The sentimental and romantic poem on this Sake Set
was written by famous Japanese poet Sugawara-no Michizane.

He wrote it before he had to leave his home, Kyoto, for an extended period of time, and was unsure when he might return. The meaning of the poem conveys how he felt at that moment.

"Kochi Fukaba Nioi Okoseyo
Ume-no Hana
Aruji Nashitote Haruna Wasureso"
---
"When the east wind blows,
it means that spring has come.
Plum flowers, please do not to forget to bloom
even though I will not be there."