Unazuki Beer Hall

Unazuki Beer Hall started in 1997 and was a pioneer in Toyama's craft beer scene. What's more, they brew with a brewmaster invited from Germany, so they're the real deal.

And the amazing part is, they grow the two-row barley used for beer themselves on the Kurobe alluvial fan. The brewing water is underground water from the Kurobe River, which was selected as one of Japan's 100 Famous Waters. A brewery that handles everything from growing the barley is pretty rare nationwide.

They have three standard beers: 'Jujikyo' is a Kölsch-style beer with a golden color, fruity character, and crisp finish. 'Trokko' is an Alt-style beer with a reddish-copper color and a toasty caramel-malt richness. 'Kamoshika' is a Bock-style beer with a strong roasted-malt sweetness and a smooth mouthfeel.

Exactly. They named them after Kurobe's nature and famous sights. They also make a rice ale called 'Premium,' which uses about 20% Toyama-grown 'Fufubo' rice. It's dry and clean on the finish, and it pairs perfectly with firefly squid and white shrimp.

And there's a unique brewing method here: they play Mozart during the mash-in. The high-frequency sounds and fluctuating waves are said to activate the yeast.

They've won multiple awards at the International Beer Competition and the National Liquor Contest, and they also won a silver medal at Monde Selection in 2011, so their quality is well proven. Since it's inside Roadside Station Unazuki, you can enjoy it at the restaurant with dishes made from local ingredients.