Shogun Star Anna Sawai Fronts Hibiki Whisky's New Campaign

Anna Sawai, the acclaimed star of "Shogun," has been appointed as the inaugural global ambassador for Hibiki Whisky, a distinguished expression from The House of Suntory. This marks a significant collaboration, with Sawai featured in the brand's first worldwide campaign, titled "The Masterpiece of Japanese Artistry." The campaign underscores the deep connections between traditional Japanese crafts, specifically kimono-making and whisky blending, highlighting shared values of time, precision, and artistry.

The visuals for the campaign feature Sawai in a bespoke kimono from Chiso, Japan's oldest kimono house, adorned with motifs reflecting Japanese landscapes. This design subtly echoes Hibiki's signature kokimurasaki hue. The whisky bottles themselves are distinguished by handcrafted washi labels created by artist Eriko Horiki, a tradition upheld since 1989. Sawai's involvement emphasizes her role as a bridge between traditional Japanese culture and contemporary global influence.

Sawai expressed her admiration for the meticulous dedication inherent in Japanese artistry, noting that "It's not about being the loudest or the shiniest; it's about the details and the stillness." She finds parallels between the nuanced, variable taste of Hibiki Whisky and the personal nature of her acting craft. The House of Suntory announced that this extensive global campaign is scheduled to run through 2026 across various markets and media platforms. As part of the campaign, a striking kimono installation is planned for JFK Airport, timed with the launch of its new international hub, Terminal One.