Japan’s Shiga Prefecture delivers some of the best brewery experiences in the country, all within easy reach of Kyoto. The standout tours include a bike ride connecting rural villages with a historic brewery district, perfect for active travelers who love mixing culture with exercise. We especially like the half-day walking tour through the brewery town – it’s efficient and packed with information about traditional sake-making methods.
For food lovers, the Buddhist temple cooking class combined with brewery visits is a fantastic way to understand the connection between Japanese cuisine and its traditional beverages. All tours offer good value and accommodate different physical abilities.
Check out these top brewery tours in Shiga that showcase Japan’s centuries-old fermentation craft:
Key Points
- The Rural Brewery Town Experience in Kinomoto, Shiga offers private half-day tours to two sake producers and one soy sauce maker, with a rating of 5.0 based on 6 reviews.
- The Cultural Cooking Tour in Shiga includes a traditional cooking workshop with seasonal ingredients and visits to a Buddhist temple and a brewery town, priced at $191.31 per person.
- The Private Cycling Tour in Shiga begins at JR Maibara Station and ends at Kinomoto Station, with a duration of 1 day and a rating of 4.9/5 from 11 reviews.
- The brewery tours and cooking tour in Shiga are suitable for most travelers, including those with strollers, while the cycling tour is recommended for moderate fitness levels.
- Advance booking is recommended for all tours in Shiga, with flexible cancellation policies for the Brewery Town tour and non-refundable policies for the Cycling and Cooking tours.
Rural Villages & Brewery Town: Private 1-Day Cycling Near Kyoto
Explore the picturesque countryside of Shiga Prefecture on a private 1-day cycling tour near Kyoto. This highly-rated tour (4.9/5 from 11 reviews) takes cyclists through rural villages and a traditional brewery town, offering a unique glimpse into Japan’s cultural heartland.
Priced from $185.21 per person, the tour includes a professional guide, bicycle rental, and all necessary fees and taxes.
Travelers will start at JR Maibara Station and end at Kinomoto Station, with the option to use a JR Pass if applicable. The tour begins at 9 AM and lasts the full day, with a provided light refreshment and lunch.
Cyclists will also have the opportunity to enjoy a complementary alcoholic beverage tasting, though other drinks must be purchased separately.
This cycling adventure is best suited for those with moderate fitness levels, as the terrain can be challenging. The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, and those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions are advised to reconsider.
Read our full review: Rural Villages & Brewery Town: Private 1-Day Cycling Near Kyoto Review
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Rural Brewery Town Walk: Half-Day Private Tour Near Kyoto
This private half-day tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of Kinomoto, a rural brewery town nestled near Kyoto. Guests will visit three specialty breweries – two sake producers and one soy sauce maker – for behind-the-scenes tours and tastings.
The knowledgeable local guide provides insights into the intricate fermentation processes that give these artisanal products their unique flavors. Along the way, the tour also includes a visit to a local temple, offering a glimpse into the spiritual side of the community.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers, including those with strollers. Infants can sit on their parents’ laps during the activities.
With a 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, this experience is praised for its personalized touch and the guide’s in-depth local knowledge. Priced at $102.49 per person, the tour offers a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option, making it an accessible and flexible choice for those seeking an immersive brewery experience in rural Japan.
Read our full review: Rural Brewery Town Walk: Half-Day Private Tour Near Kyoto Review
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Buddhist Temple Cooking and Brewery Town Walk Near Kyoto
Visitors seeking a more immersive cultural experience in the Shiga region can embark on a Buddhist Temple Cooking and Brewery Town Walk.
This private tour, starting at 9 AM, allows participants to explore a local Buddhist temple and learn traditional cooking techniques. During the temple cooking workshop, attendees will create a delicious lunch using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Following the cooking class, the tour continues to a nearby brewery town, where guests can enjoy sake and soy sauce tastings.
The tour price, ranging from $191.31 per person, includes a professional bilingual guide, all admission fees, and round-trip train fares.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant women.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, but note that the tour is non-refundable in case of cancellation.
This immersive cultural experience provides a unique opportunity to discover the rich heritage and local flavors of Shiga Prefecture.
Read our full review: Buddhist Temple Cooking and Brewery Town Walk Near Kyoto Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Age Restrictions for Brewery Tours?
Most brewery tours have age restrictions, typically requiring visitors to be at least 20 years old. Some tours may allow younger participants, but it’s best to check with the brewery beforehand to ensure you meet their age requirements.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?
When visiting a brewery, it’s generally allowed to bring your own snacks and drinks. However, it’s best to check with the brewery beforehand as some may have restrictions in place. Enjoying your own refreshments can enhance the tasting experience.
Do the Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Many brewery tours accommodate dietary restrictions. They often provide options for visitors with food allergies or intolerances, vegetarian/vegan preferences, and other dietary needs. Guests should inquire about available accommodations when booking their tour.
Is Photography Allowed During the Brewery Tours?
Photography is generally allowed during brewery tours, though visitors should check with the specific brewery beforehand. Most breweries welcome photos, but may have restrictions in certain areas for safety or production reasons.
What Is the Dress Code for the Brewery Visits?
The dress code for brewery visits is usually casual and comfortable. Visitors should avoid wearing open-toe shoes or sandals, as the tours may involve walking on uneven surfaces. Some breweries may request that guests wear closed-toe shoes for safety reasons.
Recap
Shiga Prefecture offers a variety of brewery tours and tastings for visitors. From cycling through rural villages to walking through a traditional brewery town, there are options to suit different interests. Visitors can also combine a brewery tour with a visit to a Buddhist temple and cooking experience. These diverse activities provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich brewing heritage of the region.