Mie Prefecture's hidden gem "Shinto no Inori" | Sake made with underground water from the Isuzu River

• Table of Contents
• What is the Prayer of the Sacred City? Exploring its Charm
• Background and Features of Shinto no Inori
• The taste of Shinto no Inori and recommended ways to drink it
• How to obtain Prayer of the Sacred City and where to buy it
• Recommended sake brewery tours around Ise Shrine

What is the Prayer of the Sacred City? Exploring its Charm

A new brand originating from Meiwa Town: "Shinto no Inori"

"Shinto no Inori" is a new sake brand born in Meiwa-cho, Mie Prefecture. It is a pure rice sake made with underground water from the Isuzu River and made with a generous amount of locally grown sake rice, "Kaminoho." As it is brewed in an area close to Ise Grand Shrine, it is given the name "Shinto" and has a sacred atmosphere.

The sake is characterized by its well-balanced soft sweetness and crisp aftertaste. Usually, local sake reflects the unique climate and culture of the region, but "Shinto no Inori" is a one-of-a-kind brand that combines the traditions of Ise with innovation.

The unique flavor created by the underground water of the Isuzu River

The Isuzu River is a clear stream that flows near Ise Shrine and has been considered sacred since ancient times. The river's underground water has seeped underground over many years and is rich in natural minerals. This is what gives "Shinto no Inori" its mellow flavor and clean, pure aftertaste.

For example, compared to the light, dry sake brewed with soft water from Niigata, "Shinto no Inori" has a slightly rich flavor but is still refreshing to drink. This unique flavor is the result of the underground water of the Isuzu River, and it is highly regarded as a local sake that can only be found in the area.

Background and Features of Shinto no Inori

A local sake project born from industry-academia-government collaboration

"Shinto no Inori" is a special sake created through cooperation between a sake brewery in Meiwa Town, a local university, and the local government. This type of sake brewing through industry-academia-government collaboration is rare nationwide, and is attracting attention as a way to revitalize the local area.

In developing the sake, thorough research was conducted into the selection of sake rice suited to the local climate and the optimization of the brewing water. As a result, a one-of-a-kind brand was born, with the history and culture of Ise Shrine as its backdrop.

The rice used is "Kaminoho" and its characteristics

"Kaminoho" is a type of rice developed in Mie Prefecture that is suitable for sake brewing, and is characterized by its large core and excellent water absorption. This allows the brewer to create sake that fully brings out the flavor of the rice.

"Shinto no Inori" is made using 100% of this Kaminoho rice, and is made into a pure rice sake. As a result, it has a soft mouthfeel and a fruity yet calm aroma. In addition, you can really taste the umami of the rice, making it an excellent sake to drink with meals.

The taste of Shinto no Inori and recommended ways to drink it

"Misogakegawa" - a fresh and sweet taste

"Mimosuga" is a type of sake that is characterized by its fresh sweetness and fruity aroma. Fermented at low temperatures, it has a refreshing flavor reminiscent of apples and pears.

The aroma stands out when served chilled, and it is also recommended to enjoy it in a wine glass. It also pairs well with light dishes such as white fish sashimi and Caprese.

Dry and refreshing "Saio"

"Saio" is a dry sake with a crisp, clean aftertaste. Although it is dry, you can still taste the flavor of the rice.

This type of sake has a deeper flavor when enjoyed at room temperature or warm, and goes particularly well with Japanese food. Pairing it with rich dishes such as grilled fish, tempura, and sukiyaki brings out the umami of the ingredients.

How to obtain Prayer of the Sacred City and where to buy it

In recent years, online sales have also begun, making it possible to purchase from anywhere in the country.

However, because they are produced in limited quantities, they often sell out, so it's important to check for pre-orders and regular stock information.

Also, when purchasing, it is safe to use the website of an authorized retailer. Beware of counterfeit products and make sure you get the genuine "Prayer of the Sacred City."

Sacred City Prayer sales page

Recommended sake brewery tours around Ise Shrine

The area around Ise Shrine is dotted with historic sake breweries, where you can enjoy Mie's famous sake alongside "Shinto no Inori." For example, in Ise City and Matsusaka City, there are long-established sake breweries that have been in business since the Edo period, and tours are also available.

Learning about the history of sake brewing while enjoying tasting is an irresistible experience for sake lovers. It would also be fun to combine this with a trip to Ise-Shima and enjoy a tour of local sake breweries.

See a list of tours in Meiwa Town