Kaori Shimazaki is a co-Founder and current CEO of SAKE Generation. Their main product is Ichido Sparkling Sake. In this episode, Kaori talks about her company, sake, differences in sake culture between different regions in the US, and tips for enjoying sake to it's fullest. We also discuss the joys of life's small pleasures.

Listeners wishing to purchase Ichido Sake can visit the company website. Kaori was kind enough to provide a discount code for listeners of Concerts, Kimonos and Cocktails.

Website: https://ichido-global.com/pages/product
Discount code: ICHIDO25Y

There’s an old adage in the music business that says you should NOT meet your idols since you might be massively disappointed. Well, during my last week in Japan I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Asuka, my music idol, and nothing could be further from the truth. Asuka is based in Tokyo and plays the koto. She’s collaborated with artists in many genres including Japanese singer, Monday Michiru, dancers, the Straw Hatz, a fashion house in Paris, and many more. 

Website: https://asukakoto.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asuka_koto/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@asukakoto

Kara Harris, owner of Kimonotown, is a licensed kimono stylist and teacher.  She graduated from Aoyama Kimono Gakuin in 2022 as a "kotoshihanka" (licensed Master Teach and Kimono Stylist).  She uses the skills she acquired through her studies, modeling, and concept design in order to teach and create through the medium of kimono.

Kimonotown originally began in 2004, specializing in unique kimono, bridal ensembles, and kimono accessories. Kimonotown is a source for kimono-related information, education, and wafuku (Japanese clothing) sales especially for extended sizes. 

Website: http://www.kimonotown.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimonotown/
 

Marina Giordano is a WSET Certified Sake Educator and has the Japan Sommelier Association Sake Diploma. Additionally, she has earned her Wine and Spirits Diploma with WSET. She is also a Certified Specialist in Wine with the Society of Wine Educators. Marina has also completed the Japan Sake and Shochu Academy and has the Advanced Sake Professional title with the Sake Education Council and has completed the Sake Scholar Course.

Website: https://winesakechick.com/
Sake and Wine Classes: https://www.commonwealthwineschool.com/

Glossary of sake related terms and a summary of the brewing process, check out the knowledge page at Masumi Sake.
https://www.masumi.co.jp/en/knowledge/