Kirin to repurchase shares through ToSTNeT-2

TOKYO, March 7, 2005 --- At a board meeting held today, the directors of KIRIN BREWERY COMPANY, LIMITED (Kirin) resolved to repurchase ordinary Kirin shares under Article 211, Clause 3, Section 1-2 of the Commercial Code. Details of the resolution and the repurchase method are as follows.

1. Reason for repurchase

Systematic implementation of financial policies in a changing operating environment

2. Method of repurchase

Using the Tokyo Stock Exchange ToSTNeT-2 (closing price transaction) system, Kirin will at 0845 hrs on March 8, 2005 place a purchase order at 1,105 yen per ordinary Kirin share, the closing price on March 7, 2005. No other transaction methods or times will be used

3. Outline of transaction

(1) Class of shares to be repurchased	Kirin ordinary shares
(2) Maximum number of shares to be repurchased	9,000,000 shares (representing 0.91% of total shares outstanding)* 1. No change will be made in the maximum number of sharesto be repurchased. However, market conditions or other factors may mean that part or all of the purchase does not take place. 2 The specified number of shares will be repurchased on the basis of corresponding sell orders.
(3) Maximum total value of shares to be repurchased	9,945,000,000 yen

4. Announcement of results of repurchase

The results of the repurchase will be announced after completion of the transaction planned for 0845 hrs on March 8, 2005

For reference

Details of treasury shares held by Kirin as of December 31, 2004:

Total shares outstanding (excluding treasury shares)	968,573,387 shares
Treasury shares held	15,935,000 shares