Shusen Kurano traces its founding to the Sengoku period in the Kawanakajima basin of Nagano Prefecture, making it one of the oldest sake breweries in Japan, with origins around 1540. The Kawanakajima Genbu label was created as a more fruit-forward, approachable expression aimed at younger drinkers, distinct from the traditional Kawanakajima line. Female toji Chino Mariko, the founder's daughter, leads brewing operations and has earned multiple gold medals at the National New Sake Competition.
