UnlockingJapan'sHidden Gems
GuidedbySuntory group
THE HEART
FSAKAZUKI
Philosophy
( people )
SAKAZUKI bringspeoplecloser.
Not as spectators, but through shared time.Through direct encounters with those who shape their work with intention.
Artist CollaborationsSAKAZUKI collaborates with artists who embody its philosophy, honoring tradition while evolving craft in contemporary ways, and will continue releasing annual artist collaboration series with creators who embody the same spirit. The inaugural collaboration features A-Mashiro, a Japanese contemporary artist whose 20-year practice explores balance, emotion, and color. Each artwork becomes a digital Sakazuki — a shared symbol of creativity and connection.
The SAKAZUKI CollectiveThe philosophy comes to life through the SAKAZUKI Collective(NFT) — an invitation-only digital emblem of belonging. It serves as proof of membership, access to exclusive experiences and artworks, your identity within the community, and a record of your personal journey — uniting tradition and technology in a modern expression of heritage.
CreativeArtist
A-MASHIRO
SAKAZUKIbringspeopletogether.
A-Mashiro is a Tokyo-based artist who has been creating works for over 20 years. Born in a traditional Japanese house with over 200 years of history, he grew up immersed in traditional Japanese culture and nature. This rich natural environment profoundly influenced his creativity, an influence strongly evident in his current work. While he initially worked with oil and acrylic paints, his current practice centers on digital art. His early style was driven by emotion, but he gradually shifted focus to composition and color balance. This shift reflects his view that creation is also a means of maintaining balance between mind and body. He also has deep connections with generative artists, establishing a unique position among 1/1 artists.
BENFITS
ACCESS TO
Benefits01
Collect Rare Creations
Rare, small-batch works — each carrying the spirit of its maker and the moment you encountered it.
Key Features
- Rare, small-batch creations made with true craftsmanship
- A fusion of story, artistry, and human connection
- Priority access for members who have completed certain experiences
Some pieces such as rare whisky may require completion of specific experiences. All alcohol bottle pickups occur in Japan in accordance with local regulations.
Benefits02
Acquire Japan Experience Pass
Not a tour.An encounter. Small-group journeys across Japan, designed to bring you face-to-face with its crafts, culture, and the people behind them.
What's Included
- Accommodation during your stay in Japan
- Domestic transportation for the entire experience
- Option to invite a Plus-One (additional pass required)
- Unique themes for each journey
What Makes It Special
- Direct access to master craftsmen and working environments
- Experiences not available through public booking channels
- Access to journey-exclusive items available only through participation
Benefits03
Exclusive Global Gatherings
Invitation-only gatherings where connection becomes shared experience.
What You Can Expect
- Special drink tastings unique to SAKAZUKI
- Access to event-only collaboration items
- Opportunities to connect with the global SAKAZUKI community
- Programs shaped by each city’s culture and context
FOUNDER
HIGHBALLCharlie
FOUNDER
Hi(ball)
“Sakazuki” means “sake cup” in Japan. People used to clink these small cups to show trust, respect, and friendship. This is more than drinking! It’s a simple act that brings people closer and opens the heart. No other creature shares a cup to connect like this. Only humans do. And that’s why, for me, the Sakazuki is one of the purest symbols of what it means to be human.
Biography
Charlie has been with Suntory for 27 years and is known as the “Father of the Highball,” having sparked Japan’s Highball boom. He developed both the Highball mug and the Highball machine, and is the founder of Good Measure, a Web3 startup within the Suntory Group.
FAMILY
TONY
Immigrant activist turned entrepreneur in the cryptocurrency, blockchain, and NFT space. He is a founding member of prominent DAOs, such as NeonDAO, ReadyPlayerDAO, BrightMomentsDAO, and MeebitsDAO. Tony is an active member of the Web3 community, mentoring and consulting in an effort to support growth in the space.tonyherrera.com
HARRY
Harry has been a project manager in the crypto/NFT space since 2021, working in everything from fine art to pure degen projects. Having lived and worked in Japan and for Japanese companies he also brings a wealth of experience in introducing the hidden gems of Japan to first time and repeat visitors.
STEVE
Stephen McKeon is a managing partner at Collab+Currency, a frontier technology venture fund that has completed over 150 deals across nearly every corner of crypto. They focus primarily on the intersection of AI and decentralized systems. Previously, he was a tenured finance professor at the University of Oregon and co-founded Skyward, a drone software startup.
NEORT
NEORT is supporting the connection between artists who use digital technology and society. In April 2022, NEORT++ an exhibition space specializing in digital art opened in Bakurocho. We aim to create new art experiences between online and offline.
MEMBER
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
Nori
Highball Charlie
G Maverick
Harry Otter
Jerry
Donglee
Diana-Luk
R Jeffrey
M. Shant
Girogio
GriMLiNX
Freeman Barry
SOL
Jason
Weiv Alvin
K
Yakov Josh
Shaolin
Kai
MaevePukecat
Tom
red
pukerainbow
LeValley Hunt Kelly
Buena Vida Jimena
G Jenny
CC
natealex
Schmrypto
Brewer Jason
Chelsea
H.S.
Sandeep
Valerie
Zac
davide4217
Rose Luke
Ellie Li
zariat
piv
Yoong Philip
Kee Vin
Frenandes Loxley
Mikee
S Yui
Arima Ryuzo
Hiro
Lifeisameme.eth
TuckerMT
mae
Charles Dk
Sripada Shashank
A
Snow Shannon
Frog00 Mc
Hall Travis
Wong Matt
Matheney David
Crispyone
Pratap
Koch(BK) Barrett
e22
Emily
Czr(casey)
miin
Dai Tina
Anne Bracegirdle
Snowfro Erick
James Higa
Sunrock
Justin Moskowitz
Ari
Alex Ok
Steve
Mashiro A-
Tomonaga Terry
Koh Youngwook
Derek
Sia
Borget Sebastien
Kim James
Guan
Toshi
Herrera Tony
NOTATOUR./ANENCOUNTER.
TABI
Access opens the door — but what matters is who you meet, and what stays with you after.Time shared,unrepeatable.Encounters shaped by people and place. Something that continues with you, long after the journey ends.
NOTPRODUCTS./EXPRESSIONS.
SAKE
What could not be scaled, rushed, or simplified — now given its place in the world. These works were carried forward, not abandoned. Shaped by time and the conviction of their makers. Now shared as they were meant to be — without compromise.
FAQ
01What currency can I use to purchase Sakazuki Collective(NFT)?
A. You can purchase it using the cryptocurrency Ethereum or a credit card.
02Is Sakazuki Collective (NFT) an SBT (Soulbound Token)?
A. No. It is a transferable token.
03Do I purchase the Japan Experience pass and Rare Creations as NFTs?
A. Yes. You purchase them as NFTs, and after redemption you can arrange travel bookings or request product fulfillment online.
04When will the schedule for Japan Experience and Global Gathering be announced?
A. We will publish an annual calendar when the website is relaunched.
05Does my "SAKAZUKI Collective (NFT)" expire?
A. No — membership is lifelong as long as you hold your pass. A yearly calendar helps you plan your Japan experiences, which must be purchased separately.
06How do I purchase Japan Experiences or Rare Creations?
A. Your SAKAZUKI Collective (NFT) unlocks access on the Sakazuki website. From there, you may purchase Japan Experience Passes or member-only creations. The website is currently being rebuilt and will relaunch in March/April 2026.
07Can I purchase rare bottles through SAKAZUKI?
A. Yes — some rare whiskies may require completion of specific experiences. All alcohol bottle pickups occur in Japan in accordance with local regulations.
08Do I need to buy a pass for Global Gatherings?
A. Depends on the event — some are free, others paid. Members who complete specific experiences may receive free access as a reward.
09What does "SAKAZUKI" mean in Japanese?
A. "Sakazuki" means a "sake cup" in Japan. Traditionally, people would clink these small cups as a symbol of trust, respect, and friendship. In Japan, exchanging sakazuki cups in traditional wedding ceremonies represents an "eternal bond."