Visit behind the Scenes: Hiroshima Saijo Sake Brewery Tour

Higashihiroshima, JP
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (13 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    · Experience fees ・Sake tasting fees (partial) · Souvenirs・ Insurance

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Transportation to the meeting point

Meeting Point

Near the Higashihiroshima City Tourist Information Center outside the Saijo Station ticket gate

Meeting point

12-3 Saijohonmachi, Higashihiroshima, Hiroshima 739-0011 , Japan

End point

End Point

Near the Higashihiroshima City Tourist Information Center outside the Saijo Station ticket gate

Meeting point

12-3 Saijohonmachi, Higashihiroshima, Hiroshima 739-0011 , Japan

End point

What to expect

1

Mitate Shrine

14:05~14:30 Mitate Shrine Mitate Shrine enshrines the deity of sake and has been cherished by the sake brewers of Saijo for generations. Representatives from the seven breweries gather here to pray before the sake brewing season begins. Since ancient times, Japanese people have celebrated the abundant harvest of rice, used it to brew sake, and offered it to the gods as an expression of gratitude. One essential offering to the gods is omiki—sacred sake made from this precious rice. Here, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the connection between sake and Japan's cultural and spiritual traditions.

Duration 25 minutes
2
Kamotsuru Sake Brewery

14:30~15:00 Kamotsuru Sake Brewing Co. Ltd(Sake museum shop) At Kamotsuru Sake museum shop, you can learn about the process of sake brewing through unique displays and exhibits. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to sample Junmai Daiginjo Hiroshima Nishiki, a premium sake served to world leaders during the “Working Dinner” at the 2023 G7 Hiroshima Summit. Furthermore, you can taste the well water used for sake brewing, drawn from the Fukujin Well, which is open to the public at this location.

Duration 30 minutes
3
Hakubotan Brewery

15:10~16:00 Hakubotan Sake Brewery Hakubotan Brewery boasts a rich history of over 350 years. At Hakubotan, brewery staff will give you a special factory tour of the Tenpo Brewery, which is usually not open to the public. Here, you’ll also enjoy a tasting of frozen namazake (unpasteurized sake) – sake frozen immediately after pressing to preserve its freshness and flavor.

Duration 50 minutes
4

Sanyotsuru Brewery Inc.

16:15~17:00 Sanyotsuru Sake Brewery In the charming, traditional interior of Sanyotsuru Brewery, you’ll participate in a unique calligraphy experience. Using spring water from Mount Ryuo and sumi ink, along with traditional Kumano brushes, you will write meaningful words on a sake label while reflecting on your journey in Saijo. This original label will be attached to a sake bottle, resulting in a one-of-a-kind creation. You can take this unique bottle as a souvenir. This activity, called “Tipsy Calligraphy,” invites you to freely express your thoughts and emotions in a relaxed and enjoyable state.

Duration 45 minutes

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

  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    There will be sake tasting and comparisons. If you are under 20 years old or unable to consume alcohol, please inform us when booking.
Provided by みちしるべ

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try the frozen namazake at Hakubotan.
  • icon
    Visit Mitate Shrine for sake blessings.
  • icon
    Sample well water at Kamotsuru Brewery.
  • icon
    Public transport is nearby for easy access.
  • icon
    Take your custom label as a unique souvenir.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the essence of Japanese culture on the Hiroshima Saijo Sake Tasting and Calligraphy Tour. This 3-hour guided tour will take you on a journey through Saijo's rich sake brewing tradition, allowing you to taste unique sakes and immerse yourself in the art of calligraphy.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can anticipate a unique and immersive experience that will deepen your understanding of sake brewing and calligraphy. You will visit three sake breweries, taste their distinct sakes, and engage in a special calligraphy activity using traditional materials. This tour offers a hands-on experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and hospitality.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for travelers who are interested in Japanese culture, sake enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the art of calligraphy. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Japan, this tour offers a blend of history, tradition, and hands-on activities that will appeal to a wide range of audiences.

Why book this?

Embark on this tour to discover the authentic spirit of Japanese hospitality and craftsmanship. From tasting unique sakes to creating your own sake label through calligraphy, this experience will provide you with a deeper insight into the cultural significance of sake brewing in Saijo. Immerse yourself in the traditions of Japan and create lasting memories with this one-of-a-kind tour.

Good to know

As you participate in this tour, remember to bring your curiosity and enthusiasm for learning about Japanese culture. The tour includes experience fees, sake tasting fees (partial), souvenirs, and insurance. Please note that transportation to the meeting point is not included, so plan your journey accordingly. The tour concludes near the Higashihiroshima City Tourist Information Center outside the Saijo Station ticket gate.

Reviews

Travelers who have embarked on the Hiroshima Saijo Sake Tasting and Calligraphy Tour have praised its immersive experience and the opportunity to learn about sake brewing and calligraphy firsthand. Participants have highlighted the unique sakes tasted, the engaging calligraphy activity, and the warm hospitality experienced throughout the tour. Overall, reviews have been positive, with many travelers recommending this tour for those seeking a deeper connection to Japanese culture.

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