Yawaragi mizu (water served alongside sake)

Yawaragi mizu (literally "softening water") is water drunk alongside sake while enjoying it. It is generally recommended to drink the same amount of water as sake, which helps soften the absorption of alcohol and prevents dehydration. Soft water of a similar hardness to the water used in brewing the sake, or softer, is considered ideal. Yawaragi mizu also helps reset the palate, making it easier to distinguish the flavors of different sakes more clearly. It is also considered effective in preventing a bad hangover, and is an important element of enjoying sake in a healthy way.