Sustained by Nature and Water
At Suntory, we believe in doing more than just offering products; we recognize it is our responsibility to make a positive impact on those around us, and to give back to nature and society.
We acknowledge that our high level of craftsmanship is only possible through the gifts of nature, particularly water, and so we are committed to efforts that keep water pure and abundant for future generations and create harmony within our communities through the humanities. This is the legacy of our founder, Shinjiro Torii, who believed that success is only real when it is shared. We owe ours to nature, to our customers, our employees, and our communities. Giving back is our way of saying thank you.
Japan is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and, most notably, its incredible snow. The country’s mountains, particularly in regions like Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, are blanketed with some of the deepest and most consistent snowfall in the world.*1
This snow isn’t just a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders—it’s a vital natural resource that sustains life, ecosystems, and industries. For Suntory, Japan’s snow is a hidden hero behind its pristine water sources, which form the foundation of its array of beverages.
Japan’s Snowfall: A Natural Treasure of Freshwater
Japan’s snowfall is legendary, with some regions receiving up to 15 meters (approximately 600 inches) of snow annually. The Japanese Alps, for instance, are among the snowiest places on Earth, thanks to the unique weather patterns*2 created by cold Siberian air masses colliding with moisture from the Sea of Japan. This phenomenon, known as the "Japan Sea Snow Effect," results in heavy, dry powder snow that blankets the mountains each winter.
This snow doesn’t just disappear come spring—it plays a critical role in Japan’s water cycle. As the snow slowly melts, it feeds rivers, streams, and underground aquifers, ensuring a steady supply of fresh water throughout the year.
In fact, Japan’s snowmelt contributes significantly to the country’s immense natural freshwater reserves, which are among the most abundant in the world. According to the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism, snowmelt accounts for approximately 30% of Japan’s total freshwater resources, making it a cornerstone of the nation’s water security.*3
The Pristine Water Behind Suntory’s Beverages
The Pristine Water Behind Suntory’s Beverages
In Japan’s high mountains, the snowmelt slowly seeps through the purifying soil and granite rock, picking up the unique minerals.
For Suntory, water is more than just an ingredient—it’s the essence of its craft. From the distinguished flavors of its whiskies to the refreshing purity of Suntory Tennensui(Natural Mineral Water), the quality of Suntory’s products is deeply rooted in the pristine water, which is a gift from Japan’s natural landscapes.
Protecting Water Resources
Suntory recognizes that protecting water starts with understanding the natural flow of ground water, which varies in each region, and by enhancing water resource cultivation. Across Japan, we have established over 12,000 hectares of Natural Water Sanctuaries, where activities focus on forest maintenance, soil enrichment, and harmonious water management. Through these initiatives, Suntory helps maintain the healthy natural water cycle that delivers the exceptional quality essential to its craftsmanship.
Suntory's dedication to protecting water resources has expanded beyond Japan, extending to regions including the U.S., Scotland, Spain, France, and Mexico. Additionally, our efforts are strengthened by the Mizuiku program—an education program for nature and water, which promotes the importance of water to future generations. We aim to ensure that both people and nature thrive, sustained by water.
Click HERE to learn more about our passion for water.
Sources:
- *1 The Weather Channel. (2025). Japan Sees Near World Record Snowfall Thanks To Several Feet Of Sea-Effect Snow.
- *2 Japan Meteorological Agency. (2022). Climate Change Monitoring Report.
- *3 Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. (2022).
Recent trend of water resources (Climate Change, Integrated Water Resource Management).
