Japanese · Food & Drink
日本酒
nihonshu
Japanese rice wine (sake)
Definition
An alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. It holds a central place in Japanese culture and religious ceremonies.
Example
日本酒は冷やして飲むのが好きです。
I like drinking sake chilled.
Etymology
The word 日本酒 (nihonshu) translates to 'Japanese sake,' where 日本 means 'Japan' and 酒 means 'alcohol.' The term 'sake' in English can refer to all alcoholic drinks in Japan but specifically describes this rice wine.
How & Where It’s Used
日本酒 (nihonshu) is used in both informal and formal contexts, such as in restaurants, during celebrations, and in cultural ceremonies. It is prominent throughout Japan, with regional variations in production.
Literary Heritage
Sake appears in ancient texts, such as 'The Nihon Shoki' (Chronicles of Japan) and is featured in traditional Japanese poetry and songs.