Kaemizu (changing the soaking water)

Kaemizu (替え水) refers to replacing the water while polished rice is soaking. The process is also called "tsukekae" (漬替え). Changing the water allows starch and impurities in the rice to dissolve out into the water, which improves the flavor and quality of the sake. It has the same effect as kakenagashi (soaking with running water) and is an important step in brewing a cleaner, clearer sake. Changing the water appropriately makes the rice absorb water evenly and helps give the sake a well-balanced flavor.