［Matsuo Taisha was founded by the Hata clan, a clan that came to Japan in the Heian period (794-1185), and since the relocation of the capital to Heian-kyo, it has been revered as one of the guardian deities of the capital. It is also revered by sake brewing companies nationwide as the god of sake and brewing. An exhibition introducing its history and beliefs is being held at the Kyoto Culture Museum until June 23 (Sun.), 2024. Of the 108 items on display, 90% are being exhibited for the first time. The exhibition will showcase a number of old documents that tell of the belief in the god as a warrior god held by such powerful figures as Minamoto no Yoritomo, Oda Nobunaga, Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and Tokugawa no Iemitsu.

In addition to the ticket (3,600 yen) for "An Evening of Sake in a Modern Western-style Building" on Tuesday, May 21, related events include a symposium commemorating the special exhibition (Thursday, June 13; advance reservation required) and gallery talks by curators (Friday, May 24 and Friday, June 7). An audio guide (rental fee 700 yen) will be provided by actor Kuranosuke Sasaki, who was born and raised in a sake brewery in Kyoto.

At a recent preview, supervisor Tomohiro Nomura (Kyoto University of Art) commented on the highlights of the exhibition, "We found good quality old documents in good condition. Through the exhibition, visitors can learn about Japanese culture," he said. It is interesting to unravel the history of sake from the treasures of Matsuo Taisha Shrine, popularly known as "Matsuo-san," and the way the local faith has continued uninterruptedly. Please take this opportunity to visit the venue!