Daiichi Shuzō is a Japanese sake brewery based in Sano, Tochigi Prefecture, known for its Kaika brand. Founded in 1673, it is the oldest continuously operating sake brewery in the prefecture.

Its distinctive character lies in the longstanding connection between rice cultivation and sake brewing: employees tend the brewery’s own rice fields, from planting to harvesting, while also working with local farmers. It uses high-quality water from the Sano area and traditional small-batch brewing methods, with an emphasis on hands-on craftsmanship.

Kaika sake is characterized by gentle umami, a full rice flavor, and refined, expressive aromas. Since 1998, the brewery’s entire sake production has belonged to the tokutei meishō-shu classification, encompassing specially designated sake categories such as junmai, ginjō, and honjōzō.

Daiichi Shuzō remains closely connected to its local market: approximately 80% of its shipments are destined for Tochigi Prefecture, while Kaika is also exported to North America, Europe, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, and Singapore. The brewery bases its future development on improving quality and introducing new ways to enjoy sake with food. Through tastings, seasonal events, and its on-site gallery, it also connects sake brewing with the cultural life of the local community.