In December 2024, UNESCO added Japan's traditional techniques for making sake, shochu and awamori to its Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Alcoholic drinks have long played a vital role in Japanese culture, such as in Shinto rituals and festivals. Join us as we review the story, learn about the essential ingredient that is koji and study terms like "mukee bunka isan" (intangible cultural heritage) and expressions like "ganbatte kudasai" (do your best).