10 Years of Flavor & Creativity: Celebrate ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA with Underwater-Aged Awamori
Hello from ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA!
Thanks to your continued support, our hotel is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year!
As part of the celebration this August, we’re excited to introduce a truly special treat: Underwater-Aged Awamori. Get ready to discover the unique flavor of this rare Okinawan spirit, aged beneath the sea!

The ocean surrounding Okinawa is known as one of the most beautiful in the world.
Awamori, Okinawa’s traditional spirit, is unique in that it continues to mature even after it’s been bottled. But did you know it can also be aged underwater?
“Underwater-Aged Awamori” is created by submerging bottles deep beneath Okinawa’s mystical seas, where they slowly mature over time.
The flavor of awamori evolves based on how and where it’s stored—and even when bottles are aged in the same conditions, no two mature exactly alike. Aging underwater is said to bring out a depth and character that can’t be replicated above ground, resulting in a truly one-of-a-kind drinking experience.

July 2021 – Into the Ocean
In the summer of 2021, we began the Underwater-Aged Awamori Project with a wish:
“To offer our guests visiting ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA on our 10th anniversary a taste of Okinawa’s essence in every sip.”

Just Offshore from Seragaki Fishing Port, Onna Village
Our staff dove into the ocean in Onna Village, placing the bottles in an underwater cave 30 meters below the surface.
The sea here is incredibly clear, home to many fish, coral reefs, and even sea turtles.

Four Years of Encounters, Connections, and Discoveries
Since the summer of 2021, ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA has introduced a bold new food concept at our restaurant: “Ryukyu Mexican.” Blending Okinawan flavors with Mexican cuisine, it offers guests a fresh and exciting dining experience.
Beyond the kitchen, we’ve hosted vibrant events that bring together artists, shop owners, and creators from Okinawa and beyond—sparking creativity through workshops and community gatherings.
Over the past four years, we’ve had the pleasure of creating countless memorable experiences, all rooted in connection, culture, and culinary discovery.

April 2025 – Time to Resurface
This April, after four years underwater, the awamori was finally brought back into the blazing Okinawan sunlight.
The labels had peeled off, and the bottles were covered with rough layers of mud and salt that had slowly built up over time.
We had a small tasting right on the spot, and the awamori, aged in the special underwater environment, had a smooth mouthfeel and a distinct sea-infused flavor that can’t be found in spirits aged on land.

About the Awamori

”Shigure” by Shikina Shuzo
Shikina Shuzo is located in Shuri Sanka, near the historic Shurijo Castle.
It is known for storing some of the oldest awamori, including 160-year-old vintage bottles.
“Shigure” is named after a sudden rain shower that comes and goes — just like this awamori’s rich yet crisp flavor.
Made with black sugar yeast, it has a deep, complex taste and is a favorite among longtime fans.

”Yume Koukai” by Chuko Shuzo
“Yume Koukai” is a long-selling signature bottle from Chuko Shuzo, loved for its fruity aroma and easy drinkability.
Its fresh and vibrant scent is reminiscent of green apples.
Chuko Shuzo also manufactures their own unique aging jars called “Ryukyu Joyaki,” essential for creating high-quality aged awamori.
Their philosophy, “Preserve and innovate awamori culture,” is reflected in both their commitment to tradition and their forward-thinking approach.
“Yume Koukai” is a perfect blend of legacy and creativity — a beloved choice for many.
We would like to thank the Onna Village Fishery Cooperative and the diving shop “Ryukyu Tiida” for making the underwater aging possible in the seas of Onna Village.


”ISLAND CHAMPURU” ESTINATE HOTEL 10th ANNIVERSARY EVENT
At our 10th anniversary event this August, we will be serving the Underwater-Aged Awamori introduced here! The event is free to attend, so please feel free to join us.
August 9 (Sat) 16:00–21:00
August 10 (Sun) 16:00–21:00
※Please note that the number of servings is limited and will be available only while supplies last.
Themed around “flowers,” the event will feature a wide range of experiences that let you enjoy the Okinawan summer with all five senses. Don’t miss it!


ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA is a lifestyle hotel with a modern Ryukyu design.
Located in a prime spot with easy access to both the city and resort areas of Naha, it is just a short distance from Naha Airport. We also offer workation-style tours!
<Facility Information>
Facility Name: ESTINATE HOTEL NAHA
Address: 2-3-11 Matsuyama, Naha, Okinawa 900-0032
Access: Along National Route 58, 10 minutes by car from Naha Airport / 5-minute walk from Yui Rail “Miebashi” Station / 6-minute walk from Tomari Port Terminal
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