FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Zaku Naguwashi Series: A Fusion of Japanese Tradition and Contemporary Luxury in Sake Packaging

The Zaku Naguwashi Series, designed by Yasushi Uemura, has captured international acclaim by winning the Golden A' Packaging Design Award in 2025. Developed in Mie Prefecture, Japan, and launched in April 2023, this premium sake collection is tailored for luxury dining establishments across Europe, the United States, and Japan. The design seeks to elevate sake to the status of fine wine, making it a staple on curated wine lists and introducing global diners to the depth of Japanese culture through both taste and visual artistry.

Drawing inspiration from sacred Japanese motifs, the label design incorporates elements such as "shide" (paper streamers used in Shinto rituals) and "origata" (the ceremonial art of paper folding). These symbols are not only visually striking but also imbue the packaging with a sense of spirituality and authenticity. The innovative use of small, manually cut holes in synthetic paper mimics traditional paper while ensuring durability in restaurant environments, especially when bottles are chilled in coolers.

Recognizing the growing popularity of sake in Western markets, Uemura addressed the challenge of making sake bottles instantly recognizable as Japanese amidst a sea of wine bottles. The Zaku Naguwashi Series bridges cultural gaps by presenting traditional imagery in a way that is intuitive for sommeliers and accessible to international guests. This thoughtful approach allows restaurants to expand their beverage offerings, inviting patrons to explore new flavors and fostering a deeper appreciation for Japanese heritage.

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