The Hokkaido brown bear (Ezo Higuma) is the largest wild animal on the island, revered by the indigenous Ainu people since ancient times and still one of Hokkaido’s most iconic symbols today.

To create a sake that embodies Hokkaido’s identity, Fukutsukasa Shuzo in Kushiro City designed a unique release called Pon Epere — “bear cub” in the Ainu language. This 300ml sake is housed inside a bear-shaped vessel, with the detachable head cleverly doubling as a sake cup. Inspired by Ainu woodcarving traditions, the bear is designed with angular, polygonal facets, highlighting the cultural bond between Ainu and the brown bear.

Inside the vessel, the sake is brewed from Hokkaido-grown Ginpu rice, polished to 65%. It is a classic tanrei karakuchi (light, dry style), smooth in texture and an excellent companion to food.

Founded in 1922, Fukutsukasa Shuzo is the only sake brewery in Kushiro, Hokkaido. Using naturally filtered underground water from eastern Hokkaido, the brewery is known for crafting sake that pairs seamlessly with local Hokkaido cuisine.