In Japan’s sake country, Hiroshima offers some of the country’s best drinking experiences. The city’s izakaya (pub-style) tours combine local food and drink in an intimate setting, while expert guides make sense of it all in English.
My favorite option runs through Saijo district, where centuries-old sake breweries open their doors for tastings. The full-day brewery tours are particularly worthwhile – you’ll visit 4-6 producers and learn the traditional methods that make Hiroshima sake special.
I especially appreciate the cultural combo tours that pair traditional tea ceremonies with sake tastings – it’s a perfect mix of old and new Japan.
For those short on time, the evening izakaya crawls deliver an authentic slice of local nightlife, complete with Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) and plenty of sake samples.
Let’s explore the top drinking tours that showcase the best of Hiroshima’s sake culture.
Key Points
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The Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour offers a 3-hour experience visiting 3 local bars with Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and 3 drink tastings, focusing on Hiroshima sake flavors.
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The Private Full-Day Okunoshima and Hiroshima Sake Breweries Tour provides a full-day experience visiting Okunoshima Island and top sake breweries with an English-speaking guide.
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The Sake Tasting Guided Tour in Saijo offers a 2-hour private tour visiting 7 local breweries with 8 sake tastings, led by an English-speaking guide.
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The Sake Town Tour in Saijo, Hiroshima, is an 11-hour tour visiting 4-6 local sake breweries with sake samples, a delicious lunch, and dessert.
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The Hiroshima Kagura Dance Show and Rooftop Bar Night Tour combines a traditional dance performance with access to a rooftop bar with stunning night views of Hiroshima.
Hiroshima: Bar Hopping Food Tour
Bar hopping through Hiroshima’s vibrant food and drink scene, the Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour offers an immersive cultural experience.
Priced from $97.26 per person, this 3-hour tour takes you to 3 local bars, allowing you to taste Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki and sample 3 drinks.
You’ll also learn about the different flavors of Hiroshima sake.
With a maximum group size of 7, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 24 reviews, this tour is a fantastic way to discover Hiroshima’s lively izakaya culture.
Just remember to bring cash for any additional orders beyond the included items.
Read our full review: Hiroshima: Bar Hopping Food Tour Review
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Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour
The Hiroshima Bar Hopping Food Tour offers an immersive cultural experience, guiding you through the vibrant food and drink scene of the city.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 3-hour tour promises an unforgettable evening. You’ll sample 3 drinks, 2 food plates, and the iconic Okonomiyaki pancake, all while enjoying personalized photos.
The tour is limited to 6 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is generally suitable, though those with certain medical conditions should exercise caution.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides the flexibility you need for an exceptional night in Hiroshima.
Read our full review: Hiroshima: Bar Hopping Food Tour Review
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Private Full-Day Okunoshima and Hiroshima Sake Breweries Tour
Frequently, travelers to Hiroshima seek a deeper immersion into the region’s renowned sake culture.
This private, full-day tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Okunoshima Island and discover the secrets behind Hiroshima’s top sake breweries. You’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking guide, who’ll provide transportation, ferry tickets, and admission fees.
The tour includes a delicious lunch, bottled water, and the chance to sample the finest local sakes. With a minimum of two travelers required, this customizable experience allows you to tailor the itinerary to your preferences.
At $217.62 per person, it’s a must-do for any discerning sake enthusiast visiting Hiroshima.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Okunoshima and Hiroshima Sake Breweries Tour Review
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Sake Tasting Guided Tour in Saijo With Visit to 7 Breweries
Enjoy Hiroshima’s renowned sake culture with this guided tour in Saijo.
You’ll visit 7 local breweries and enjoy 8 different sake tastings over the course of 2 hours. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you’ll learn about the history and production of this traditional Japanese drink.
The tour is private, so you’ll have the full attention of your guide. Keep hydrated with bottled water provided throughout. At the end, you’ll return to the starting point at Saijo Station.
Note that participants must be at least 20 years old, and the tour isn’t recommended for certain medical conditions.
With a 100% traveler recommendation, this is an excellent way to explore Hiroshima’s sake heritage.
Read our full review: Sake Tasting Guided Tour in Saijo With Visit to 7 Breweries Review
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Sake Town Tour in Saijo, Hiroshima
Embark on this Sake Town Tour in Saijo, Hiroshima, to learn about the rich heritage of Japanese sake.
During this 11-hour experience, you’ll visit 4-6 local sake breweries, sample various types of sake, and enjoy a delicious lunch with dessert.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
While it’s not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required makes it accessible to most.
Keep in mind that this tour isn’t suitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with seafood or pork restrictions, though it can accommodate pescetarians and those with gluten-free diets.
With an overall rating of 5.0, this tour promises an unforgettable sake-filled adventure.
Read our full review: Sake Town Tour in Saijo, Hiroshima Review
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Visit Izakaya and Hiroshima Yokogawa District
Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of Hiroshima’s Yokogawa district and explore its iconic izakayas, traditional Japanese pubs, on this guided tour.
You’ll visit 2 izakayas, sample local food and drinks, and learn about the area from an English-speaking local guide. Starting at 6 PM, the 2-hour tour costs $92.33 per person and departs from Yokogawa Station.
You’ll receive a souvenir, and all food, drink, and transportation fees are included. This private tour ensures you’ll have the guide’s undivided attention.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience. With easy access via public transport, this tour offers an authentic taste of Hiroshima’s nightlife.
Read our full review: Visit Izakaya and Hiroshima Yokogawa District Review
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Hiroshima Kagura Dance Show and Roof Top Bar Night Tour
Explore the captivating Hiroshima Kagura Dance Show and learn about the vibrant nightlife on this guided tour.
For $122 per person, you’ll enjoy the traditional Japanese dance performance and then head to a rooftop bar for stunning night views of Hiroshima.
The tour, operated by H.I.S. Co., Ltd., starts at 6:30 PM in front of the Orizuru Tower. Look for the guide with the H.I.S. flag.
This private tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Dinner is included, and you’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours, subject to availability.
Take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Hiroshima Kagura Dance Show and Roof Top Bar Night Tour Review
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Hiroshima/The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake Learn and Taste
Uncover the origins of Hiroshima’s renowned Ginjo sake on this immersive tour.
You’ll journey from Hiroshima Station to Akitsu and Saijo, the birthplace of Ginjo sake. Enjoy a traditional Bishu-nabe lunch in Saijo before visiting a local shrine.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the sake-making process and have the chance to sample various brews.
Transportation, including Shinkansen and taxi rides, is provided, as well as a licensed English interpreter guide.
This private tour is perfect for sake enthusiasts or those seeking a unique cultural experience.
Priced from €211.55, it’s a must-do activity for your Hiroshima itinerary.
Read our full review: Hiroshima/The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake Learn and Taste Review
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Tea Gathering With Bento Box and Sake Experience
For a culture in Hiroshima, join a tea gathering experience that combines a traditional bento box lunch and a sampling of local sake.
Hosted by kayHiroshima, this 2-hour activity starts at 6 PM near the Minami-machi-2chome train stop, just 20 minutes from both Peace Memorial Park and Hiroshima Station.
You’ll savor sweet and matcha teas, a light meal, and a glass of sake, all while learning about Japanese tea ceremony traditions.
Though not wheelchair accessible, this private tour ensures your group’s full participation.
Priced from $197.84, the experience is non-refundable, so book with confidence to discover Hiroshima’s cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Tea Gathering With Bento Box and Sake Experience Review
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Hiroshima: Sake Town Tour in Saijo Hiroshima
What better way to learn about Hiroshima’s rich sake culture than by embarking on the Sake Town Tour in Saijo?
You’ll enjoy a 3-hour journey through 4-6 local sake breweries, learning about the production process and sampling a variety of premium sakes.
Indulge in a specialty hot-pot lunch featuring these local rice wines, then savor sake-inspired desserts at a cozy café.
With a maximum group size of 8, you’ll receive personalized attention as you discover Saijo’s “shikomi mizu” – the essential water source that has made this region a sake brewing powerhouse.
Don’t miss this chance to explore Hiroshima’s sake heritage.
Read our full review: Hiroshima: Sake Town Tour in Saijo Hiroshima Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Non-Alcoholic Tour Options Available?
Yes, many tour providers offer non-alcoholic options. You can enjoy sightseeing, cultural experiences, and local cuisine without alcohol. Be sure to inquire about these alternatives when booking your tour to find the best fit for your preferences.
How Long Do the Tours Typically Last?
The tours typically last 2-3 hours, allowing you to explore the highlights at a comfortable pace. Many offer non-alcoholic options, so you can enjoy the experience without drinking if you prefer. The duration provides ample time to learn about the local culture.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand. They’ll be able to provide details on accessibility and make any necessary accommodations to ensure you have an enjoyable experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tours?
You can typically bring your own food and drinks on the tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or prefer if you purchase refreshments from them during the tour.
Do the Tours Provide Transportation Between Locations?
Yes, the tours typically provide transportation between the different drinking locations. You’ll be able to relax and enjoy the experience without having to worry about driving or navigating between stops.
Recap
Hiroshima offers a variety of drinking tours that’ll quench your thirst. From bar hopping food tours to sake tasting experiences, you’ll get to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife and discover its rich sake culture. Whether you’re a sake connoisseur or simply looking to try something new, these tours provide a unique and immersive way to experience Hiroshima’s thriving bar and brewery scene.