Awamori spirits event held in Tokyo to celebrate Shuri Castle reconstruction

An event celebrating the reconstruction of Shuri Castle and the culture of Awamori aged spirits (Koshu) was held at the Japan Sake and Shochu Information Center in Tokyo. Organized by the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association, the gathering coincided with ‘Koshu Day’ to promote the history and unique maturation methods of Okinawa’s traditional spirit.

A central focus of the event was ‘Shigagi’, the traditional practice of topping up aging jars with younger spirits to ensure continuous maturation. Participants experienced a tasting of various aged Awamori, ranging from 5 to 20 years old, including rare spirits aged in traditional clay jars for decades.

The event also showcased special brews, such as the ‘Zuisen Shuri Shoryu Koshu’, created specifically to commemorate the reconstruction of Shuri Castle. Experts highlighted the growing international recognition of Awamori, noting its versatility in cocktails and its unique status as a spirit that can be ‘grown’ through generational care.