The booming craft beer scene in Tokyo offers two exceptional tour experiences that stand above the rest.
I love the intimate Sommelier Guided Pairing (2.5 hours, 15 people max) for its thoughtful combination of five local craft beers with traditional Japanese dishes – the wagyu and Okinawan specialties are outstanding. The Craft Beer Tasting (3 hours, 5 people max) gets my vote for serious beer enthusiasts, offering deep insights into Japanese drinking customs along with five carefully selected pairings.
Both tours include English guides, transportation, and all tastings. The small group sizes ensure personal attention, and you’ll learn proper Japanese table manners along the way.
Browse our selected tours below to find your perfect Tokyo beer adventure.
Key Points
- Sommelier-guided craft beer pairing experience showcases 5 unique Japanese beers alongside a menu of wagyu, Okinawan cuisine, and Uji matcha cheesecake.
- Intimate 3-hour craft beer tasting event limited to 5 participants features 5 beer pairings with Japanese meats, cheeses, and desserts.
- Transportation from Sugamo Station, accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers, with certain medical conditions restricting participation.
- Sommelier pairing experience priced per participant, craft beer tasting event priced at Kč 2,918 with reserve-now-pay-later and free cancellation options.
- Highlights include expertly crafted local beers paired with wagyu beef, regional Okinawan dishes, and traditional Uji matcha cheesecake.
Sommelier Guided Pairing: Regional Japanese Food & Craft Beer
The sommelier-guided pairing experience takes travelers on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of regional Japanese cuisine and expertly-crafted local beers.
Set in Tokyo, this 2.5-hour event features a selection of five unique Japanese craft beers expertly paired with a menu highlighting specialties from across the country.
Guests will start with wagyu beef cutlets accompanied by a Japanese craft lager made from Koshihikari rice. The main course features an Okinawan dish paired with a red miso beer from Nagoya. For dessert, you will savor a Uji matcha cheesecake from Kyoto.
The experience is limited to 15 travelers to ensure an intimate, personalized pairing journey.
Transportation is provided, with the tour meeting and ending at Sugamo Station. The event is wheelchair and stroller accessible, though not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with certain medical conditions.
Booking confirmation is received upon reservation, with a pay-later option available.
Read our full review: Sommelier Guided Pairing: Regional Japanese Food & Craft Beer Review
Book now: Check availability
Tokyo: Craft Beer Tasting With a Sommelier
For travelers seeking a deeper exploration of Japan’s thriving craft beer scene, the Tokyo: Craft Beer Tasting with a Sommelier experience offers an intimate, guided journey through the diverse flavors and styles of expertly-curated local brews.
Lasting 3 hours and limited to just 5 participants, this immersive tasting showcases 5 craft beer pairings hand-selected by a certified beer sommelier. Guests will sample these pairings alongside wagyu beef, Japanese cheese, matcha desserts, and other delectable local fare, all while learning about Japanese drinking culture and table etiquette.
Priced at Kč 2,918 per person, the experience includes an English-speaking guide, all food and drinks, and transportation to the event location from the meeting point.
Bookings are available with a reserve-now-pay-later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an accessible and flexible way to elevate one’s craft beer knowledge in the heart of Tokyo.
Read our full review: Tokyo: Craft Beer Tasting With a Sommelier Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Beer to the Tastings?
It’s generally not allowed to bring your own beer to tastings. Most establishments require you to purchase their selection of craft beers for the tasting experience. Check with the specific tour or tasting venue about their policies before attending.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most craft beer tours and tastings have age restrictions, usually requiring participants to be at least 20 years old. Guests should check with the tour operator to confirm the age policy before booking.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Tours?
The amount of walking varies across different tours, but participants can typically expect to do some walking to visit the various brewing facilities and tasting rooms. Many tours try to minimize extensive walking where possible.
Can I Purchase Beer to Take Home?
Yes, many craft beer tours and tastings in Tokyo allow visitors to purchase beer to take home. Participants can often buy bottles, cans, or growlers of the beers sampled during the tour or tasting.
Are the Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
Many beer tour providers strive to be accessible for people with disabilities. They often offer accommodations like wheelchair-friendly transport and allow visitors to sample beers at their own pace. It’s best to inquire about specific accessibility features when booking a tour.
Recap
Tokyo’s craft beer scene offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant food and drink culture. Guided tours and tastings led by expert sommeliers provide an insider’s perspective on pairing regional Japanese cuisine with innovative local brews. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious to learn more, these experiences offer a delightful way to learn about Tokyo’s thriving culinary landscape.