Sake, Japan's traditional alcoholic beverage brewed from rice, has garnered significant international attention, especially after Washoku (traditional Japanese cuisine) was registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. While sake is brewed throughout Japan, each region and brewery creates its own unique character based on factors such as rice type, water, yeast, and the brewmaster's skill. Savoring sake allows one to taste in its rich flavors the local terroir, the passion of the brewers, and the history and culture of the place of origin.

Shimane Prefecture, a land steeped in ancient myths, is considered the birthplace of sake, with myths and historical records mentioning its presence. The Izumo region, in particular, boasts the oldest sake brewing history in Japan and is home to shrines dedicated to the gods of sake brewing, attracting the devotion of those involved in the craft throughout the ages.

Shimane is also blessed with high-quality rice and abundant pristine water, making it an ideal location for sake production. The prefecture is home to numerous breweries, each preserving traditional brewing methods while sometimes embracing new techniques to create sakes with unique characteristics and personalities.

International visitors are drawn to Shimane's brewery tours and restaurants or Japanese eateries offering local cuisine pairings with sake. Local sakes can also be purchased at souvenir shops in major tourist destinations, including the Shimane Local Products Center, so be sure to stop by and explore.