Senryu Brewery: Three Centuries of Sake Excellence

In the heart of Emukae Town, Sasebo City, stands Senryu Brewery—a living testament to Japan's rich sake-making tradition since 1688. This historic brewery continues to honor its heritage by crafting exceptional sake using time-honored methods, local ingredients, and pure Nagasaki water.

From Maritime Guards to Master Brewers

The story of Senryu Brewery begins with the Yamashita family, who once served as maritime guards for the Hirado Domain. As Japan entered the peaceful Edo period, they established a honjin—an inn for traveling feudal lords—in Emukae, some 16 kilometers from Hirado. The site's pristine water and strategic location naturally led to the establishment of what would become one of Japan's most enduring sake breweries.

Time-Honored Craftsmanship

For over three centuries, Senryu Brewery has remained faithful to traditional sake-brewing methods in Emukae. Their sake embodies the changing seasons, with each batch crafted to complement local cuisine and celebrations throughout the year. This commitment to quality and tradition has earned them a special place in Japan's sake heritage.

A Living Museum

The brewery's historical significance extends beyond its sake production. Its original yeast brewery building, a designated tangible cultural property of Nagasaki Prefecture, stands as a remarkable example of Edo-period architecture. The elegant Emukae Honjin residence, known as "Chinsuisha," has welcomed countless distinguished guests through its doors. Today, both structures can be explored through guided tours by appointment.

Heritage in Every Bottle

Now led by the 13th generation of the Yamashita family, Senryu Brewery continues to serve as a cultural cornerstone of Emukae. Each bottle of sake represents not just a beverage, but a celebration of local ingredients, traditional craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of a community that has supported this remarkable institution for over 300 years.