Viator Rating : 5 (621 reviews)
Kyoto
Kyoto Sake Tour: Brewery Visit & Tastings
180
Overview
Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Walking Tour takes visitors to the heart of Kyoto's renowned sake district. This tour dives into the history of sake, the brewing process, and lets you sample different local brews. Explore Fushimi Sake District, Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, Teradaya Inn, Kappa Gallery & Kizakura Memorial Hall.
What to Expect: The tour starts with a visit to the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, where exhibits explain the history of Gekkeikan and the sake-making process. Guests can sample three kinds of sake. After the museum, wander through the Fushimi district, visiting sake shops and historical sites like Teradaya Inn.
Included: Photos during the tour, admission to the Sake Museum, and a tasting of 18 kinds of sake at a sake restaurant. Anyone under 20 will receive snacks instead of sake. Not Included: Additional food and drinks are available for purchase. 
Highlights
Taste 18 Local Sakes: Enjoy a variety of sake flavors brewed in Fushimi, Kyoto.
Explore Historic Fushimi: Wander through sake shops and historical sites.
Visit Gekkeikan Sake Museum: Learn about sake history and brewing.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personalized tour.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed learning about sake brewing.
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The sake tasting was a highlight.
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The tour guide was very knowledgeable and friendly.
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Customers loved the local sake samplings.
Some found the sake museum exhibits a bit dry.
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The tour can feel crowded during peak season.
The Journey
Fushimi Sake District
Begin your exploration of Fushimi, Kyoto, in the heart of its renowned sake district, famed for its pristine water sources and time-honored brewing traditions. Here, embark on a guided sake brewery tour, immersing yourself in the art and science behind crafting this iconic Japanese beverage. Sample a variety of local brews, discovering the nuanced flavors and aromas that define Fushimi sake, while learning about the history and cultural significance of sake production in the region.
Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
Delve deeper into the world of sake at the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, dedicated to the legacy of one of Japan's most respected sake breweries. Explore exhibits that showcase the history of Gekkeikan, the traditional sake-making process, and the tools and techniques used by generations of brewers. Gain insight into the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication that goes into producing high-quality sake, and perhaps even sample some of Gekkeikan's finest offerings.
Teradaya Inn
Step back in time at the Teradaya Inn, a reconstructed ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) that stands as a poignant reminder of a tumultuous period in Japanese history. This is where Sakamoto Ryoma, a pivotal figure in the Meiji Restoration, was ambushed and narrowly escaped assassination. Explore the inn's historic rooms, imagining the events that unfolded within its walls, and pay homage to Ryoma's legacy at the nearby statue and monument. Experience the palpable atmosphere of a bygone era, where samurai intrigue and political upheaval shaped the destiny of Japan.
Kappa Gallery & Kizakura Memorial Hall
Immerse yourself in Japanese folklore and sake culture at the Kappa Gallery and Kizakura Memorial Hall. Discover the whimsical world of the kappa, a mischievous water sprite deeply embedded in Japanese mythology, through engaging exhibits that explore its origins, history, and cultural significance. Adjacent to the gallery, the Kizakura Memorial Hall offers a complementary experience, showcasing the artistry of sake brewing through displays of traditional tools and techniques. Learn about the Kizakura brewery's commitment to quality and innovation, and perhaps indulge in a tasting of their signature sakes, bridging the gap between myth and reality.
Know Before You Go
Included are photos during the tour, admission to the Sake Museum, and sake tasting of 18 kinds. Anyone under 20 gets snacks instead of sake. Not included are additional food and drinks, which are available for purchase. Meet up point is at Fushimi Sake District.
Hot Tip
Some customers have said that it is helpful to eat a full meal before the sake tasting for the best experience. Wear comfortable shoes for walking as you will be walking around the Fushimi district.
Review Summary
Customers generally say the Kyoto Sake Brewery & Tasting Walking Tour is highly informative and enjoyable, praising the knowledgeable guides, the variety of sake tastings, and the small-group experience. Many highlight the visit to the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum and the opportunity to sample 18 different sakes as standout features. A few reviewers mention that the walking portions can be a bit tiring, and some note that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
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