About Ibaraki Prefecture
Located in the Kanto region of Japan, offers a harmonious blend of nature, history, and modernity. Situated northeast of Tokyo on the main island of Honshu, Ibaraki is known for its diverse landscapes, from lush plains to scenic coastlines along the Pacific Ocean. The name "Ibaraki" evokes its historic roots, as it means "wild trees," hinting at its rich natural environment.
Steeped in tradition, Ibaraki is home to the iconic Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's three great gardens, famous for its seasonal plum blossoms. Historical landmarks like the towering Kashima Shrine, dedicated to martial arts, also contribute to the prefecture’s cultural significance. The region’s natural beauty is further enhanced by Mount Tsukuba, a spiritual and recreational destination offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Ibaraki's culinary scene is equally distinctive, with local specialties like anko nabe (monkfish hot pot) and natto (fermented soybeans) showcasing the area’s commitment to traditional flavors. The prefecture's agricultural wealth, particularly its production of rice and vegetables, forms the backbone of its culinary identity. As a center of innovation, Ibaraki is home to Tsukuba Science City, a hub for research and technological advancements. This juxtaposition of ancient tradition and cutting-edge science creates a unique atmosphere where history and modernity coalesce. With its deep cultural roots and forward-thinking vision, Ibaraki remains a fascinating destination that offers both the tranquility of nature and the excitement of discovery.
About Kiuchi Brewery
In 1823, Gihei Kiuchi, the village head of Kounosu in Hitachi Province, began brewing sake. At the time, the Kiuchi family collected rice as tax from local farmers for the Mito Domain. Gihei, seeing the potential in the surplus rice, decided to turn it into sake rather than store it. With equipment purchased from Aizu merchants, he produced around 4,000 liters of sake annually, using 20 koku (approx. 3.6 tons) of rice.
This period was one of reform, with the rise of loyalist ideologies in Mito, led by figures like Tokō Fujita. Living nearby and close in age, Fujita often visited the Kiuchi family, and eventually, Gihei’s sister married Fujita's nephew. With ties to local samurai and loyalist figures, Gihei named his sake "Kikusakari" to show support for their cause.Fast forward to 1950, when Miki Kiuchi inherited the family business in postwar Japan. As shortages gripped the country, the sake sold quickly, even as lower-quality mass-produced sake became the norm. Yet, the Kiuchi family remained dedicated to quality, producing pure rice sake without additives.
This commitment to excellence carried into 1996 when Kiuchi Brewery launched its first beer, Hitachino Nest, using European ingredients. Over time, the brewery pursued a uniquely Japanese craft beer, leading to the revival of the native Kaneko Golden barley, which had been out of production since the 1950s. This resulted in the creation of "Nipponia," a Japanese ale. More recently, they have also revived a new barley variety, Asuka Golden, using it not only for beer but also in whisky production. By 2020, they plan to release their first 100% local Japanese whisky, crafted with locally grown ingredients.
