Utaro Hashimoto

Utaro Hashimoto (born March 25, 1869 (Meiji 2, May 6) – July 7, 1938 (Showa 13)) was a Japanese businessman who served as a managing director of Dai Nippon Beer (now Sapporo Beer). He was born in Hishimoji Village, Shimoda District, Okayama Prefecture (present-day Soja City, Hishimoji). After graduating from Tokyo Technical School (now Tokyo University of Technology), he joined Nippon Beer Co., Ltd.

Birth and Family Background

Utaro Hashimoto was born into a samurai family in Hishimoji Village, Kibi District, Okayama Prefecture (now Soja City, Hishimoji). His father was Genzaemon Hashimoto, and his grandfather was Ryuugo Hashimoto, who served as Prime Minister of Japan. His family belonged to a prestigious lineage that included Prime Minister Ryutaro Hashimoto, Kochi Prefecture Governor Daijiro Hashimoto, and House of Representatives member Takeshiro Hashimoto. Many politicians and bureaucrats have emerged from his family.

Youth and Education

Born into a farming family, he made a living by making straw sandals and traveling to earn his way. In 1887 (Meiji 20), at age 20, he moved to Tokyo and studied hard. In Tokyo, he worked part-time delivering newspapers and milk, and endured hunger by chewing on snow. To cope with the cold, he wrapped himself in newspapers and futons.

Education

He graduated in 1894 (Meiji 27) from Tokyo Technical School (later Tokyo Higher Technical School, now Tokyo Institute of Technology), majoring in mechanical engineering.

Career and Achievements

After graduation, he joined Nippon Beer Co., Ltd. (later Dai Nippon Beer). In 1900 (Meiji 33), he was dispatched to various European countries to observe brewing techniques, supported by Kyōhei Magoe. He also traveled again to Europe to purchase brewing machinery.

Development of Dai Nippon Beer

In 1906 (Meiji 39), Sapporo Beer, Osaka Beer, and Nippon Beer merged to form Dai Nippon Beer Co., Ltd. Utaro continued to serve as head of the machinery department and chief engineer, focusing on technical aspects.

As a Business Leader

In 1919 (Taisho 8), he was appointed director, and from 1921 (Taisho 10), he served as managing director, participating in corporate management. As a technical executive, he played a central role in the organization, contributing to yeast handling in beer production and factory operations.

Personality and Evaluation

According to "Meiji-Taisho Jinbutsu-shi," Utaro was characterized by a gentle and harmonious personality, sincerity, and a calm, composed demeanor. He also had hobbies such as painting, calligraphy, and antiques, which he indulged in during his leisure time.

Family and Personal Life

He is said to have married through an introduction by Kyōhei Magoe, and with his wife, Mado, he had eight children. His eldest sons were given names featuring specific characters such as "Uchuu" (universe), "Ken" (dry), "Kun" (earth), "Ryu" (dragon), and "Tora" (tiger).

Death

Utaro Hashimoto passed away on July 7, 1938 (Showa 13).