Historie

• 1883: Masahiro distillery founded in Shuri, Okinawa by Shobun Higa. Awamori production under royal permission and the trade name Houchou Higa.
• 1945: The factory was destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa; loss of long-aged Awamori (Kusu).
• 1949: During reconstruction moved to Yonabaru-cho in southern Okinawa and resumed. The Masahiro name became the representative brand, which formed the foundation of the distillery.
• 1967: Modernization and relocation to Ishimine-cho in Shuri; introduction of low-temperature fermentation based on the post-war production tradition.
• 1979: Masakuni Higa (fourth generation) took over and worked to develop the Awamori market; introduced the 'Furusato Parcel' system, was among the first to bring Awamori to international markets and win gold in international competitions; helped introduce 'one-cup' bottles and carton packaging.
• 1991: The Nishizaki Factory in Itoman was built to celebrate the company's 100th anniversary and production moved to Itoman. Awamori Masahiro Gallery opened on site.
• 2015: The company changed its name to MASAHIRO SHUZO CO., LTD. with the aim of being loved by more people and promoting the Awamori culture.
• 2017: Licensed to produce spirits and launched Okinawa craft gin.
• 2022: Masayasu Higa appointed president (7th generation) and continues as a family heir.

Produktion / Fremstilling

• Primary focus on Awamori production as well as Moromisu (rice essence).
• Full set of equipment for Awamori production and storage capacity of 3,440 KL; Moromisu factory and biogas plant for sake-kasu processing.
• Production facilities with a complete set for Awamori, as well as Moromisu and a biogas plant.
• ISO 9001 certification for Awamori (achieved 2002) and for Moromisu (2004); two biogas plants established in 2003 and 2006.
• Introduction of low-temperature fermentation at the Ishimine facilities as part of modernization and the development of post-war production technology.
• Gallery and visitor experiences: Awamori Masahiro Gallery open at the Nishizaki Factory; factory tours are available (capacity up to about 100 people).

Produkter / Whisky-serien

• Masahiro Pure Malt Whisky 12 Years Old, Oloroso Sherry Cask (for example, awarded prizes in international competitions; example of products produced under the Masahiro name).
• KUJIRA Ryukyu Whisky 5 Years Old, White Oak Virgin Cask (received international recognition and prizes).
• KUJIRA Ryukyu Whisky 10 Years Old, White Oak Virgin Cask (received international recognition and prizes).
• Note: The main production is Awamori and Moromisu; the Whisky portfolio includes at least these brands and ages mentioned in the source text.

Besøg / Oplevelser

• Awamori Gallery located at the Nishizaki Factory in Itoman; exhibits of vintage Awamori and production materials.
• Factory tours are available, with capacity for up to 100 people; tours offered to visitors as part of the Awamori culture.

Filosofi

• The company continues to aim to actively engage with the local community while promoting Awamori culture.