“Akiu Heart Rock Sake” is a new sake brewery founded by the Isawa father-and-son team, formerly of Katsuyama Brewery.

The father, Heizo Isawa, serves as Chairman, and his son, Heiki Isawa, as President. The project started in 2024.

With the motto “crafting a new generation of sake for the future,” they respect traditional sake brewing while creating modern, innovative styles that go beyond convention.

The name “Akiu Heart Rock” comes from a heart-shaped hollow in Akiu stone, which can be seen from Rairaikyo Gorge, a famous scenic spot in the Akiu area of Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture.

Rairaikyo is known for its clear river, dramatic rock formations, and its location near Akiu Onsen. The Natori River, a first-class river flowing from the renowned Akiu Great Falls, also runs through this area, making it one of Sendai’s most popular tourist destinations.

Currently, Akiu Heart Rock Sake brews its sake at the facilities of Asakan Shuzo in Miyagi Prefecture. Looking ahead, the team aims to brew in Akiu itself in the near future.