DONZO Brewing, new microbrewery to revitalize Kotohira Town

Regional Revitalization Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of the renowned Pasona Group, is rejuvenating small-town Kotohira Town, Kagawa Prefecture. June 17 marks the opening of their flagship microbrewery, “DONZO Brewing,” an integral component of their revitalization strategy nestled in the charming Shinmachi Shopping Street that leads to the historic Kotohira-gu Shrine.

As the keystone of Regional Revitalization’s Kotohira initiative, “Kotohira Stationery Store” launched back in April 2020, in a collaborative effort with the Kotohira Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Since its inception, it’s been more than a retail store. The joint venture has seen the stationery store evolve into a community hub, stimulating vibrant interactions between local residents and students from the Anabuki Academy Corporation.

Now, the unveiling of “DONZO Brewing” heralds a fresh chapter in the town’s narrative of revitalization. This venture breathes new life into a former pottery shop within the bustling shopping district, transforming it into a dynamic space that combines a craft beer outlet with a working brewery. With a menu featuring six varieties of craft beer primarily brewed in Shikoku and food designed to complement the beverages, the microbrewery offers a taste of the region’s rich flavors.

But DONZO’s vision stretches beyond the immediate present. Come this summer, beer aficionados can expect a refreshing addition – an original craft beer crafted on the premises. Furthermore, this venture weaves sustainability into its operations, planning to turn ‘spent grain’ – a byproduct of the brewing process – into ingredients for baked goods or fertilizer, reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship.

In an innovative touch, DONZO is also turning to local youth, involving them in growing wheat that will ultimately be used as a raw material for brewing beer. This initiative symbolizes Regional Revitalization Co., Ltd.’s unwavering dedication to forging stronger ties with local communities, spurring further development.

Through the introduction of the community-rooted microbrewery, Regional Revitalization Co. aspires to showcase Kotohira Town’s distinct appeal and reinvigorate the Shinmachi Shopping Street, lending a new vibrancy to the locale.