Background
Established in 1863, it has been producing sake for over 150 years, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. The brewery is best known for its Tamajiman sake brand, which draws on the pure underground waters of the Tama River, a key ingredient that gives its sake a clean, smooth flavor. Over generations, Ishikawa Brewery has maintained its dedication to small-batch brewing, using locally grown rice and time-honored fermentation techniques.
As Japan’s craft beer movement started gaining momentum following the deregulation of brewing laws in 1994, Ishikawa Brewery saw an opportunity to diversify and revive the spirit of small-scale, local brewing. Using their centuries of experience in fermentation and quality control, the brewery launched its beer brand Tama no Megumi (“Blessing of Tama”) in 1998.
The beer production took inspiration from both European traditions and Japanese precision. Ishikawa’s brewers studied German and British brewing methods, incorporating imported malt and hops while maintaining the pristine Tama River water that had long defined their sake’s reputation. Early offerings included a Pilsner, Pale Ale, and Weizen, all designed to be flavorful yet balanced to suit Japanese palates.
Beer Reviews
The following are some of the regular beers we’ve had:
- Tama no Megumi Japan Beer – a 5% remake of the original Japan Beer from 1887.
- Tama no Megumi Munchener Dark – a 5% dunkel style beer based on a traditional German recipe.
- Tama no Megumi Pilsner – a 5% pilsner based on a traditional German recipe.
- Ishikawa Tokyo Blues – a 5% American pale ale that was first sold in 2015.
Limited & Seasonal Line-up
The following are some of the limited and seasonal beers we’ve had:
- Tama no Megumi Helles – a 5% helles style beer that is released in spring.
- Tama no Megumi Weizen – a 5% hefeweizen beer that is released in spring.
Articles
The following are some of the articles we’ve done about Ishikawa Brewery:
Details
- Address : 1 Kumagawa, Fussa, Tokyo 197-0003
- Phone : 042-553-0100
- Homepage : https://www.tamajiman.co.jp/
- Online store : https://tamajiman.com/index.html
- Social Media : Facebook / Instagram
