Toyonotsuru Shuzo, Chiba

Toyonotsuru Shuzo is a historic sake brewery located in Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture, operating since the Tenmei period between 1781 and 1789. Currently run by the 17th generation of the founding family under owner and sake master Toyohiko Tajima, the brewery stands as the sole surviving sake producer in what was once a thriving castle town with multiple breweries. The brewery initially started in the Zenigami area of Otaki before relocating to its current location in 1874 following the Meiji Restoration.

The brewery's main buildings, including the main house, chimney, brewery facility, and former rice-milling facility, were constructed during the Meiji period and have been designated as Registered Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan. These atmospheric structures have even been featured as filming locations for television dramas. Toyonotsuru produces sake under the brand name "Otakijo" (Otaki Castle), named after the historic castle that overlooks the town. The flagship product is a honjōzō genshu with a higher alcohol content of 18%, characterized by a dry profile with a well-balanced fruity aroma. This commemorative sake was introduced to the market in 1979 when Otaki Castle was reconstructed.

Visitors can tour the brewery by reservation and experience traditional sake-making facilities preserved from the Edo and Meiji periods. The brewery maintains its commitment to producing small-batch, handcrafted sake for local consumption, following methods passed down through generations. Tastings are available on-site, allowing guests to sample the distinctive Otakijo sake before purchasing bottles to take home. The historic atmosphere and cultural significance make Toyonotsuru an essential stop for those exploring Otaki's castle town heritage.

Toyonotsuru Shuzo is located at 88 Shincho, Otaki Town, Isumi County, Chiba Prefecture. The brewery is easily accessible on foot from Otaki Station on the Isumi Railway, which connects to the Kominato Railway at Kazusa-Nakano Station. From Tokyo, visitors can take the JR Uchibo Line to Goi Station, transfer to the Kominato Railway, and continue to Kazusa-Nakano before boarding the Isumi Railway to Otaki Station. Alternatively, a direct highway bus operates from Shinagawa Station to Otaki Town.