Japan’s Largest Sake Event ‘Sake Fair 2026’ Announced

The Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association, the industry's largest organization representing about 1,600 sake manufacturers, will host the 'Sake Fair 2026' on June 19 (Fri) and 20 (Sat), 2026, at Ikebukuro Sunshine City.

The Sake Fair 2026 comprises two events: the '17th National Sake Fair,' showcasing over 1,000 brands from across the country, and the 'Reiwa 7 Brewing Year National New Sake Appraisal Public Tasting,' featuring top ginjo-shu produced this year.

Highlights: Introducing Tickets for Those Under 40

To share the appeal of sake with the next generation, a special ticket category for those under 40 has been introduced for the first time. Sake is seeing an increase in young makers and consumers alike. The fair offers content such as brewer dialogue, DJ booths, and pairing experiences to help people discover the fun of sake. As it is hosted by the association, it provides a unique opportunity to experience the 'now' of sake nationwide without prejudice.

‘17th National Sake Fair’: A Travel Through Japanese Breweries in Tokyo

Sake brewer associations from 45 prefectures will gather, offering tasting opportunities and direct conversations with brewers. Purchased sake can be taken home. Special areas include:

- SAKE DISCOVERY GATE: A zone to experience tasting by type and temperature, enjoy sake with music at DJ booths, and join mini-seminars on pairing. - SAKE DISCOVERY KITCHEN: An area offering carefully selected snacks and light meals to complement sake.

‘Reiwa 7 Brewing Year National New Sake Appraisal Public Tasting’: The Pinnacle of Sake

Approximately 400 award-winning sake from the National New Sake Appraisal, co-hosted with the National Research Institute of Brewing, will be available for public tasting. It is a rare annual opportunity to experience the current pinnacle of sake (ginjo-shu) created with passion by breweries nationwide.