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“The Perfect Way to Beat Japan’s Summer Heat.”

What is Natsuzake?

Natsuzake (夏酒) refers to special types of sake crafted to be enjoyed chilled during Japan’s hot summer months. While there is no strict definition, breweries across Japan create refreshing, easy-to-drink styles specifically for the summer season. These can range from lower-alcohol varieties to sparkling, sweet-and-sour, or even unfiltered cloudy sake.
※Natsuzake (夏酒) is usually read “natsuzake”, but you might also hear it called “natsushu.”

 

Here’s a quick overview of what makes summer sake special:

Best Served Cold:
Natsuzake is designed to be enjoyed well-chilled — the cold enhances its refreshing taste.

Light and Crisp:
It’s usually clean, crisp, and easy to drink — perfect for staying cool during the heat.

Low Alcohol:
Some summer sake has a lower alcohol content, making it gentle and smooth.

Sparkling Sake:
Some natsuzake is lightly carbonated, offering a sparkling, champagne-like fizz.

Sweet and Sour Styles:
Some varieties have fruity acidity and gentle sweetness, similar to white wine — they’re great in a wine glass!

Undiluted (Genshu):
Full-bodied genshu types are sometimes enjoyed on the rocks for a bold, chilled sip.

Nigori (Cloudy) Sake:
Unfiltered nigori sake is rich and silky with a subtle sparkle — a unique texture for summer.

-How to Enjoy Natsuzake-

Keep it Cold:
Always chill your summer sake well in the fridge. As the temperature rises slightly in the glass, the flavors will change — that’s part of the fun!

Choose Your Glass:
Try it in different glasses — a wine glass, a sake cup, or whatever you like. Each shape brings out new aromas and textures.

Pair with Seasonal Food:
Match it with summer dishes, local delicacies, or whatever you’re craving that day.

Try it On the Rocks or in Cocktails:
Pour it over ice, mix it with soda, or use it in a sake cocktail — there’s no wrong way to enjoy natsuzake!

-Join Us for a Sake Adventure This Summer-

Explore sake with us this summer — in Kobe, Kyoto, Nara, and even the hidden sake spots of Nishinomiya.
Our tours are more than just tasting. Enjoy food pairings, craft workshops, and special surprises — all customized for you.
Whether you’re with friends, a partner, or traveling solo, we’ll help you create a unique memory.

Kampai Sake Tours
E-mail: kampaisaketours@keieimachi.com
Cell-phone: +81 70 5461 3231
Website: https://kampaisaketours.com
Instagram：@kampaisaketours

👉 Book Your Tour: https://kampaisaketours.com/guide2/
📩 Contact Us: https://kampaisaketours.com/contact/