News Discussion

Sake Brewing Custom Gets a Boost from UN Heritage Seal

Japan's traditional sake brewing culture has been inscribed as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, highlighting the global recognition of the techniques behind sake, shochu, and awamori production. Sake is integral to Japanese ceremonies like weddings and festivals, contributing to community bonding. Made using koji mold, sake’s unique flavor distinguishes it from other alcoholic beverages, reflecting centuries-old techniques dating back to the Muromachi period (1338-1573). These methods have been tailored to local climates and passed down through generations, preserving a heritage rooted in regional history and culture.

Despite its cultural significance, the sake industry faces challenges. Domestic shipments have steadily declined since peaking in 1973, dropping to less than a quarter of that peak by 2023. The competition from other alcoholic drinks and the rise of health-conscious, low-alcohol trends have further strained the market.

However, sake exports have surged, with their value in 2023 reaching four times that of 2014, driven by the global popularity of "washoku," Japan's traditional cuisine. The UNESCO recognition is expected to enhance international awareness and support for sake.

Sake also embodies spiritual traditions, as it has long been associated with religious rituals and offerings to kami (gods). Beyond its technical heritage, the spiritual culture linked to sake must also be preserved. While natural disasters like the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake have impacted breweries, crowdfunding and other efforts have provided support. Sake continues to serve as a symbol of resilience and a source of comfort, carrying the legacy of Japan’s cultural and spiritual identity.

1. 1. Intangible Cultural Heritage　無形文化遺産
   Passing down an Intangible Cultural Heritage requires the effort of both individuals and communities.
2. 2. integral　不可欠な、欠かせない、肝要な
   Teamwork is integral to achieving great results in any project.
3. 3. surge　急増する、急伸する、急上昇する、波のように押し寄せる
   Electricity usage surged during the heatwave.
4. 4. enhance　（質・度合い・能力などをさらに）高める、増す
   A good website design helps enhance user experience.
5. 5. resilience　（病気・不幸・困難・苦境などからの）回復力、立ち直る力、はね返り、弾力
   This material is known for its strength and resilience.

1. 1. What recognition has Japan's sake brewing culture received from UNESCO?
2. 2. What challenges does the sake industry face in the domestic market?
3. 3. What spiritual and cultural roles does sake play in Japanese traditions?
4. 4. What do you think can be done to help the sake industry overcome its challenges?
5. 5. How do you feel about the idea of connecting food and drink with cultural identity?

現代の酒造りの原型は室町時代にさかのぼる。地域の風土や環境に合わせて進化し、杜氏（とうじ）や蔵人らの技術が引き継がれてきた。各地から喜びの声が上がるのも、多くの地域で酒造りが行われてきた証しである。

一方で、現場の高齢化が進んでいる。その伝統を守りつつ、時代にあった変革も進めていかなくてはならない。

近年の市場は厳しい。農林水産省の調べでは、日本酒の国内出荷量は昭和48年をピークに減少し、昨年はその4分の1以下だった。多様な酒類との競合や健康志向による低アルコールブームなども要因だ。

ただし輸出は増加傾向にある。平成25年に無形文化遺産に登録された和食の人気に伴い日本酒の需要が高まっている。

業界のまとめによると、昨年度の輸出金額は10年前に比べて約4倍に増えた。海外ではすでに「SAKE」でも通じるが、登録による、さらなる認知度アップが期待される。

酒は郷土の歴史や文化を色濃く映す産物だ。地域色が強いということはそれだけ地場産業が多いことでもある。

東日本大震災や熊本地震、今年の能登半島地震でも多くの酒蔵が被害を受けた。クラウドファンディングなどを通じた支援も広がっている。今後も息の長い支援、応援を続けたい。

古来、酒は神事と深く関わり霊力を宿すとされている。神にささげた後に酒宴を開き、人々も口にすることで加護を得ると信じられてきた。技術の継承はもとより、心のよりどころとなってきた精神文化も受け継いでいくことが大切だ。