Zanpa Day (Zanpa no Hi)

What is Zanpa Day?

Every year on March 8th, Japan celebrates "Zanpa Day," established by Higa Shuzo Co., Ltd., an awamori distiller headquartered in Yomitan Village, Okinawa, so that even more people will enjoy its flagship awamori (Okinawan distilled spirit), "Zanpa." The date comes from a wordplay reading 3 as "zan" and 8 as "pa." The company also hopes people will share Zanpa together and welcome spring with a fresh spirit. The day was registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2018.

The History Behind Zanpa Awamori

The story of Zanpa is one of challenging the old image of awamori as a strong drink for men.

• "White" and "Black": The company's second-generation head, Takeshi Higa, wanted to make an awamori that women and people who disliked awamori could enjoy. After much trial and error he completed an original still, giving birth to the flagship "Zanpa 25% (White)" and "Zanpa 30% (Black)."
• Born after the war: In postwar Okinawa, amid severe shortages, many people lost their sight after drinking bootleg liquor containing methyl alcohol. Founder Torakichi Higa began making awamori wishing to "provide good awamori to the people of Okinawa," and the company is recorded as founded in 1948.
• The origin of the name: "Zanpa" takes its name from Cape Zanpa, a stunning scenic spot in Yomitan Village. The company logo also depicts the waves breaking against Cape Zanpa.

Fascinating Facts About Zanpa

• "Zan-shiro" and "Zan-kuro": "Zanpa White" is affectionately nicknamed "Zan-shiro," while "Zanpa Black" is called "Zan-kuro." The White label is designed to evoke gentle clarity and the Black label strength.
• Versatile ways to drink it: Beyond neat or with water, it's enjoyed with soda, mixed with shikuwasa (Okinawan citrus), and even with coffee, reflecting modern, free-spirited drinking styles.
• Cape Zanpa: Cape Zanpa, at the northwestern tip of Yomitan Village on Okinawa Island's west coast, is a scenic spot known for its cliffs about 30 meters high.
• Drink responsibly: Awamori is a strong spirit, so enjoy it at your own pace — mixed with water or soda, for example — and only if you are of legal drinking age (20 in Japan).

A Moment of Bliss on the Sea Breeze

Zanpa Day is a day to think of Okinawa's blue sea and sky, and the warmth of the people who live there. A passion as powerful as crashing waves, paired with a refreshing clarity that soothes the heart. On March 8th, why not raise a glass of this drink with its contrasting charms, forget the hustle and bustle of daily life, and ease into Okinawa's relaxed "island time"? Good drink has a way of loosening the heart and making time with loved ones all the richer.

Tips for Enjoying Zanpa Day

• Pour your favorite "Zanpa" into a glass, mix it however you like, and enjoy it alongside Okinawan dishes and tasty snacks
• Look at stunning photos or videos of Cape Zanpa, plan a trip to Okinawa, or relive memories of past visits
• Learn a little about the history of awamori and how it's aged, and savor each sip with a deeper appreciation
• Raise a glass with friends and call out "Kariii!" (cheers!) to share some bright, positive energy

A Clear Brightness Lights the Way Ahead

March 8th is a day to feel as clear as a glass of awamori as you welcome spring. May you carry within you the strength to ride out any rough waves with ease, and the warmth to embrace those around you while staying true to yourself. May today be a rich, fulfilling day for you — as deep and flavorful as a fine aged "kūsu" awamori!