As the bridge between Japan and Luxembourg continues to strengthen, House of Japan Luxembourg stands at the forefront of cultural exchange. More than just a sake importer, the company is on a mission to introduce the depth and richness of Japanese heritage to the Luxembourgian community. Under the leadership of Founder and Director Makiko Gräfin Von Oberndorff, House of Japan is transforming the way people in Europe experience Japanese culture—not just through beverages but through an expanding array of traditional products and experiences.
Elevating sake culture in Luxembourg
House of Japan Luxembourg has distinguished itself as the leading advocate for sake appreciation in the region. By sourcing premium sake directly from Japan, the company ensures that Luxembourg’s connoisseurs and newcomers alike have access to the finest varieties available.
Yet, House of Japan’s ambitions go beyond offering high-quality sake. As the only licensed sake educator in Luxembourg, the company plays a pivotal role in deepening public knowledge of this ancient beverage. Through curated workshops, exclusive tastings, and tailored events, House of Japan fosters an environment where enthusiasts can develop an informed appreciation of sake’s complexity, history, and versatility.
A key initiative in this endeavor is the Luxembourg Sake Challenge, a premier event designed to highlight the beverage’s ability to complement a diverse range of cuisines. This gathering not only showcases an impressive selection of sake but also promotes cross-cultural dialogue, positioning sake as an integral part of Luxembourg’s evolving food scene.
A platform for cultural exchange
House of Japan Luxembourg is committed to expanding its cultural footprint beyond sake. Recognizing the growing interest in Japanese craftsmanship and lifestyle, the company is actively working on bringing a wider range of traditional products to European markets.
“I’m very passionate about promoting Japanese culture everywhere, especially in Europe. We have plans to expand and bring more Japanese products—tea, traditional craftsmanship, knives, and many other items. We want to showcase good quality and authentic products to the people,“ said Makiko Gräfin Von Oberndorff.
The company’s boutique in Luxembourg serves as a hub for cultural engagement, offering not only premium products but also an immersive experience in Japanese traditions. Whether it’s through hands-on workshops, collaborations with local artists, or partnerships with restaurants, House of Japan ensures that its offerings are accompanied by authentic cultural storytelling.
“We would like to promote Japanese culture by providing products and experiences together with Japanese culture in Luxembourg. This shop will be a place where we can start to share Japanese culture. I want Luxembourg to be the center of Japanese culture-sharing,“ Makiko added.
Expanding horizons: A vision for the future
Looking ahead, House of Japan is positioning itself as a key player in the European market for authentic Japanese goods and experiences. By maintaining a strong focus on quality, education, and community-building, the company seeks to establish Luxembourg as a hub for Japanese culture—a place where people can not only discover and enjoy sake but also explore Japan’s broader heritage.
With plans to introduce more artisanal goods and deepen its partnerships with Japanese artisans and brands, House of Japan is not merely selling products; it is crafting a cultural legacy. As Luxembourg embraces a more globalized and diverse culinary and lifestyle scene, House of Japan is poised to lead the way, ensuring that Japanese tradition finds a lasting home in Europe.
