Hidetoshi Nakata has never been one to follow the script. Once Japan’s most celebrated footballer, he shocked the world by retiring at the peak of his career. But what looked like an abrupt exit was, in fact, the start of something far more ambitious.
Since hanging up his boots in 2006, Nakata has traveled the world, traversed all 47 of Japan’s prefectures, and immersed himself in the country’s rich heritage. His journey led him to an unexpected passion: sake. Over the years, he has visited more than 450 breweries, earned his “Master of Sake” certification, and launched the Japan Craft Sake Company (JCSC) to modernise the industry and bring premium Japanese craftsmanship to the world stage.
In fact, Hidetoshi Nakata’s vision extends far beyond the beverage. He is rethinking supply chains, sustainability, and the global perception of Japanese culture. He developed Sakenomy, an app that helps consumers navigate the complex world of sake, and introduced blockchain tracking to ensure every bottle reaches consumers in peak condition. His bespoke sake label, N by Hidetoshi Nakata, has found a home in fine-dining establishments worldwide, challenging the notion that sake is limited to Japanese cuisine.
Today, Nakata is turning his attention to other traditional industries — tea, ceramics, textiles — finding ways to preserve and promote Japan’s artisanal legacy. His latest venture, Hanaahu, introduces cold-brew teas designed for pairing with gourmet meals, further proving his ability to merge heritage with innovation.
An eloquent speaker with a global perspective, Hidetoshi Nakata brings fresh insights into leadership, reinvention, and the intersection of tradition and modernity. Whether discussing sustainability, entrepreneurship, or the business of culture, he draws from a lifetime of firsthand experiences. Having spent years as both an elite athlete and an industry disruptor, Nakata offers a unique lens on adapting to change, thinking globally, and finding success outside conventional paths.
