Settaya・Miyauchi Area

The Settaya district has a long-standing reputation for the production of sake and fermented foods, due in part to the area’s advantageous climate and the accessibility of high-quality ingredients. Settaya is a testament to the tenacity of Nagaoka and the revitalization efforts of the community, having survived the firebombing of World War II and successfully recovered from the damage wreaked by the 2004 Chuetsu earthquake. As a result, centuries-old breweries have been able to continue their manufacturing processes, using techniques passed down through generations and operating in some of the same buildings used by family ancestors.

Since Settaya’s brewing industry began in the sixteenth century, its reputation as a “brewing town” has developed and evolved with the times. Today, products manufactured or sold in shops throughout the district include traditional items such as sake, miso, saffron liqueur, and soy sauce, alongside newer products such as koji-based marinade and craft beer. Additionally, various dishes and sweets made with these products can be enjoyed at local restaurants and cafes.