The Shakkanhō System The shakkanhō system is a traditional Japanese system of measurement based on units of length (shaku) and weight (kan). While it has been officially replaced by the metric system since 1959, many of its units, including "go" (合), continue to be used in everyday life, particularly in the context of traditional Japanese measurements.
What is "Ichi Go"?
"Ichi go" (一合) is a Japanese unit of volume that is equivalent to approximately 180 milliliters. It is commonly used to measure sake, but can also be used to measure other liquids.
The term "go" is derived from the shakkanhō system, a traditional Japanese system of measurement.
Other Units in the Shakkanhō System
Shaku: 1/10 of a go, approximately 18ml. Often used for measuring small quantities of sake.
Sho: 10 go, approximately 1.8 liters. Commonly used for larger quantities of sake, such as in a one-sho bottle.
To: 10 sho, approximately 18 liters. Used for measuring larger volumes, such as in sake barrels.
Koku: 10 to, approximately 180 liters. Often used to measure the annual production of sake at a brewery.
Alcohol Content of "Ichi Go" of Sake The alcohol content of one "go" of sake can vary depending on the sake's alcohol percentage. However, on average, one "go" of sake contains approximately 21.6 grams of pure alcohol.
Serving Vessels and "Ichi Go"
Ochoko: A small sake cup, typically holding 2 to 2.5 shaku.
Masu: A wooden cup, often used to measure one go of sake.
Wine glass: In recent years, sake has been increasingly enjoyed in wine glasses. When using a wine glass, half of the glass is typically filled for one serving.
Key Takeaways
The shakkanhō system, while less commonly used today, still plays a role in traditional Japanese measurements, particularly in the context of sake.
"Ichi go" is a Japanese unit of volume that is equivalent to approximately 180 milliliters.
Different serving vessels hold varying amounts of sake, and understanding these measurements can help you enjoy sake more fully.
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