About Kagoshima Prefecture
Kagoshima Prefecture is located in the southernmost part of Kyushu, facing the East China Sea. Its name, meaning "deer child island," reflects the region’s deep connection to nature. Dominated by the active volcano Sakurajima, Kagoshima’s landscape features rugged coastlines, lush greenery, and remote islands like Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient cedar forests.
Kagoshima is famous for its rich culinary heritage, including Kurobuta (Berkshire pork), Satsuma-age (fried fish cake), and shochu, a distilled spirit deeply rooted in local tradition. With over 100 distilleries, Kagoshima is one of Japan’s leading producers of shochu, using ingredients like sweet potatoes and barley to create a wide variety of flavors.
Historically, Kagoshima played a vital role in Japan’s modernization. As the birthplace of Saigo Takamori, a key figure in the Meiji Restoration, the region is steeped in samurai history. The preserved samurai residences in Chiran and the grand Sengan-en garden offer glimpses into its feudal past.
Blending rich history with stunning natural beauty, Kagoshima continues to embrace its traditions while welcoming innovation. From the steaming hot springs of Ibusuki to the vibrant culture of the Satsuma domain, the prefecture remains a captivating symbol of Kyushu’s unique charm.
About Hamada Distillery
Tradition, Innovation & Heritage Founded in 1868, Hamada Distillery embodies the art of shochu-making through its three distilleries: Denbee-gura (tradition), Denzouin-gura (innovation), and Kinzan-gura (heritage). Among them, Denzouin-gura operates under FSSC 22000 certification, ensuring the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Located in Kagoshima, a region blessed with volcanic soil and pristine spring water, Hamada Distillery continues a 500-year-old legacy of shochu production. The area's naturally filtered water and ideal climate create the perfect environment for cultivating premium sweet potatoes, the key ingredient in their renowned Satsuma Shochu. This prestigious designation, recognized by the WTO alongside Scotch whisky and Bordeaux wine, guarantees that every bottle is made exclusively from locally sourced ingredients and distilled using traditional pot still methods.
Daiyame – A New Vision for Shochu Launched in 2018, Daiyame redefines shochu with its signature fruity aroma, a groundbreaking innovation in the category. Carefully selected sweet potatoes, precise aging techniques, and vacuum distillation result in a refined, contemporary profile that has captivated the global bar scene.
Hamada’s dedication to balancing tradition with modernity has earned recognition from spirits experts worldwide. As journalist Oliver Ward notes, “Hamada Syuzou is a distillery that masterfully blends heritage and innovation.” With over 30 brands in its portfolio, Hamada continues to expand the reach of shochu, inviting the world to discover its rich history and bold new expressions.
