On June 7th, 2017, in order to raise the profile in Canada and to promote imports of Japan’s national beverage saké, the Embassy of Japan hosted a Japanese Saké Film Screening and Tasting. The event was attended by approximately 70 guests, including members of Canada’s legislative, judiciary and administrative bodies, Ambassadors, restaurateurs, sommeliers, chefs, LCBO officials, and food journalists.

The event began with a screening of the documentary film, ‘Kampai! For The Love of Saké,’ that has been presented at several international film festivals. The film features profiles of three passionate saké experts, who have been mesmerized by the captivating world of saké. The film depicts how ancient Japanese saké making traditions are being adapted to meet the increasing popularity of saké in the global market.

The Embassy was pleased to welcome to the event Mr. Kosuke Kuji, the 5th generation owner of the highly recognized Nanbu Bijin Brewery, who was featured in the film. Nanbu Bijin Brewery has been producing saké for over a century in the Tohoku region, where the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami hit in March 2011. After the film, Mr. Kuji briefly talked about director Mirai Konishi’s vision for making this film. Mr. Kuji gave a toast and expressed his gratitude for the presence of the guests.

To complement the screening of the film, guests were then invited to taste several kinds of premium saké that had been carefully chosen by Ambassador Monji, including saké from Nanbu Bijin. Guests also enjoyed hors d'oeuvres, such as sushi rolls, prepared by the Ambassador’s chef, Mr. Fujii.

 

Ambassador Kenjiro Monji delivering opening remarks

Movie screening

Mr. Kuji making remarks

Audience

Guests tasting saké

Guests tasting saké and Japanese food

Guests reading details of the saké map

Ambassador of Ukraine Andriy Shevchenko marking his favorite saké

Mr. Kuji, Ambassador Monji and Co-Chairs of the Canada-Japan Inter-Parliamentary Group Paul Massicotte

Mr. Kuji, Ambassador and Mrs. Monji and Chief Justice Beverly McLachlin and Mr. Frank McArdle

Ambassador Shevchenko, Mr. Kuji, Ambassador Monji and Minister of the Embassy of Korea Inkyu Park

Ambassador and Mrs. Monji, Mr. Kuji and Ambassador of Vietnam and Mrs. Nguyen Duc Hoa

Mr. Kuji talking with guests

Ambassador and Mrs. Monji and Mr. Kuji