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Paper short abstract

The aim of this presentation is to offer a perspective on regional society through Shochu. While discussing the current state of shochu research, I will identify two issues, argue for the necessity of an ethnographic approach, and present a new foundational framework for the study of shochu.

Paper long abstract

The theme of this presentation is the relationship between “Shochu” and “Regional Society”. Shochu is a type of Japanese Sake, widely consumed in Southern Japan. The purpose of this presentation is to suggest that that previous research on Shochu has overlooked the connection between Shochu and regional culture or regional society, and to suggest a perspective for viewing regional society through the lens of Shochu.

To support this, I will critically review the history of Shochu research from its emergence in the 1970s to the present, highlighting both its achievements and its limitations.

I will begin by explaining some fundamental information on “what is Shochu.” One of the most significant events in the history of Shochu is the 1970s "Shochu-Boom " , which sparked interest in the subject. I will then outline key achievements in humanities and social science research. Historically, humanities scholars have focused on the history of production such as the origins of ingredients, distillation technology, and the master distillers known as Shochu-Toji. Meanwhile, social science research has treated "Shochu as an industry," using quantitative analysis to examine production, distribution, and the dynamics of the Shochu-Boom and its potential for globalization.

However, I identify two significant gaps in this existing body of work. First, humanities research has largely ignored the role of Shochu in the daily lives and practices of local communities. Second, social science studies often fail to connect the industry to the regional society that underpins its economy.

Ultimately, Shochu research is incomplete without considering its deep ties to the community. I argue that ethnographic research, which directly engages with contemporary society and culture, is essential to bridging these gaps. To facilitate this, I present the "Tetrahedron of Shochu Research" as a fundamental framework for future study.

Few studies explore regional societies through the specific, historical objects rooted within them. Therefore, this perspective offers significant insights not only for Shochu studies but also for post-WWII Japanese social history.