SENGETSU SHUZO

Established over 110 years ago, Sengetsu Shuzo produces mainly traditional Rice Shochu. Their name is borrowed from the famous and beloved Hitoyoshi Castle of Kumamoto Prefecture, which also carries a second name "Sengetsu Castle" or Crescent Moon Castle. The current Toji is the 6th distillery head, and he carries with him all the techniques and secrets of his predecessors.

Behind the Name

Sengetsu Shuzo is located in Hitoyoshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. During Japan’s feudal era, the Hitoyoshi area was under the rule of the Sagara Clan.
On one occasion, when the clan was having a castle built here, a delicate crescent moon-shaped stone was discovered among the excavated soil. Because of this, Hitoyoshi Castle also became known as Sengetsu Castle (“Crescent Moon Castle”), a name that is still used among local people to this day.

Sengetsu Shuzo, named in honor of this event, is only a stone’s throw away from Sengetsu Castle. Since 1903, they have been making a traditional type of rice shochu called “Kuma shochu”. Ever since their foundation, they have employed Toji (head distiller) who, over generations, have handed down their own unique knowledge and techniques. The 3rd generation Toji was granted the title “Contemporary Master Craftsman”, an award which is bestowed upon outstanding craftspeople by the Japanese government. The ７th Toji is currently responsible for maintaining their exacting traditions and standards.