationships to the Uesugi Samurai clan, the famous feudal lords of the Yonezawa area. During the time of the prohibition of saké, Toko was granted a rare, formal exception to continue brewing, becoming the exclusive supplier to the Uesugi clan.

Kojima Sohonten is situated east of the venerable Yonezawa castle, giving it the name of ‘Saké of the Rising Sun’ (‘Toko’). The surrounding topographical features of the remarkable Mount Azuma and the Mogami River, known as the ‘Mother River’ of the Yamagata Prefecture, provide the brewery with clean, soft water. 

Toko Saké presents a culturally rich and refined experience. Extending over 23 generations of production, the brewery has worked hard to pursue first-class quality with an emphasis on craftsmanship and quality natural ingredients. Toko Saké is internationally acclaimed for its quality and style and the brewery has the rare distinction of being visited by the Emperor of Japan.