The best drinking tours in Ibaraki showcase authentic Japanese beverage-making at its finest. Traditional sake breweries, some dating back hundreds of years, welcome visitors for hands-on experiences.
The standout stops include family-run soy sauce operations and the excellent Plum Wine Sake Museum, where English guides make the experience accessible and engaging.
I especially love the private sake brewery tours – they’re intimate, informative, and give you direct access to master brewers. Most facilities are wheelchair-friendly, making these cultural experiences available to everyone.
Let’s explore the top drinking tours worth your time in Ibaraki.
Key Points
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Private soy sauce brewery tours offer a unique glimpse into century-old production techniques and a well-rounded experience with a gourmet lunch.
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Private sake brewery tours provide an immersive experience, including sake tasting and insights into the cultural significance of sake in Japan.
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Sake brewery tours combined with visits to Shinran Temple offer a comprehensive understanding of the historic importance of sake in Japanese culture.
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The Plum Wine Sake Museum in Ibaraki Prefecture offers an alcohol tasting experience with an English-speaking guide, providing insights into Japan’s drinking heritage.
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Ibaraki Prefecture offers a range of private, intimate, and accessible drinking tours, with flexible booking options and free cancellation policies.
Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki
Throughout the tour, guests will explore the inner workings of the factory, learning firsthand about the meticulous techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Lunch is included, providing a well-rounded experience.
Accessibility is assured, with the tour accommodating both wheelchair users and those with strollers, while being conveniently situated near public transportation.
With a 5-star rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, this private soy sauce brewery tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Ibaraki’s rich culinary heritage.
Read our full review: Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki Review
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Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour in Ibaraki
Visitors exploring Ibaraki’s vibrant brewing scene can indulge in a private walking and wine tasting sake brewery tour at the renowned Yoshikubo Sake Brewery.
Located just a 10-minute taxi ride from Mito Station, the tour provides an immersive experience for adults aged 20 and above. Participants will learn about the brewery’s century-old history and witness the traditional sake-making process firsthand.
The highlight of the tour is the sake tasting, where guests can sample a variety of the brewery’s signature offerings. The experience concludes at the meeting point, and alcoholic beverages are included throughout.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Booking is available with a confirmation received within 48 hours, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the start time.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, and the lowest price is guaranteed.
Read our full review: Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour in Ibaraki Review
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Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit
For those seeking a more immersive experience in Ibaraki’s brewing heritage, the Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit offers a unique opportunity.
Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, this tour takes visitors to a private sake brewery and the Shinran Temple, providing an insider’s look at the region’s rich cultural and culinary traditions.
The tour begins at Inada Station, where participants are transported to the brewery. Here, they’ll receive a guided tour, learning about the intricate process of sake production and the historic significance of this beloved Japanese beverage.
Afterward, the group will visit the Shinran Temple, a significant religious site associated with the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
With bottled water provided and no physical limitations beyond a moderate fitness level, this tour is accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Importantly, the tour is private, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic culture in Ibaraki.
Read our full review: Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit Review
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Explore Plum Wine Sake Museum and Japanese Alcohol Tasting
Tucked within Ibaraki Prefecture, the Plum Wine Sake Museum offers travelers a captivating exploration of Japan’s rich beverage heritage. Operated by Meiri Shurui, the museum provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover the art of plum wine and Japanese alcohol.
For just $39.57 per person, visitors can enjoy an alcohol tasting and gain insights from an English-speaking guide.
The experience begins at the Mito Komon statue, a 15-minute walk from Mito Station. Groups are capped at 20 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere.
Inside the museum, guests will have the opportunity to sample a variety of alcoholic beverages, including the renowned plum wine. The tour also includes an in-depth look at the museum’s exhibits, showcasing the history and production methods behind Japan’s beloved spirits.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious explorer, the Plum Wine Sake Museum offers a unique and unforgettable taste of Ibaraki’s vibrant drinking culture.
Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, subject to availability, making it easy to secure your spot.
Read our full review: Explore Plum Wine Sake Museum and Japanese Alcohol Tasting Review
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Recap
Ibaraki Prefecture offers a diverse range of drinking tours, from exploring century-old soy sauce breweries to tasting plum wine and sake. These private tours provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the history and production methods of traditional Japanese alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a sake enthusiast, Ibaraki has something to satisfy your palate and quench your thirst for cultural exploration.