A.P Holdings Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Toshima-ku, Tokyo; Chairman and President: Hisashi Yoneyama) announces that its restaurant chains Shijuhachigyo, Nakizakana, and Suminosaka will offer limited quantities of "ubu," a special Japanese sake crafted in collaboration with breweries for the New Year season, starting from the first business day in 2026.
These two varieties of Japanese sake pair exceptionally well with seafood, allowing guests to enjoy the celebratory spirit of the New Year season in a festive atmosphere.
About "ubu"
Launched in 2020, "ubu" is a Japanese sake developed by Shijuhachigyo in collaboration with master brewers, with the intention of contributing to expanding the appreciation of Japanese sake. The restaurant chain carefully selects high-quality sake from across the country.
For the New Year, when opportunities to enjoy Japanese sake increase, the goal was to create a sake that would satisfy both "sake connoisseurs" and help "sake beginners" discover its delicious qualities.
The name "ubu" (meaning "fresh" or "new") captures the image of "freshly made, vibrant flavors" and "a sake befitting the 'first' of the New Year celebrations," making it a New Year-exclusive brand for Shijuhachigyo.
The label design expresses the sparkling light of fresh snow and the innocence of newness.
Enjoy two varieties of "ubu" with their refreshing New Year fragrance and crisp taste.
Labor-Intensive Luxury Direct-Draw Sake
Imada Shuzo: ubu with Fukucho
This Japanese sake offers a well-balanced combination of refreshing acidity reminiscent of the New Year season, fine and smooth "ori" (sediment) like powdered snow, and a gently sweet flavor.
The ingredients include Yamada Nishiki rice from Hiroshima Prefecture, with koji rice polished to 50% and kake rice to 60%. The yeast is a blend of Hiroshima Prefecture's ginjo yeast and Reiwa No. 1, creating a ginjo-style sake with fresh fragrance and delicate taste.
The refreshing and juicy taste of "Fukucho," evoking lemon groves in Akitsu, pairs wonderfully with white fish and shellfish.
About Imada Shuzo
Located in Hiroshima Prefecture. Established in 1868 (first year of Meiji). The current master brewer at this 100-year-old sake brewery is Miho Imada, who preserves the tradition with dedication. Her sake-making that balances tradition and innovation, along with her activities as one of Japan's few female master brewers, have been recognized through a documentary film and by being selected as one of BBC's "100 Women of the Year."
Nagayama Honke Brewery: ubu with Taka
This sake features a beautiful aftertaste that disappears like thin ice and a crisp, dry taste quality that evokes the clear, sharp air of the New Year.
Made with 100% Yamada Nishiki rice polished to 60%, this "origara mi" (lightly filtered) sake allows you to enjoy the rich umami of the rice. Its lively citrus fragrance resembles grapefruit.
The "Taka" sake, with its New Year-appropriate transparent crispness and sharp dryness, is recommended paired with yellowtail sashimi or grilled fish garnished with citrus.
About Nagayama Honke Brewery
Located in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Established in 1888 (21st year of Meiji).
"Taka," created by sake brewer Takahiro Nagayama, has become a renowned Japanese sake brand with fans nationwide.
While Japanese sake is typically made with soft water, Nagayama Honke Brewery is located in an area with "medium-hard water," which contributes to the crisp, dry sake quality that characterizes "Taka."
Service Location Information
Stores
Shijuhachigyo locations: http://www.48gyojyou.com/shop/
Also available at sister brands including Nakizakana locations, Nihonbashi Suminosaka, sake bar Otonari, and others
Price (tax included)
Shijuhachigyo
One glass: ¥830/glass, Katakuchi carafe: ¥1,180
*Prices may vary at sister brands such as Nakizakana and Nihonbashi Suminosaka due to different sake vessels used
*Prices may also vary at different Shijuhachigyo locations depending on the sake vessels used
Service Period
From Thursday, January 1, 2026, available from each store's first business day until sold out.
The first business day varies by location.
Please check via SNS for detailed information or contact each store directly
*Prices shown include tax.
*Images are for illustration purposes.
*Content may change depending on availability and timing.
*No alcohol will be served to anyone under 20 years of age, or to those who will be driving cars, motorcycles, or bicycles.
*Information stated in this press release is accurate as of the announcement date and may change over time or due to various subsequent events. Please note this in advance.
