On my way back from a business trip to Nagoya, I indulged in an “Izakaya Shinkansen” experience once again!
That day, work wrapped up a bit earlier than usual, and my colleague, who was also on the trip, had the same return schedule. That could only mean one thing—time for an “Izakaya Shinkansen” session! In other words, it’s all about enjoying delicious sake while riding the bullet train.
This concept was inspired by the drama Izakaya Shinkansen. After working hard, rewarding yourself with premium sake on the train—what could be better?
Choosing the Perfect Sake
Before boarding, we stopped by Takashimaya at Nagoya Station to pick out a bottle. That day, the liquor section was hosting a tasting event for Sakuramasamune from Hyogo Prefecture. I sampled everything from junmai to daiginjo, but nothing quite hit the mark.
Since my colleague is also a sake enthusiast, we decided to go for a local Nagoya sake. Our pick? Kamoshibito Kuheiji Junmai Daiginjo Yamada Nishiki 50 EAU DU DÉSIR—a premium bottle that truly represents Nagoya’s sake craftsmanship.
The Craftsmanship Behind Kuheiji
About Banjo Brewing
Founded in 1647 in Nagoya, Banjo Brewing is a sake brewery steeped in history.
The name “Kuheiji” has been passed down through generations of master brewers. Believing that true craftsmanship extends to the raw ingredients, the brewery cultivates its own rice, ensuring complete control over quality.
Their sake is highly acclaimed both in Japan and internationally, even being served in some of France’s finest restaurants. A true sake for global gourmets.
The Distinctive Taste of Kuheiji
This sake isn’t just about an elegant aroma—it embraces bitterness, astringency, and acidity, creating a well-balanced and multi-layered taste. Rather than relying solely on brewing techniques, it brings out the natural potential of the ingredients.
In 2010, Benjamin Roffet, winner of the French Sommelier Competition, praised this sake:
“It has a refined, floral aroma reminiscent of rose petals. Notes of melon, angelica, and cumin blend beautifully, with an exquisite balance of acidity and sweetness. This is something wine simply cannot replicate.”
Taking a sip, the initial floral fragrance gives way to an incredibly complex and layered flavor profile. The subtle sweetness of almost-ripe fruit, combined with a citrus-like bitterness, creates a unique accent. Acidity ties everything together, leading to a lingering finish.
This is more than just sake—it’s a work of art.
Cheers on the Nozomi Bullet Train!
We boarded the Nozomi at Nagoya Station, secured our seats, and eagerly opened our bottle of Kuheiji.
It was my first time drinking from a full yongou-bin (720ml) bottle on the train. Luckily, we had small tasting cups from Takashimaya, which served as perfect makeshift ochoko.
“This is amazing…”
Savoring such exquisite sake while watching the landscape blur by—what a luxury. This time, we skipped the snacks and focused solely on appreciating the sake itself.
The journey from Nagoya to Tokyo takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Finishing the bottle between the two of us felt just right.
Izakaya Shinkansen? Definitely addictive.
What’s next? Which sake should I try on my next trip?
For all the sake lovers out there, I highly recommend trying Izakaya Shinkansen on your next bullet train ride!
Nagoya Trip, Sake, Kuheiji, Izakaya Shinkansen, Banjo Brewing, Tokaido Shinkansen, Business Trip Enjoyment
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