About Kyoto Prefecture
Kyoto Prefecture, situated in the Kansai region of Japan, holds a rich cultural and historical significance. Known as the "City of Ten Thousand Shrines," Kyoto is a treasure trove of traditional architecture, serene gardens, and vibrant festivals. The name "Kyoto" translates to "capital city," underscoring its historical role as the imperial capital for more than a millennium.
Nestled in the picturesque Kamo River basin and surrounded by wooded hills, Kyoto boasts a landscape that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. The city is renowned for its iconic landmarks, including the historic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Taisha, with its famous vermilion torii gates stretching up the mountainside.
Beyond its architectural marvels, Kyoto is a culinary delight. The local cuisine showcases a diverse range of flavors, with specialties like kaiseki (traditional multi-course meals), yudofu (tofu hot pot), and matcha-flavored treats, reflecting the region's cultural refinement.
Kyoto Prefecture also preserves ancient traditions, such as the art of tea ceremony, ikebana (flower arranging), and traditional crafts like Kyo-yuzen dyeing and Kiyomizu-yaki pottery. The Gion Matsuri, one of Japan's most celebrated festivals, takes place annually in Kyoto, featuring vibrant parades and traditional performances.
As the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty, making it a destination that seamlessly merges the past with the present.
About Eikun
The Saito family began its sake brewing business in 1895. Before this, the family had been involved in the kimono trade in Fushimi since the Edo period. However, during the Meiji era, amidst major societal changes, the 9th-generation head of the family, Sōtarō Saito, transitioned from the kimono business to sake brewing.
Initially, the family sold sake under the trademarks "Yanagi Masamune" and "Ōtaka," but in 1915, in commemoration of the enthronement of Emperor Taishō, they introduced the brand "Ei Kun," which is still used today. The name "Ei Kun" was chosen to honor the late 9th-generation Sōtarō, taking the character "Kun" from his posthumous Buddhist name. Since then, the company has overcome the challenges of wartime and postwar periods. In 1960, the company became incorporated, and today it is led by the 13th-generation president, Kō Saito. The company is deeply committed to using locally sourced ingredients from Kyoto Prefecture, with a particular focus on the locally grown sake rice "Iwai," known for its exceptional brewing qualities.In Memory of President Tanaka Yuichiro
Through years of experience, the Saito family has perfected the art of sake brewing, combining traditional techniques with modern, clean, and reliable equipment to consistently produce high-quality sake. As a result of this commitment to excellence, the brewery has earned numerous awards, including 14 consecutive Gold Medals at the National New Sake Evaluation, as well as Gold Medals at the International Wine Challenge (IWC). These accolades have contributed to its growing reputation for superior quality both domestically and internationally. The main markets for their products include Kyoto, the Kansai region, and the Kanto region, with a strong presence in Eastern Japan.
