UK joined CPTPP
15th December 2024
In December the UK formally joined the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). CPTPP is an Asia-Pacific trade bloc made up of 11 countries plus the UK. The 11 original members are Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam.
The UK is the first new member since the bloc was established in 2018 and the first European country to join in.
Japan Society Christmas Party 2024
12th December 2024
The Japan Society Christmas Party was held at the Ballroom of the Japanese Embassy, by courtesy of Ambassador Suzuki.
Festively decorated with a large Christmas Tree, and beautiful table decorations, the Ballroom was filled with many familiar faces alongside a wonderful array of new members. With sake generously provided by Sake Samurai, guests could enjoy a catch up and lively discussion over a drink.
Japanese sake brewing added to UNESCO intangible heritage list
4th December 2024
Japanese sake that is listed as a nominee for Intangible Cultural Heritage is displayed on Japan’s delegation table, during an UNESCO World Heritage Convention, in Paraguay on December 4th.
The UNESCO recognition, the delegation said, captured more than the craft knowledge of making high-quality sake. It also honoured a tradition dating back some 1,000 years – sake makes a cameo in Japan’s famous 11th century novel, The Tale Of Genji, as the drink of choice in the refined Heian court.
The 21st Oku Memorial Trophy
24th November 2024
On the 24th November, an annual rugby match was held at the Richmond Athletic Field organised by late Oku Ambassador’s best friend, Reg Clark. The ambassador Suzuki and supporters came to cheer the players on the field. In the afternoon, the international rugby match between Japan and England was held at Twickenham Stadium attended by 80,000 fans, making for an electric and exciting atmosphere. After the match, a sake reception was held at the Rugby Museum, courtesy of Rhino and Sake Samurai. Since 2019 RWC in England, sake has become increasingly popular amongst rugby fans.