The story of Kirin Ichiban began in 1869 in Yokohama, when the Kirin Brewery Company was established as Japan's first government-owned brewery, making Kirin today the oldest beer brand in the country. Since then, Kirin has developed into a global brand and is now part of the Mitsubishi Group. The name "Kirin," introduced in 1888, is derived from a mythical creature that is half horse and half dragon and is considered a symbol of good luck in Japanese culture. "Ichiban" means "number one" and emphasizes the brewery's commitment to offering the highest quality and unique taste.