Embassy of Japan in the UK

Feature

UK students brew sake in Tohoku

These last six months since the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March have given us an opportunity to realise once again the bonds of deep friendship between Japan and the rest of the world. This might be one of many stories in which local people in the affected areas can really feel the support and solidarity extended by people from far-away countries.

From 11th to 25th September the Japan Affairs Forum (www.jafonline.co.uk) sent a group of eighteen volunteers to Miyagi and Iwate prefectures to work together with expert sake (Japanese rice wine) brewers at five historic breweries in order to learn more about the process of brewing sake and to keep the spotlight on both Tohoku itself and also its proud brewing history. Amongst the volunteers, most of whom were students, various nationalities were represented: from Chinese to British, and Malaysian to American.

The Volunteers outside Niizawa Brewery

Dozens of sake breweries were affected by the catastrophe six months ago. Niizawa Jozoten, a brewery which received the volunteers, was also critically damaged by the disaster. Iwao Niizawa, president of the brewery, said, “We are now preparing for the relocation and also brewing sake at the same time. At such a busy time, the volunteers helped us a lot and I greatly appreciate their work.”

Alexander Parsons, Co-Founder of the Japan Affairs Forum, a student at the LSE and organiser of the project, said, “Sake is the perfect means through which to promote Japan after the March 11 disaster. It is synonymous with Japan, tastes delicious, and plays an integral part in the lives of many Tohoku citizens, whether it is through employment or simply bolstering community spirit.”

Their goodwill encouraged people in the affected areas and their efforts contributed to the reconstruction of the economy and society there. Now it’s your turn! Why don’t you make a contribution by savouring some sake?

Embassy of Japan