Sakezukuri uta (sake-making songs)

Sake-making songs (sakezukuri uta) are traditional work songs sung by kurabito (brewery workers) at each stage of the sake brewing process. These songs not only raise the spirits of the workers as they carry out their tasks, but also help set the tempo of the work to the rhythm of the music. The length of the lyrics and melody can also serve as a rough guide to how long a task takes. Sake-making songs are an important element in passing on the traditions and culture of a sake brewery, and their appeal continues undiminished in sake brewing today.