The Origin of Mushima Barley: The Craft of a Tiny Island Brewery

Mushima Hama Brewery (Mushima, Okayama Prefecture)

A Brewery on a Remote Island in the Seto Inland Sea

Floating in the heart of the Seto Inland Sea, at the southernmost tip of Okayama Prefecture, lies the tiny island of Mushima, home to a population of fewer than 50 people. Here, you’ll find Mushima Hama Brewery, a craft brewery with a stunning seaside café where you can enjoy freshly brewed beer while gazing at the calm, blue waters.

The brewery’s signature beer is “The Origin of Mushima Barley”, a Saison-style ale. This traditional Belgian farmhouse beer was historically brewed in winter and enjoyed by farmers during the hot summer months. It boasts a fruity, aromatic depth from its malt and yeast, balanced by a crisp, dry finish—perfect for sipping by the sea on a warm day.

Reviving Mushima’s Golden Barley Fields Through Brewing

The man behind Mushima Hama Brewery is Ryuhei Iseki, a native of Osaka who moved to the island as part of a regional revitalization project. Despite Mushima’s declining population, Ryuhei saw opportunities rather than challenges. When he learned that the island was once covered in golden barley fields, he felt inspired to bring that landscape back to life by growing his own barley and brewing beer.

However, cultivating barley on Mushima proved far more challenging than expected. Due to the island’s rugged terrain, using heavy machinery was impossible, and traditional hand-threshing was the only option. “The barley husks would pierce my skin, making my whole body itch and sting. But experiencing the hardships of island life firsthand helped me connect with the locals on a deeper level,” Ryuhei recalls.

After overcoming numerous obstacles, Ryuhei refined his brewing skills under the mentorship of Kibidote Shita Brewery in Okayama City. Together, they perfected the recipe for “The Origin of Mushima Barley”, a beer that embodies the island’s spirit.

A Community-Backed Brewery with a Stunning Ocean View

Inspired by Ryuhei’s dedication, local residents came together to help construct the brewery. In 2019, Mushima Hama Brewery officially opened its doors. The compact, hands-on brewing facility features a stainless steel fermenter and a large stockpot for wort preparation. While the equipment may be small and basic compared to larger breweries, its pristine condition—maintained through meticulous cleaning—reflects Ryuhei’s unwavering commitment to quality.

“Anyone who makes the journey to Mushima is already interested in the island. That’s why I want to personally welcome each and every guest,” says Ryuhei. True to his words, the brewery exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere, embracing visitors as if they were part of the island’s extended family.

If you ever find yourself in Mushima, don’t miss the chance to experience this ultimate welcome drink—a beer that tells the story of an island’s revival.

Perfect Pairings: The Best Local Dish for This Beer!

The dry, crisp finish of The Origin of Mushima Barley Beer makes it an excellent pairing for fried foods. Ryuhei’s top recommendation? Mushima-caught yellowtail fish & chips.

The photo features deep-fried okoze (devil stinger fish)—a local delicacy. Its flesh is incredibly tender, while the bones turn crispy, making for a perfect bite. The mild, delicate flavor of white fish enhances the beer’s aromatic complexity without overpowering it.

Mushima’s fresh seafood offerings vary by season, so if you get the chance, don’t hesitate to try whatever’s available!

Author’s Note

“Discovering such a unique brewery on an island with fewer than 50 residents felt like a miracle! I still remember the awe of drinking ‘The Origin of Mushima Barley Beer’ for the first time on-site. The warm hospitality and delicious beer made me feel at home, sparking lively conversations with the island’s friendly locals.”

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