[Nagoya Takashimaya] 'Kaku-uchi Meishu Koji' Opens: Enjoy Sake with Cups Crafted by Japan Art Crafts Association Artists

On the 2nd basement floor of the Japanese Sake section, 'Kaku-uchi Meishu Koji' will open at noon on Friday, April 10, 2026. The concept is 'A sake experience that begins with choosing your vessel.' [Key Points] 1. Experience Tasting with Vessels Crafted by Japan Art Crafts Association Members This experiential corner allows you to enjoy sake using 22 types of sake cups handcrafted by artists from the Tokai Branch of the Japan Art Crafts Association, primarily active in Mino and Seto. The aroma and flavor of sake change depending on the material, glaze, and shape of the vessel, bringing out different expressions of the sake. By providing a close-up experience of the craftsmanship that the Tokai region takes pride in, this project promotes the charms of local craft culture. All sake cups are also available for purchase. 2. Approximately 20 Carefully Selected Famous Sakes from Across Japan A lineup of about 20 varieties of premium sake, centered on the Tokai region and selected from all over Japan, will be available. From trendy brands to well-established labels, the selection caters to both beginners and connoisseurs, allowing guests to enjoy the differences in taste created by various cup pairings. [Overview] - Opening Date: Friday, April 10, 2026 - Operating Hours: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Last Order: 7:30 PM) - Location: JR Nagoya Takashimaya, 2nd Basement Floor (B2F), Japanese Sake Section - Content: Choose from 22 types of sake cups by Japan Art Crafts Association members. All cups are available for purchase. - Sake Selection: Approx. 20 types of famous sake, mainly from the Tokai region. A fresh 'Nama-zake' (raw sake) server will also be introduced. Examples: Nito (Aichi), Gikyo (Aichi), Houraisen (Aichi), Tsushimaya (Gifu), etc. Prices start from 660 yen per cup. - Food Menu: Snacks that pair perfectly with Japanese sake are available. Examples: Dried Mentaiko (spicy cod roe), Nagano Shinshu Pork Ham, Miso-pickled Cream Cheese, Marinated Bluefin Tuna, Dote-ni (miso stew), Duck Roast, etc. Prices start from 550 yen. [Introduction of Artists' Vessels] You can enjoy sake by choosing your favorite from 22 rare sake cups made by artists belonging to the Tokai Branch of the Japan Art Crafts Association. Wooden plaques detailing each artist's profile are displayed, allowing guests to enjoy the process of learning about the vessel's background while choosing their perfect cup. Please enjoy the delicate flavors of sake that vary with the material and shape of the vessel, along with the artist's handiwork. Vessels can also be purchased on the spot. The Japan Art Crafts Association is an organization composed of traditional craft artists and technicians, centered around Holders of Important Intangible Cultural Properties (Living National Treasures). Currently, about 1,200 regular members belong to the organization. It is a unique organization dedicated to the preservation, transmission, and public exhibition of intangible cultural properties (craft techniques) through traditional projects and records preservation. Featured Artist Vessels: - 'San-sai Shuto' (Sake Cup) by Toru Suzuki: Purchase price 38,500 yen. Regular Member of the Japan Art Crafts Association, Chairman of the Tokai Branch. Master: His father, Kura Suzuki (Living National Treasure for 'Shino'). - 'Fun-seiji Gui-nomi' by Makoto Wakao: Purchase price 44,000 yen. Regular Member of the Japan Art Crafts Association, Vice Chairman of the Tokai Branch. Master: Toshisada Wakao (Gifu Prefecture Intangible Cultural Property for 'Shino'). - 'Indigo Shino Gui-nomi' by Hiroshi Sakai: Purchase price 33,000 yen. Regular Member of the Japan Art Crafts Association, Executive Director of the Tokai Branch. Master: The late Kozo Kato (Living National Treasure for 'Seto-guro'). *Product List (Planned): Some items may be available after the opening date. Prices include tax.