The story of Tamamura Honten in Nagano began more than 200 years ago as a sake brewery. Founded in 1805 near the cool mountain climate of Shiga Kogen, the brewery drew on the region’s exceptionally clear water to produce sake. Over time, its reputation grew beyond the local area, with its sake eventually reaching the Japanese Imperial Court as the surrounding region developed into a popular hot spring destination.

In 2004, Tamamura Honten expanded into beer brewing, bringing the same emphasis on local ingredients and distinctive flavors to its new creations. The brewery focuses on small-scale craft production, often incorporating rice and other local ingredients to create unusual hybrid beverages. Their philosophy centers on experimentation, quality, and responsible production, with the aim of creating drinks that reflect the character and natural beauty of the region.

One of their best-known beer series is Yama-Bushi, a collection that showcases their experimental approach through barrel aging and the use of wild yeasts in most of its releases. These beers demonstrate how Tamamura Honten brings together centuries-old brewing heritage with a distinctly modern craft sensibility.