INFORMATION

Our president, Utoda, has long dreamed of welcoming local elementary school students for a field trip—and that dream has finally come true! On Thursday, February 12th, we were delighted to welcome fifth and sixth graders from an elementary school in Kuju-machi, Taketa City, Oita Prefecture, where the Kuju Distillery is located, for a tour of the distillery.

The students were divided into two groups: Takeishi, our head of production, led the 5th graders, while President Utoda took charge of the 6th graders. They guided the students through the production building and maturation cellar, explaining the intricate process of how whisky is crafted.

We gave the students a taste of the wort (the sweet liquid extracted from malt) that had been brewed just that morning. Many were surprised by its sweetness, exclaiming, “It’s so sweet!”

The sixth graders, in particular, seemed to enjoy seeing how what they learned in science class—such as enzymes and distillation—was applied to whisky making, and their teacher was very pleased.

We were greatly inspired by the many insightful questions they asked, questions that would impress even adults.

That evening, the teacher delivered a thank-you message from everyone! We were all deeply moved!

It was an honor to have local children, who had always been curious about what it was like inside, come and see for themselves.

We believe we were able to convey the fun of manufacturing. We sincerely hope that this will inspire future whisky lovers, and even future production staff.

Thank you very much to the fifth and sixth graders and teachers of Kuju Elementary School!