Blog/Stew Mist] "Uozumi Sake Brewery," a power spot in Kitakyushu, the birthplace of Kaku-uchi (corner store).

Kitakyushu, the birthplace of Kakuuchi

Workers at the Yawata Steel Works who worked until the early hours wanted a drink after work! Apparently, this is how the kaku-uchi began, drinking at liquor stores that were open from the morning. Five years ago, there were nearly 100 kaku-uchi establishments in Kitakyushu alone. Sounds exciting! However, perhaps due to the effects of COVID-19, the number has now drastically decreased to around 65, so I knew I had to go as soon as possible! That's why I came to Kitakyushu.

Head to Mojiko Port, the birthplace of bargain banana sales

The first place we went to was Mojiko Port, the northernmost port in Kyushu. From the port, we could see Honshu across the sea, and it seemed like Ian Thorpe could reach it in about two minutes. For some reason, I felt happy even though I live in Honshu.

A leisurely 10-minute walk from there leads to Uozumi Sake Shop, located in a back alley where Tora-san might pop out. This long-established corner bar exudes an aura both inside and out. It has the air of a dignified champion, as if to say, "Come on in from anywhere."

Now it's time to go inside!

Inside the small shop, a traveler is quietly drinking alone, and the chef comes out from the tatami room in the back, quickly places down the edamame soybeans as an appetizer, and asks for the customer's order. Hmm, this also feels like Tora-san.

Drinking Japanese sake

Kyushu is often associated with shochu, but Fukuoka and Saga are also thriving sake breweries. We start with a chilled sake from Mizokami Sake Brewery, a local brewery in Kitakyushu. The snacks are simple, with no stews or even small side dishes, just cheap snacks.

Now, let's have some Kappa Ebisen. Yes, I can see why Kappa Ebisen is a long-selling product. I can't stop eating them. I'll have another one with some cold sake!

(´ー`)｡o○(Were Kappa Ebisen really this delicious?)

word used after one has been treated (esp. used after a meal)

It was a really tense experience. The silence of the store and the time-traveling atmosphere sharpened my senses, and interesting ideas that I would never normally come up with came flooding out. Once I was completely soaked with the blessings, it was time to pay the bill. It's best to leave when you feel like you want to stay a little longer.

It's a little far, but if I ever get stuck, I might just come back here and find a way out. That's my power spot. Now on to the second bar!

Uozumi Liquor Store Information

Address: 4-2-35 Kiyotaki, Moji-ku, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, 801-0833

Hometown Tax Donation: Mizokami Sake Brewery Sake Set [1] (720ml x 3 bottles) 3 Types of Sake, Compared to Others, Alcohol, Local Sake, Tenshin, Sarakura, Ginjo, Junmai Ginjo, Junmai, Made with Underground Water, Perfect for Home Drinking, Evening Drinks, Made in Japan, Fukuoka Prefecture, Kitakyushu City, Free Shipping Price: 15,000 yen (tax included, free shipping) (As of August 7, 2023)