Moon Brewing 'Dassai Moon Project' x 300-Year Tradition 'Giant Kite Battle': Niigata Farmers Fly High in Support

### Brewing Sake on the Moon in 2025!

The Niigata Prefecture Yamada Nishiki Association has announced its independent support for the 'Dassai Moon Project,' a space-related initiative led by Asahi Shuzo, the maker of 'Dassai' sake. To express their solidarity, a specially designed 'Dassai Moon Giant Kite' will be flown during the traditional 'Mitsuke-Imamachi / Nagaoka-Nakanoshima Giant Kite Battle' in June 2026.

### Expanding the Possibilities of Sake into Space

The 'Dassai Moon Project' is an ambitious challenge aiming for moon-based sake brewing in 2025. It has already successfully conducted fermentation experiments in a 1/6 gravity environment, mimicking the moon. As humanity's reach extends into space, sake culture is also preparing for a new stage, with Asahi Shuzo leading the way.

### Sincere Support from Farmers

As producers of the rice that forms the heart of sake brewing, Yamada Nishiki farmers in Niigata deeply resonate with this cosmic challenge. Although not officially part of the project, they are expressing their support through this 'voluntary' initiative, sending the 'Dassai Giant Kite' high into the sky.

### Carrying the Future on a 300-Year Tradition

The venue, the 'Mitsuke-Imamachi / Nagaoka-Nakanoshima Giant Kite Battle,' is a local tradition boasting over 300 years of history. Many Yamada Nishiki producers participate in the Sakaimachi-gumi kite-flying group. This year, the association will release the kite with three key messages:

- Support for the 'Dassai Moon Project' - Prayers for a bountiful harvest - Determination to win the Grand Prix in the 'Yamada Nishiki Beyond the Peak' project

### A Symbol of Hope for the Future of Agriculture

Despite the harsh environment for rice farming, including surplus production and low prices, this project's venture into space serves as a symbol of new dreams and hope for Japanese agriculture. The producers wish for a future where Niigata-grown Yamada Nishiki is used for moon-based brewing in 2050, making this kite the first step toward that goal.

### Key Visual Designed by 'Space Brothers' Creator Chuya Koyama

During the kite battle, members of Asahi Shuzo and local producers will participate wearing original T-shirts featuring the key visual designed by the renowned manga artist Chuya Koyama.