10th Anniversary [Bien Matsuri] — A Thank You

October 28, 2023 — a day we were able to reach thanks to everyone's support.

With the participation of so many people, we were able to bring the Bien Matsuri to a successful close.

It began with an opening address by Tsunetsugu Tokiwazu.

We received a toast from Eiji Tamura of the Kanazawa Regional Taxation Bureau, who made the long journey all the way from Ishikawa Prefecture.

We savored a powerful performance of Owari taiko drums, and

introduced the five Aichi Prefecture breweries that generously served us their fine sake.

Sawada Shuzo

Shibata Shuzojo

Toshu Shuzo

Harada Shuzo

Did everyone find a favorite sake??

We heard delightful comments like, “It's so interesting to be able to talk directly with the kuramoto (蔵元)! Not only do you learn about the differences in water and rice, but hearing the brewers' passion made me love sake even more.”

And then came the entrance of “Tokiwazu Tsunaren.”

Tsunetsugu Tokiwazu, Tsunahou Tokiwazu, and Tsunechika Tokiwazu —

with narration, shamisen, dance, and laughter, it was a huge hit.

A sake quiz with lavish prizes — here we go, here we go ♪

The presenters were Toji Toyama of Sekiya Brewing, Yamamori Shuzo, and the Zero-Shu Project.

Thank you for the wonderful greetings.

Seeing the guests conversing warmly among themselves made us very happy.

To those who came from far away,

to those who listened to the opening address through tears,

to those who came on crutches,

and to those who turned down class reunions to join the Bien Matsuri…

We offer our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you.

Thank you truly.

You gave us your precious time and warm sentiments. Thank you for having met bien.

Your words of congratulation on our 10th anniversary and your great applause moved us deeply.

Without forgetting our founding spirit, we will continue striving to bring you joy.

We look forward to your continued support.

And finally.

Adding vibrant color to the venue was a lavish arrangement by Kyosetsu Rikuta of the Koryu school of the Shogetsudo (Japanese Ikebana) flower shop.