Takao Beer has introduced “Mt. Takao Craft,” a collaboration beer made with Yuki-do Honten, a confectionery known for Takao Manju, a local specialty at the foot of Mount Takao.

According to the brewery’s post, the azuki bean skins separated during the production of the manju filling were provided for use in brewing. The skins give the beer a reddish color, creating a drink that connects the area’s confectionery culture with local craft beer.

Takao Beer is a small brewery based in Hachioji, Tokyo. Founded in 2017 by residents of the town at the foot of Mount Takao, the brewery describes its work as local beer made while enjoying life in Takao. It uses ingredients from surrounding areas, including malt, hops, fruit and spices, and also works to reduce waste by reusing spent grain as compost or animal feed.

“Mt. Takao Craft” offers a different way to experience a familiar local ingredient. For visitors to Mount Takao, the beer presents an opportunity to consider how a regional confectionery tradition can be carried into brewing. Details on availability and serving locations should be checked through the latest announcements from Takao Beer and Yuki-do Honten.