K Premium Craft
Legacy Meets Innovation. A new vision for Japanese spirits.
K Premium Craft is a project dedicated to developing a new kind of craft spirit based on shochu. By combining the deep-rooted traditions of Japan’s national spirit with innovative approaches, we aim to explore and share its full potential.
"Based on Kuma Shochu"
K Premium Craft is made up of a diverse group of professionals active in various fields, all of whom have roots in Hitoyoshi-Kuma and Kumamoto. Kuma Shochu has long been a familiar and beloved drink for us, and it serves as the foundation for our original spirits in this project.
"Japan’s Traditional Sake Brewing Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage"
In December 2024, Japan’s traditional sake brewing techniques were officially recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, acknowledging their historical significance and craftsmanship.
This recognition affirms the global importance of Japan’s sake culture, ensuring that the traditions of shochu, sake, and other regional brews will continue to be passed down and preserved for generations.
The koji-based fermentation process has evolved over centuries, adapting to different climates and environments, shaping unique brewing traditions in each region. Shochu, sake, and awamori all showcase the artistry of their makers, deeply connected to the natural elements of their respective lands.
"The Appeal of Shochu – A Japanese Distilled Spirit of Tradition and Innovation"
Shochu is a uniquely Japanese distilled spirit with a history spanning over 500 years, primarily developing in Kyushu. Long cherished as a drink for the common people, it offers a wide range of styles, from rustic and bold flavors to refined, modern expressions.
One of shochu’s greatest strengths is its exceptional compatibility with Japanese cuisine. In the 2000s, a nationwide shochu boom reignited appreciation for its role as a food-friendly spirit, solidifying its place as an essential part of Japan’s culinary culture.
Additionally, as a distilled liquor, shochu contains little to no sugar or purines, making it a health-conscious choice. It is known to help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and may even reduce the risk of gout, leading to a resurgence in popularity amid growing health trends. Its clean, refined taste, free from excessive impurities, also makes it easy to drink and less likely to cause harsh aftereffects.
From classically crafted shochu, made using traditional earthenware pot fermentation and black koji, to innovative styles incorporating elements of whiskey and gin, a diverse range of expressions continues to emerge.
As a result, shochu has evolved into a spirit that bridges heritage and modernity—a "traditional yet innovative" drink that adapts to the changing times.
With the global rise in popularity of Japanese cuisine, shochu is gaining recognition in international markets as "SHOCHU", expanding its presence worldwide.
By blending tradition and innovation, shochu continues to evolve, carrying Japan’s craftsmanship, culture, and limitless potential in every glass.
Kuma Shochu
Traditional rice shochu with 500 years of history
"Kuma Shochu – The Pride of Japan’s Authentic Shochu Region"
The Hitoyoshi-Kuma region in Kumamoto Prefecture is Japan’s premier destination for authentic shochu. With pristine water, high-quality rice nurtured by the region’s climate, and a 500-year-old tradition of sake brewing, these elements come together to create Kuma Shochu—a refined spirit known for its clean, pure taste and deep complexity.
It can be enjoyed in many ways: straight to savor its aroma and umami, diluted with water or hot water for a milder profile, or even warmed (jikakan) for a richer experience. In recent years, highball-style shochu with soda has also gained popularity, showcasing its versatility.
"A Global Hub of Distilleries and Shochu Culture"
With a population of around 80,000, this region is home to 27 distilleries, deeply rooted in a craftsmanship-driven shochu culture. Collectively, these distilleries produce over 200 brands of Kuma Shochu, each preserving its traditional techniques while embracing new innovations.
From barrel-aged shochu to unique spirits like liqueurs and gin based on shochu, the diversity of offerings continues to expand. As it evolves, Kuma Shochu is stepping onto the world stage, carrying forward its legacy while exploring new possibilities.
"Geographical Indication (GI) – Kuma Shochu"
In 1995, the World Trade Organization (WTO) designated Kuma Shochu as a Geographical Indication (GI) product. This recognition places it alongside world-renowned regional brands such as Cognac from France and Scotch Whisky from Scotland.
With this designation, Kuma Shochu has become the only rice shochu exclusively permitted to bear the name, signifying that it must be produced within the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region.
Shochu with GI Designation:
Kuma Shochu (Hitoyoshi-Kuma region, Kumamoto Prefecture)
Iki Shochu (Iki City, Nagasaki Prefecture)
Satsuma Shochu (Kagoshima Prefecture, excluding the Amami Islands)
Amami Kokuto Shochu (Amami Islands, Kagoshima Prefecture)
Tokyo Island Sake (Izu Islands, Tokyo Metropolis)
"For Those Interested in Kuma Shochu and the Hitoyoshi-Kuma Region"
We invite you to explore the world of Kuma Shochu through an immersive shochu distillery tourism experience.
For inquiries:
Kuma Shochu Brewery Tourism Council Office
15 Shinmachi, Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture
Torigoe Shoten Ichigoya Building
📞 TEL: 0966-22-2374
Our team
K Premium Craft project members
A Collaboration of Top Bartenders & Industry Experts
The members of this project include Yujiro Kiyosaki, one of Japan’s top bartenders, along with other bartenders, shochu distillers, editors, chefs, sommeliers, and experts from various fields, as well as food and drink enthusiasts.
In 2024, the project was launched by Isumi Shoji Co., Ltd. with the goal of further promoting Kuma Shochu, a local specialty. As the team explored new and unconventional approaches, connections naturally formed—almost like an unfolding adventure—bringing together the current members and supporters.
While the core members are primarily from Kumamoto, the team came together organically through existing relationships, shared connections, and mutual acquaintances.
"A Flavor Crafted Through Collaboration and Enjoyment"
At K Premium Craft, we have held numerous tasting sessions and meetings in Ginza, Tokyo; Hitoyoshi; and Kumamoto City, bringing together experts from various fields to refine ideas for our new craft spirits.
We are truly excited to share with you this special flavor, born from the fusion of tradition and innovation.
