Rice in a Warming World: Climate Change and the Shared Brewing Heritage of Japan and Thailand — Sake and Sato

About this event

Join us to explore how Japan's Sake and Thailand's Sato are facing and overcoming climate change challenges together! At our event, you will experience an exclusive reception-style dialogue and guided tasting exploring how climate change is reshaping two iconic rice-based traditions, and how lovers of Sake and Sato can be part of the climate solution. Rice is the cultural and culinary heartbeat of both Japan and Thailand. It is also the sole soul of two ancient fermented traditions: Japanese Sake and Thai Sato. However, unpredictable monsoons, rising temperatures, and shifting seasons are placing immense pressure on rice harvests, water purity, and delicate fermentation processes in both nations. This event isn't just a panel—it’s an immersive tasting and working dialogue. You will: Taste with Purpose: Experience a guided tasting pairing sustainable Japanese Sake alongside contemporary Thai Sato, connecting every pour to the climate realities behind it. Hear Direct Producer Stories: Discover how visionary brewers—like Fukushima’s Niida Honke and Thailand's ALLURE (who upcycles fragmented jasmine rice into premium Sato)—are using regenerative farming and circular brewing to fight back against climate change. Join the Conversation: Participate in intimate, table-based discussions to explore how our everyday choices as consumers can help save regional food and beverage heritage. Celebrate Shared History: Help us kick off early celebrations leading into the 140th Anniversary of Japan–Thailand Diplomatic Relations (2027) through a shared commitment to a climate-resilient future.