A unique craft beer inspired by Yamanashi’s famous “Kikyo Shingen Mochi” sweet has made its debut at JR Kofu Station. This special brew uses two key ingredients from the traditional sweet: brown sugar syrup (kuromitsu) and roasted soybean powder (kinako).
The new “Kikyo Shingen Kuromitsu Black Draft Beer” is now being served at Budoushu Ichiban-kan (葡萄酒一番館), a café and wine bar located on the second floor of Celeo Kofu(セレオ甲府), the station building.
This innovative beverage is the result of a collaboration between Kikyoya, the maker of the famous mochi sweet, and Far Yeast Brewing, a craft beer company from Kosuge Village. While the beer incorporates traditional Japanese ingredients, it maintains a refreshing, crisp taste that can be enjoyed in a classic beer mug.
Jun Nakamaru, President of Kikyoya, explains: “You might expect this to be a sweet beer, but it’s truly crafted to be enjoyed as a proper beer. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate its refined taste.”
The “Kikyo Shingen Kuromitsu Black Draft Beer” will soon be available at Kikyoya’s direct retail stores as well.
Note for readers:
- Shingen Mochi is a beloved local sweet from Yamanashi Prefecture, traditionally made with soft mochi (rice cake) topped with kinako (roasted soybean powder) and kuromitsu (brown sugar syrup)
- Celeo Kofu is the main shopping complex connected to JR Kofu Station
