プライベートツアーで鹿児島で愛されている蒸留酒を発見しましょう。
Non-refundable - Your booking can not be cancelled, modified or refunded.
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Highlights
- Tour a shochu factory and enjoy tastings
- Customizable sightseeing tour with private driver and guide
- Visit the southernmost whisky distillery in Japan
- Explore the old Honbo family guest house
- Whisky and shochu tasting available for a fee
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Duration 6 hours
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Private transportation included
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English-speaking guide
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Customizable itinerary
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Shochu tasting included
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Bottled water provided
Embark on a journey to discover the native spirits of Kagoshima with a unique tour that combines whisky tasting, a shochu factory tour, and customizable sightseeing in one of Japan's leading shochu-producing regions. Visit the Mars Tsunuki Distillery to learn about the production process and history of Honbo Shuzo's liquor making, and enjoy traditional Japanese architecture at the old Honbo family guest house. Taste a variety of whiskies and shochus, and explore the gift shop for unique local products. With a private driver and guide, create your perfect itinerary to explore the sights that interest you the most. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Kagoshima on this unforgettable tour.
At a Glance
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6 hours
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Adults only
Explore Kagoshima's rich culture and shochu heritage on a personalized 6-hour tour, complete with tastings and expert guidance.
Included
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Private transportationPrivate transportation
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OtherDomestic Travel Accident Insurance
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OtherGuide in-person
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Bottled waterBottled water
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OtherCustomizable tour of 2-3 sites selected from your “What to Expect” list
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In-vehicle air conditioningAir-conditioned vehicle
Excluded
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OtherOther personal expenses
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OtherMeal expenses for yourself and guide and driver
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GratuitiesGratuities
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OtherSenganen Admission Fee
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OtherSunamushi Kaikan Sunaraku Admission fee and rental of bath towels, etc.
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OtherChiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots Admission Fee
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OtherChiran Samurai Residence Garden Admission Fee
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OtherVehicles with special equipment that allows passengers to board while in a wheelchair
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Sengan-en is a Japanese style stately home and landscape garden along the coast north of downtown Kagoshima. Sengan-en was built in 1658 as one of the residences of the powerful Shimadzu clan. One of the garden's most striking features is its use of active volcano Sakurajima and Kagoshima Bay as borrowed scenery. The gardens cover 50,000 square meters and include calming ponds, bubbling streams, mysterious shrines, a bamboo grove, and a mountain hiking trail. Visit Tsurugane Shrine and pray to become more beautiful, or the unusual Cat Shrine and pray for the health and longevity of your feline friend! The expansive house provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of one of Japan’s most influential feudal lords, and hosted Edward VIII of the UK and Nicholas II of Russia among others. See the rooms that the lord spent his daily life in and enjoy the view of the gardens and scenery beyond as only a samurai lord could.
Iso Kogeikan
Satsuma Kiriko Glassworks・Iso Kogei-kan You can watch the manufacturing process of Satsuma Kiriko Cut-glass here as well as buy pieces at the neighboring Iso Kogei-kan. Chinese overlaying coloured glass techniques were fused with European glass cutting methods to produce this delicate and graceful cut glass masterpiece. Developed by the 28th lord of Satsuma, Shimazu Nariakira, the technique faded out with his death for a period. However, more than a hundred years later, the mysterious and beautiful sparkle was revived and came to be known nation-wide as a representative craftwork of Kagoshima.
Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle Ruins & Goromon
Satsuma domain. This castle gate, the largest one of this kind in Japan with its height and width of 20 meters, was restored in 2020 for the first time in about 150 years.
Sakurajima Visitor Center Learn the history of Sakurajima's volcanic eruptions through films and dioramas. A base facility of the Geopark. You can shop a diverse lineup of specialty goods and souvenirs.
Sakurajima Lava Nagisa Promenade
"Sakurajima" Yougan Nagisa Park Public Footbath A 100 meters long footbath, one of the biggest in Japan. Enjoy the all-natural hot spring while gazing up at Sakurajima.
Yunohira Lookout
Yunohira Observatory is the highest point on Mt. Sakurajima open to the general public. From the observatory, you can see a rough lava field and, at times, rising plumes of volcanic smoke. This spot commands a picturesque view of Kagoshima City and the calm waters of Kinko Bay. The night brings a beautiful view in which the pitch dark of Mt. Sakurajima contrasts with the lights of Kagoshima City. Taking inspiration from the name Sakurajima (cherry blossom island), the roof over the observation deck is shaped like a cherry blossom petal.
Arimura Lava Lookout
The observatory is located along a 1-km trail on a small hill in the lava field created by the great 1946 eruption. From here there is a clear view of impressive Sakurajima, the world famous active volcano, and Kinko Bay. As the observatory is close to the crater of the steep, cone shaped South Peak, you may hear roaring or explosive sounds from the crater that give quite a different impression of Sakurajima.
Saraku Sand Bath Hall
Hot Sand Baths "Saraku" One of the most unique natural health and beauty treatments in the world today! Loved by local people for over 350 years, our hot sand baths are great for body detoxification and increased circulation, which are now known to be 3-4 times greater than those of conventional hot-springs. Lying on the hot sand, with the sound of the sea in the background, is a relaxation that you will not soon forget. It will leave you feeling thoroughly refreshed, with body and mind cleansed and a smile on your face.
Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots (Chiran Peace Museum) A Testament to the Importance of Worldwide Peace To tell a true story for future generations and to wish for eternal world peace, the Chiran Peace Museum for Kamikaze Pilots collects, preserves, and displays the belongings, final letters, and documents which were left behind by the members of the army special attack corps, who died at the battle of Okinawa at the end of the Greater East Asia War (called the Pacific War after rhw war). Each of the farewell notes and relics displayed show the absurdity of war as well as the pilot's feelings, and make us recall the importance of peace, our lives, and family bonds. Chiran is a town in which the army's special air attack base was located toward the end of the Pacific War. At the Chiran Peace Museum, valuable records and materials, such as deceased soldiers' portraits and their belongings, are collected, preserved and displayed.
Chiran Samurai Residence Complex Nicknamed the "Little Kyoto of Satsuma", Chiran is home to more than 500 samurai residences during the late Edo period (19th century). As the original buildings of the complex are well-preserved, one can get to witness a real, Edo Period Samurai settlement here. The charm of the Chiran Samurai Residence Complex lies in the 700m stonewall-lined paths, the scattered Samurai houses and the beautifully landscaped gardens within. Built with defense purposes in mind, the paths are neither too wide nor too narrow, and there are many corners and bents to reduce visibility (of potential invaders). Furthermore, the hedges (behind the stone walls of the houses) are pruned in such a way that one inside the house can see the outside clearly, but not the other way round. As such, it is possible to ambush invaders with arrows and spears without exposing one's location.
Musougura
Satsuma Musou Shochu Distillery "Muso Gura" Musokura offers tours of the shochu manufacturing process, where visitors can see how shochu is actually made and learn about the appeal of shochu. The traditions of handicrafts and earthenware making that have been passed down for generations still live on today. Tours of the manufacturing process and free tastings of shochu made in the brewery are available. Shochu is also available for purchase. Closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Mars Tsunuki Distillery
The southern most whisky distillery on the main Japanese islands At the Mars Tsunuki Distillery you can see the old still tower buildings, and the stone barrel warehouse, as well as take a tour of the production process, and see the history of Honbo Shuzo's story of liquor making. At the old Honbo family guest house called 'Hojo' built in 1933, you can enjoy a traditional Japanese residence and its garden which changes its appearance season to season, day to day, moment to moment. Whisky and shochu tasing is available for a fee, and liquor and a selection of original products, and local products are available at the gift shop. Does not include tasting fee. When Satsuma Shochu Distillery"Muso Gura" is closed (Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays), we will guide you to Mars Tsunuki Distillery.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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20+ can participate shochu (Japanese traditional hard liquor) tasting.
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Angina, lung disease
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Heart disease, arrhythmia
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High blood pressure (180/100mmHg or higher)
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In Japan, drinking alcohol under the age of 20 is prohibited by law.
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Inflammation, fever
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Please read this before entering the sand baths and hot spring baths.
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Pregnancy, menstruation
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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There are no special devices that allow wheelchairs to be boarded. Wheelchairs brought by customers can be stored in the trunk or inside the vehicle.
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Those with pacemakers are also not permitted to bathe.
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Try the hot sand baths at Saraku.
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Visit nearby Sengan-en garden.
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Sample local dishes at nearby Izakayas.
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Check out Musougura distillery for tastings.
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Capture sunset views from Yunohira Lookout.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Embark on a journey to discover the native spirits of Kagoshima with this unique and customizable sightseeing tour. Explore the traditional Japanese hard liquor, shochu, and indulge in tastings at a renowned shochu factory. Delve into the world of Japanese whiskey with a fascinating factory tour and tasting experience. Whether you're a spirits enthusiast or a curious traveler seeking authentic cultural experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in Kagoshima.
What to Expect?
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors and history of shochu and Japanese whiskey as you visit the leading producers in Kagoshima. Enjoy a personalized sightseeing tour with a private guide and driver, allowing you to choose from a selection of attractions that pique your interest. Experience the art of distillation, explore historic distilleries, and savor unique tasting experiences that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for Japan's native spirits.
Who is this for?
This tour caters to spirits enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and anyone with a taste for authentic experiences. Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur, a history buff, or someone looking to delve into Japanese traditions, this tour offers something for everyone. From samurai history to cultural landmarks, this customizable tour ensures that every traveler finds something that resonates with their interests.
Why Book This?
Uncover the secrets of Kagoshima's native spirits with a tour that combines history, culture, and unique tasting experiences. From the traditional shochu distilleries to the modern whiskey factories, this tour offers a comprehensive insight into Japan's renowned spirits. With a private guide and driver at your disposal, you can tailor your itinerary to suit your preferences, ensuring a personalized and memorable adventure in Kagoshima.
Good to Know
Prepare to be amazed by the diverse flavors and craftsmanship of shochu and Japanese whiskey during this immersive tour. Remember to budget for tasting fees and any additional expenses not included in the tour package. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Mars Tsunuki Distillery, where you can witness the production process, enjoy tastings, and purchase unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.
Reviews
Travelers who have experienced this tour rave about the in-depth insights into Kagoshima's spirits industry and the personalized approach to sightseeing. From the knowledgeable guides to the exquisite tasting sessions, guests commend the tour for its engaging and educational content. Whether you're a spirits enthusiast or a history buff, this tour promises a memorable and immersive experience in the heart of Kagoshima.
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