Zen
The philosophy of ZENRI
with tranquillity and harmony
ZENRI is centred on the spirit of Zen, and also focuses on the beauty that dwells in the silence of reduced waste, harmony with nature and the spiritual richness that resonates deep within. The philosophy that emanates from its core has a natural connection with every element of the brewing process and is deeply embedded in each of its products.
Product Jikkan-junishi (the ten stems and the twelve signs of zodiac)
Jikkan-junishi weaves ZENRI's sake brewing living with nature
The people of ancient Japan deeply understood the passage of time and the cycles of nature through Jikkan-Junishi, integrating them into their daily lives. ZENRI's sake revives this ancient wisdom and the spirit of Zen in the modern age.
Zen is a philosophy that emphasises harmony with nature and the flow of time. The passage of time quietly repeats itself with the rhythms of nature. Ancient people lived according to the rhythm of the calendar of Jikkan-junishi, feeling the changing of the seasons and the breath of nature.
This calendar system is more than just years and years. It is a guide to capturing the expressions of nature in each season and helping us to savour every moment of it.
Zenri's sake brewing is deeply rooted in the rhythms of Jikkan-junishi, and follows in the footsteps of nature; In spring, the rice fields are filled with water and the seedlings gently begin to take root in the soil. In summer, under the blessing of the sun, the rice plants grow rapidly and turn golden. In autumn, the time of harvest comes and the carefully nurtured rice plants reveal themselves as the bounty of the earth, and in winter they await the moment when they will be transformed into new life along with the pure water.
The brewing of sake begins once a year in the harshness of winter. The clear, cold water merges with the rice and is quietly brewed and sealed in the bottle by artisans. Each cup is the very power of nature nurtured throughout the seasons.
Jikkan-junishi do more than just mark time. The sake produced by ZENRI is an experience of a series of natural processes, from spring when the rice grows, through autumn when the harvest takes place, to winter brewing. We want to share with you the beauty of each passing moment, with the changes of each season, in each of our cups.
Kyoto, Terroir
The power of the land in ZENRI
By using the water, rice and land of Kyoto, Zenri fosters a deep connection with the region and creates flavours that are unique to the area. This also reflects the Zen philosophy of becoming one with nature and finding harmony.
Water of Kyoto Fushimizu
Sake rice grown in Kyoto Iwai
Land in Kyoto Fushimi
The land of Kyoto weaves nature, history and culture into sake of ZENRI, giving it a unique and special flavour.
As a result, ZENRI’s sake embodies the power of the land and delivers its unique essence to the drinker.
Higashikura
Higashikura Regeneration Project
A space of tradition and Zen spirit
Higashikura is the first sake brewery in Kyoto. Built in 1924, this almost 100-year-old brewery still retains the original 350-year history of the brewery. Until 20 years ago, it was used as accommodation for brewers, but has not been used in recent years. It is scheduled to be registered as a cultural asset of Kyoto City.
The ongoing project to regenerate Higashikura goes beyond simply preserving the building. It is a symbolic initiative to pass on the traditional methods of sake making to the next generation and to link Japanese culture to the future.
Zen's emphasis on 'unchanging beauty' and the 'spirit of eliminating waste' is closely linked to the attitude of passing on the historic value of Higashikura into the future by making the most of it, while adding the necessary repairs and seismic reinforcements for the modern age.
Sustainable initiatives
Iwai (sake rice) is 100% pesticide free and uses environmentally friendly farming practices.
The by-products of the brewing process, in particular sake lees, are also reused as food, cosmetics and agricultural fertilisers. This demonstrates ZENRI's commitment to a sustainable future based on the Zen philosophy of ‘everything is connected’.
Working in harmony with nature is an important value in ZENRI's production methods. By brewing with respect for the rhythms of nature and the environment, ZENRI is looking towards a sustainable future.
Fusion of tradition and innovation
Innovative technology and Zen spirit
A spirit of continuous evolution without fear of change
ZENRI has preserved its traditions while using modern technology to improve quality. This innovation reflects the spirit of Zen, which is not afraid of change and is constantly evolving.
ZENRI is constantly improving its quality by preserving the traditional techniques that have been handed down over the years, while skilfully combining them with modern technology.
This spirit of innovation embodies the essence of Zen—fearless in the face of change and constantly evolving. The fusion of tradition and technology gives ZENRI’s sake its depth and complexity, creating a flavor in perfect harmony with nature.
Limited production
A special moment, enhanced by a rare drink
A luxurious moment woven by Kyoto’s nature and craftsmanship.
Only a small number of bottles can be produced each year, as they are carefully handcrafted by artisans using the limited rice grown in Kyoto. For this reason, sales are held by lottery several times a year.
Rare sake of ZENRI enriches the special moments of everyone who drinks it; We want to bring you a luxurious moment that will be deeply engraved in your heart.
