Translation guide
In Japanese, warmed sake is most commonly called 熱燗 (atsukan), but there are several temperature-specific terms. The general concept of warming sake is expressed by the verb 燗をつける (kan o tsukeru).
The most common way to refer to warmed sake in general, without specifying exact temperature.
Japanese sake culture distinguishes several precise warming levels. These terms are used by connoisseurs and at specialized sake bars.
Lukewarm sake, around 40°C. A gentle warmth that brings out subtle flavors.
How to say 'to warm sake' or 'warming sake' as an action.
The standard phrase meaning 'to warm sake'. Used both at home and in restaurants.
Warm the sake.
In a restaurant, you can simply say 「熱燗ください」(atsukan kudasai) for hot sake. If you want a specific temperature, use the term (e.g., 「ぬる燗で」). Many places will ask 「燗はどうしますか？」(How about warming it?) when you order sake.
High-quality ginjo and daiginjo sake are usually served chilled to preserve delicate aromas. Warming is typically for robust, full-bodied sake like junmai or honjozo. Asking for hot daiginjo may be seen as unusual.
The standard word for hot sake, typically served around 50°C. This is the most common term used in restaurants and daily conversation.
Please give me some hot sake.
Hot sake is delicious on a cold day.
A general term for warmed sake, often used in menus or when discussing sake serving temperatures.
Please tell me dishes that go well with warmed sake.
Lukewarm sake brings out the aroma.
Body-temperature sake, around 35°C. Very mild warmth.
Enjoying it slowly at body temperature.
Warm sake, around 45°C. Slightly warmer than lukewarm.
Warm sake, please.
Very hot sake, around 55°C or higher. Intense heat, often for robust sake types.
Very hot sake warms you up.
Could you warm the sake for me?
A slightly more polite or formal way to say 'to warm sake', often used by staff.
We will warm the sake and wait for you.