A Taste of Paradise: Hayashi Shuzojo

Located in Yunomae Town, Hayashi Shuzojo is another incredible hidden gem in the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region.

Here is what makes this historic distillery so special:

A Taste of Paradise (“Gokuraku”): Their signature brand of shochu is called “Gokuraku”, which translates directly to “Paradise” or “Heaven” in English! There is a famous local saying about it: “The taste, the aroma, and even the feeling of being tipsy are pure paradise.”

One of the Oldest and Smallest: Founded in the mid-Edo period (around 1682), it originally brewed shochu for the lords of the Sagara clan. Today, it prides itself on being one of the oldest and the very smallest distilleries in the entire region, with its traditional flavors currently protected by the 15th generation of the family.

Winter Brewing by Mt. Ichifusa: They follow a beautiful, traditional brewing cycle. They start preparing the shochu during the coldest time of the year when snow covers Mt. Ichifusa (which we discussed earlier!). As the snow melts and spring arrives, their new shochu is finally ready. They also use pure well water that has been flowing continuously since their founding.

The Authentic Taste of Tradition: “Gokuraku” (Joatsu Distillation)

Held in the arms of the Shochu Sage, this specific bottle features a blue sticker indicating it is the “Joatsu” (Normal Pressure Distillation) version, which is a true masterpiece of tradition.

Here is what makes this traditional bottle so remarkable:

• Traditional Distillation: The blue sticker proudly says “Joatsu Joryu” (Normal Pressure Distillation). This is the traditional, centuries-old method of distilling shochu. Unlike modern methods, it extracts the deep, robust, and complex flavors of the rice, resulting in a very rich spirit.
• Long-Term Aging: The sticker also notes “Choki Jukusei,” meaning it has been carefully aged for a long time. This aging process brilliantly rounds off the strong, heavy edges of the traditional distillation, creating an incredibly smooth, mellow, and balanced finish.
• Profound Umami and Aroma: Because it stays true to this classic method, it boasts a profound rice umami and a sweet, slightly toasted, earthy aroma. It is the perfect representation of what an old-school, authentic Kuma Shochu should taste like.
• Best Ways to Enjoy: To fully open up its rich aroma and deep, sweet flavors, it is highly recommended to drink it as “Oyuwari” (mixed with hot water). It is also fantastic on the rocks, where the flavor evolves as the ice slowly melts.

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