英語

Fukano Shuzo's Commitment

Fukano Shuzo is located almost in the center of the Kuma Basin, surrounded by the rich nature of Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture.

The craftsmanship that has been passed down for over 200 years since the company was founded in 1823, along with the bountiful rice, Hitoyoshi's pure waters, and clay pots used for fermentation and storage, give its unique flavor and high quality.

On December 5, 2024, “Traditional Sake Brewing” was officially inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

Commitment to Materials 〜Hitoyoshi's bountiful rice and pure waters〜

Hitoyoshi's pure waters

An essential part of sake brewing is the brewing water. Fukano Shuzo uses brewing water that comes from deep underground in the Kuma Basin of Hitoyoshi.

Selected Japanese rice and potato

Kuma Shochu is made from carefully selected Japanese rice. Potato Shochu is made from local potatoes from Kumamoto, maximizing the natural sweetness and aroma of the ingredients.

Unique manufacturing process and craftsmanship

We follow the traditional method of production, and everything from rice malt production to fermentation, distillation and maturation is carefully carried out by hand by craftsmen.

The clay pot brewing process inherited from the Edo period is the essence of Fukano Shuzo.

The breathing clay pot slowly delivers oxygen to the main fermenting mash, which helps accelerate maturation even during fermentation, resulting in a mild-fla-vored Shochu with few off-flavors. We spare no time or effort in pursuit of the one and only flavor that can only be created in a clay pot.

1 3

Maturing Shochu in clay pots, casks, and storage tanks selected according to the type of Shochu and the flavor desired. Our many years of experience and know-how allow us to carefully select the maturation period and storage method that will maximize the Shochu's potential.

Fukano Shuzo is constantly striving to improve quality while continuing the tradition and pursuing the supreme taste of nature, time and master craftsmanship.

Pride of Kuma Shochu

Kuma Shochu has become an iconic shochu brand in Japan, as only one of four approved brands with Geographical Indication (GI). Fukano Shuzo is one of the leading distilleries for Kuma shochu. In 1995, the National Tax Agency JAPAN officially designated the shochu using rice produced in Hitoyoshi Kuma as “Kuma Shochu”. Our determination to use top quality rice and water has enabled Kuma Shochu to become a world-class liquor, along with Cognac brandy and Bordeaux wine.

Blessings of the Kuma River Nurturing Kuma Shochu.
The Kuma River, the largest in Kumamoto Prefecture, brings fertile soil and abundant water sources that yield high-quality rice Shochu. The enduring tradition of Kuma Shochu and the deep affection for rice Shochu, unchanged through the ages, remain firmly rooted in people’s lives even today.

History of Fukano Shuzo

Fukano Shuzo was founded in 1823 by Tokiji Fukano, a native of Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture. While visiting the Sagara domain to trade rice as a merchant, he noticed Hitoyoshi's pure waters and bountiful rice harvests and decided to start making Shochu here.

The current head, Seiichi Fukano, is the seventh generation. In 2023, we celebrated the 200th anniversary of our founding.

  • Around 1955.

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

In addition to our traditional Kuma Shochu, we have also ventured into whiskey and liqueur production. Our whiskey, aged in casks, develops a rich and mellow flavor, while our liqueurs—featuring local citrus and spices—offer distinct and vibrant tastes. 

Generations of inherited craftsmanship, combined with innovative thinking, continue to create entirely new delights in every glass.

Numerous Awards Proving Our Quality

Fukano Shuzo’s Shochu and other spirits have received numerous awards both domestically and internationally, earning high acclaim. The one-of-a-kind flavors, born from time-honored techniques and the dedication of skilled artisans, have been recognized by many experts and connoisseurs alike.

A Product Filled with Passion

Fukano Shuzo’s shochu and whiskey are each crafted with exceptional care and devotion. We hope you will savor their unique flavors.