For five years, a warm glow has poured from the corner of a street in Tachikawa, a bustling city located in the western suburbs of Tokyo Prefecture. This inviting light is not only a beacon for craft beer enthusiasts but also a symbol of Sakamichi Brewing’s unique place in Japan’s evolving beer scene. The light spills from the sliding glass doors of its taproom, where customers, both local and international, gather to savor freshly brewed craft beers. Behind the bar, an intimate brewing space hums with activity, producing the innovative beers that have made Sakamichi a cherished name in the area.
Founded by Matthew Boynton from England and Daniel Bellamy from the United States, Sakamichi Brewing was born from a shared passion for cycling. Their friendship, which blossomed over long cycling trips across Japan, led to the creation of a brewery that now holds a prominent spot in Tokyo’s western beer culture.
A Brewing Revolution
The Japanese craft beer industry has come a long way in recent years. Once hindered by restrictive tax laws, Japan’s craft beer sector has blossomed as government policies have become more supportive. While many Japanese were initially content with their traditional beer offerings, such as Ebisu, the demand for craft beer has steadily grown. Today, Sakamichi Brewing stands as one of the top craft beer producers in Tokyo, attracting both locals and visitors.
I met with Boynton and Bellamy at Sakamichi’s newest location, Sakamichi North, a mere block from Tachikawa Station. The brewery recently celebrated its five-year anniversary, marking a momentous milestone in a journey that began during the height of Japan’s craft beer renaissance.
Brewing Community with a Personal Touch
Sakamichi North, which opened in December 2024, offers a more accessible location for those looking to enjoy craft beer before catching a train home. Located near Tachikawa Station, the new venue aims to foster community. “We want to be a node in the culture of Tachikawa,” Boynton explained, noting the brewery’s involvement in local events like a monthly craft beer run, where participants receive a free beer after completing a run through the city.
The brewery’s original location, located a bit further from the station, has remained a cozy and popular destination for regulars. However, Sakamichi North’s closer proximity to public transportation has increased foot traffic and brought in a new wave of customers.
A Journey Through Craft Beer
The story behind Sakamichi Brewing’s name is as unique as its founders. Boynton, who previously worked at Baird Beer in Shizuoka and Ishikawa Shuzo in Tokyo, wanted to branch out on his own. Around the same time, Bellamy, who had spent two years touring the Americas on a bike, returned to Japan ready to embark on something entrepreneurial. Their shared love of cycling led to the name “Sakamichi” (坂道, meaning “hill road”), a nod to their many cycling trips across Japan. “We would find ourselves on some pretty interesting roads, and that was always our line: ‘What an interesting road!'” Boynton laughed.
Their goal was simple: create a brewery that produces high-quality craft beer while keeping it accessible to the local community. In a city like Tachikawa, which was underserved in the craft beer department, their arrival filled a gap in the market and quickly garnered the support of local customers who appreciated the personal touch and quality of the brews.
Facing Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs
The duo recalls the early challenges they faced, especially opening during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. One particularly difficult moment was when a government mandate temporarily halted alcohol sales. Undeterred, Sakamichi held an event to sell their remaining stock, and the community response was overwhelming. “The taproom was absolutely packed,” Boynton recalled. “It was really gratifying to see people come together to support us.”
The Evolution of Craft Beer in Japan
Boynton and Bellamy have seen first-hand the changes in Japan’s craft beer industry. While imported beers were once a staple in Japan, the global shipping disruptions caused by the pandemic accelerated the demand for locally brewed craft beer. “The beer here in Japan is incredibly fresh,” Boynton said, explaining how the short turnaround time from brewing to consumption has made Japanese craft beer increasingly attractive. “It’s almost like a glass of beer made just for you.”
As the industry matures, Sakamichi Brewing continues to produce seasonal beers and experiment with new flavors. One recent addition, the “Tipsy-T” razcherry sour ale, was crafted with the help of a crowdfunding backer who suggested using Swiss cherries and Oregon raspberries. The beer has been a hit, balancing sweetness and tartness with an easy-drinking 6% alcohol content.
Building a Loyal Following
Sakamichi Brewing has been able to cultivate a loyal following in Tachikawa, a city known for its diverse range of locally owned bars and restaurants. Daniel Bellamy explains that while they cater to the local Japanese population, they also attract foreign visitors and expats who are familiar with the craft beer culture. “We made sure to keep things approachable for first-timers, while also offering something unique for seasoned craft beer lovers,” he said.
The brewery’s flagship beer, the Shibasaki Session IPA, has become a customer favorite. With its balance of bitterness and citrusy flavors, it’s a gateway for newcomers to the craft beer world. “Our goal is to turn first-time customers into regulars,” Bellamy explained.
Looking Ahead
As Sakamichi Brewing continues to grow, Boynton and Bellamy remain committed to serving the local community and offering new beer experiences. With new seasonal beers like the Anniversary IPA, which uses hops from New Zealand, and fan favorites like “Mr. Bones” returning to the lineup, there is much to look forward to.
Sakamichi Brewing’s journey reflects not only the evolution of Japan’s craft beer scene but also the importance of community and personal connections. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned craft beer enthusiast, Sakamichi offers a taste of something special, brewed with passion and a dedication to quality.
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