On June 17, "Keikajozo" (Hotarudani, Asamushi, Aomori City), which has a craft beer brewery and tap room, opened in the Asamushi Onsen area.

The concept of this restaurant is to brew beer with the food and climate of Asamushi Onsen in mind. Mr. Keita Maruyama, who started the shop, is the third-generation owner of Maruyama Gunpowder Shop (Aomori City), which is involved in planning and launching fireworks displays. It is said that the name of the store was named after the place called Hotarudani because Asamushi is a scenic spot for fireflies.

Mr. Maruyama likes craft beer, and it all started when he drank craft beer from Tono Brewery (Tono City, Iwate Prefecture) and was impressed. “It was easy to drink and fruity, and I wanted to make it myself,” says Maruyama. “When I was considering whether I could start a new business, my main business of making fireworks stopped due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

Mr. Maruyama said that he chose Asamushi as the location for the opening, saying, ``Because I thought there was a strong connection between beer and hot springs, and that I had a connection with the fireworks festival.'' He also said, “I want to be rooted in the community and become like a tofu shop or soy sauce shop that will continue to exist in the city.”

The store area is about 27 tsubo including the brewery. There are 8 counter seats and 4 table seats. A vacant store that used to be a bank was renovated. Places that can be used, such as the floor and the safe in the back, are left as they are, and a plastered fixtures counter is installed.

The menu includes 3-4 types of craft beer with different beer styles, including the flagship beer "Keika" (half = 700 yen, 1 pint = 1,000 yen). “Hotarubi is a pale ale with grapefruit, lime, and melon scents. It's basically the classic, so it's recommended for those who are new to craft beer,” says Maruyama. Draft beer and appetizers from Aomori's Italian restaurant "Al Centro" and Nanbu-cho's "origo", which sells canelés and bread at events, will also be available.

Mr. Maruyama talks about his future prospects, saying, "Sooner or later, I want to work on special brewing for inns." “I wish I could make a beer that can be paired with Asamushi’s main dish, seafood. I want to propose a way to enjoy it because it exists," he said enthusiastically.

Business hours are from 12:00 to 20:00. Closed on Mondays.