October is shown as “酉” in Chinese and Japanese zodiac, which is read “Tori”. Originally, it is a hieroglyphic form for jar of Sake.
It is also the season for harvesting new rice crop and starting to brew Sake. Traditionally, the calendar for Sake brewers started with October 1.
Therefore, in 1978, the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association (JSS) designated “October 1st as Sake Day” to renew the passion to pass Japan’s national Sake culture, on to future generations, and to encourage deeper understanding and love for Sake. Since ancient times, Sake has been considered sacred and offered to the gods, and “toast” is meant to unite people in the presence of the gods.

The fun event “Kampai! with Sake 2022” is held all around Japan to experience the joy of “Kampai!” and the rich taste of Sake during “Kampai! with Sake Week” for ten days from September 23 (Fri. National holiday), 2022 through October 2 (Sun.), 2022, including October 1 (Mon.), “Sake Day”.
The event will be held in cooperation with prefectural Sake and Shochu Makers Association, Sake breweries, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout Japan.

1,001 people will be selected by lot from among those who purchase more than 2,000 yen of Sake and upload the receipt through the form.
※You cannot choose the brand.
In addition, 101 winners will receive a unique “Masu” Sake cup from among those who missed the chance. On October 1 (Sat.), the “Sake Day”, anyone can join the online event “Kampai! with Sake” held on YouTube LIVE. In the event, a chef will introduce snacks that go well with Japanese sake, and there will be a talk show with a special guest, a quiz contest, and timely reports from all over Japan. And the “Kampai” (Toast) at the same time will be at 7:00 p.m.

Since ancient times, Sake has been considered a sacred offering to the gods. The toast represents wish to unite people together. We have spent our days apart from each other for these couple of years, but “Kampai!” still makes us happy. Let’s tell the whole world that we can unite our hearts by making a toast with Sake at the same time on the same day, overcoming the distance. Let’s hope that the world will be connected through Sake.