Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute

In a sense, the only ingredients needed to make sake are water, rice, and koji. With this few ingredients, each must be top-quality — and bringing out their best requires one more: artisanal skill. The Noguchi Naohiko Sake Institute is named for its founder, the head of the Noto-Toji brewers’ guild. His skill and dedication earned him the nickname “the god of sake brewing,” and in 2017 he came out of retirement to establish this institute, in the hopes of inspiring future generations to take up the calling of the sake brewer. Start in the gallery with an overview of Noguchi’s career, before stepping into the intimate tasting room. Spend a relaxed hour sampling sakes, served in a variety of cups, including ones made by the Kinzan Kiln.