Hakugoku

Kawachi Shuzo, the only sake brewery on Tsushima Island in Nagasaki Prefecture, has been producing sake under the Shiratake label since 1916, drawing on the island's abundant soft groundwater stored in forested mountains that cover roughly 90% of the land. The soft water character drives a gentle fermentation and a sweet, easy finish that has secured the brand an 80% share of sake consumption on the island. Hakugoku belongs to this island-specific tradition, where regional identity and natural resources define every aspect of production.