Climate Change and the Shared Brewing Heritage of Japan and Thailand

At our event, you will experience an exclusive reception-style dialogue and guided tasting exploring how climate change is reshaping two iconic rice-based traditions, and how lovers of Sake and Sato can be part of the climate solution.

🗓️ Event Details

Date: Wednesday, 7th October 2026

Time: 18:00 – 20:00 (Doors open at 17:50)

Location: ASAI Bangkok Chinatown (Courtyard)

Format: Interactive Dialogue & Guided Tasting (Smart-Casual)

Admission: FREE (Pre-registration required; limited to 70 seats)

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible. English ↔ Thai interpretation available. Non-alcoholic traditional rice drinks will be served alongside alcoholic tastings so everyone can participate!

🍶 Why Attend?

Rice is the cultural and culinary heartbeat of both Japan and Thailand. It is also the sole soul of two ancient fermented traditions: Japanese Sake and Thai Sato.

However, unpredictable monsoons, rising temperatures, and shifting seasons are placing immense pressure on rice harvests, water purity, and delicate fermentation processes in both nations.

This event isn't just a panel—it’s an immersive tasting and working dialogue. You will:

• Taste with Purpose: Experience a guided tasting pairing sustainable Japanese Sake alongside contemporary Thai Sato, connecting every pour to the climate realities behind it.
• Hear Direct Producer Stories: Discover how visionary brewers—like Fukushima’s Niida Honke and Thailand's ALLURE (who upcycles fragmented jasmine rice into premium Sato)—are using regenerative farming and circular brewing to fight back against climate change.
• Join the Conversation: Participate in intimate, table-based discussions to explore how our everyday choices as consumers can help save regional food and beverage heritage.
• Celebrate Shared History: Help us kick off early celebrations leading into the 140th Anniversary of Japan–Thailand Diplomatic Relations (2027) through a shared commitment to a climate-resilient future.

🕒 Program Outline

18:00 – 18:15 Welcome & Opening Remarks

Setting the stage with Earth Sherpa and diplomatic representatives from Japan and Thailand.

18:15 – 18:25 Rice, Climate & Brewing: The Science

A fast-paced briefing on how rising temperatures impact rice, water, and fermentation in Asia by Dr. Muhammad Yaseen from Asian Institute of Technology.

18:25 – 18:50 Producers’ Stories

First-hand insights from Niida Honke (Sake) and ALLURE (Sato) on adaptation and sustainability.

18:50 – 19:10 Interactive Panel Discussion

Climate experts, government representatives, and master brewers take your questions.

19:10 – 19:25 Guided Table Tasting & Exchange

Small-group conversations paired with a guided tasting of Sake, Sato, and non-alcoholic rice options.

19:25 – 19:30 Closing Remarks

Wrap-up and key takeaways.

19:30 – 20:00 Open Networking

Connect informally with climate experts, brewers, hospitality leaders, and fellow enthusiasts.

♿️ Venure Accessibility & Guest Inclusion

Wheelchair Access: The venue at ASAI Bangkok Chinatown is wheelhair accessible.

Inclusive Tasting: Non-alcoholic traditional rice beverages (such as *amazake*-style drinks) are available.

Language & Facilitation: Ground rules support open, respectful exchange, with translation available for English ↔ Thai.

🌏 ⛰️Who is Earth Sherpa?

Earth Sherpa is a non-profit policy consulting organization based in Tokyo, Japan.

Acting as "sherpas" (guides) for change makers, we supports local communities, businesses, and grassroots leaders tackling climate change and regional economic decline.