Embracing Tradition and Innovation: The Story of Iio Jozo Vinegar Brewery

Miyazu City’s Natural and Cultural Appeal

Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture, is renowned for its picturesque Amanohashidate, a natural sandbar that attracts numerous tourists, second only to Kyoto City. Known as the “Sea of Kyoto,” Miyazu’s beauty extends beyond its coastal attractions to its agricultural heritage. In February 2022, the terraced rice fields of Kamiseya and Matsuo were designated as “Connected Terraced Rice Field Heritage” by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries. These golden rice fields have become a new tourist attraction, celebrated for producing pesticide-free rice that is both safe and delicious.

The Legacy of Iio Jozo Vinegar Brewery

Among Miyazu’s historic businesses is Iio Jozo, a vinegar brewery with a 125-year history. Since its founding in 1893, Iio Jozo has adhered to traditional static fermentation methods to produce high-quality “Fuji Vinegar.” Although such vinegar represents less than 1% of the Japanese market, it is highly regarded by professionals and consumers for its unique production process and exceptional quality. Iio Jozo uses locally sourced, pesticide-free rice, a commitment that began in 1964 during the first Tokyo Olympics. The brewery’s founder witnessed the…