Doburoku is permitted to brew only several points all over Japan and this is only place in Kyushu Island. It is said many visitors come to the shrine from various parts of Japan. Young villagers are pounding rice cake with high-spiried shouts. After paying a visit to the shrine, we are served with Doburoku, kind of home-brewed raw Sake. The Doburoku is permitted by the tax office to brew only for the domestic use in the shrine.
Visitors can drink within the precincts.
The home-brewing starts on September 25th with a ceremony by Shinto priests, then set about for preparation on October 1st. After two weeks, it turns to Doburoku equivalent to the amount of about 1,500 litters. We were also served white Doburoku with black wooden cups. The rice grain still holds its shape in the liquor and the taste was somewhat saur and sweet. The Doburoku festival represents the wish for rich harvest and longevity.