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e long days and intense working conditions that have defined the kurabito’s lives for centuries have
given rise to an extraordinary closeness among workers, many of whom spend their whole adult lives
working for the same kura. It is the toji’s responsibility to foster and encourage these relationships in
order to create a positive working environment. Over time, several sayings have been created to describe
the ideal functioning of a brewery, and many continue to adorn the walls of the breweries to this day.
Below are a couple examples:
蔵人家族
Kurabito Kazoku
:
roughly translates to “workers are family”. In the traditional
system (still being practiced at some breweries to this day, including Minato Harbor), workers would
leave their families and live at the brewery for the duration of the winter brewing season. After eating
all of their meals together and working in tight conditions for over four months, it is not surprising
that a close, family-like bond would form among the workers!
和醸良酒
Wa-jo-ryo-shu:
roughly translate to “harmonious brewing, good sake”.is phrase
really emphasizes the interconnectedness of the kurabito.e brewing process is precisely scheduled
and needs to run like clockwork on a daily basis. Even small errors can disrupt the entire rhythm of
the kura, and lead to disastrous consequences both at that time and down the line.
The kurabito at Manabito share a meal together (left).The Kurabito at the Minato“Harbor”brewery distribute the steamed rice (right).