Hiroshima/The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake Learn and Taste

Hiroshima, the birthplace of premium ginjo sake, offers a unique cultural experience for the discerning traveler. From the seamless high-speed train journey to the serene Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, this tour promises an immersive exploration of the region’s sake-making heritage. The highlight, the France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch, showcases the renowned freshwater clams simmered in a sake-based broth. Visitors can also collect a special sake seal book and labels, creating a tangible memento of their journey. With an English-speaking local guide, this personalized experience uncovers the secrets behind Hiroshima’s celebrated sake.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Drinking Tours In Hiroshima.

Key Points

• Explore Hiroshima, the renowned birthplace of premium ginjo sake, through a personalized tour with an English-speaking local guide.
• Savor the regional specialty France-yas Bishu-nabe, featuring fresh clams from the nearby Seto Inland Sea simmered in a sake-infused broth.
• Visit the historic Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, a revered Shinto sanctuary, and collect a unique sake seal book and labels as souvenirs.
• Discover the art and culture of sake brewing, with the guide providing cultural context and personalized recommendations.
• Enjoy seamless transportation and a tailored experience that minimizes travel time and effort, ensuring an immersive and enriching journey.

Location and Transportation

Situated in western Japan, Hiroshima is the primary destination for this sake-focused tour.

Travelers can reach Hiroshima Station via the Shinkansen high-speed rail network and then utilize taxis to navigate to the nearby cities of Akitsu and Saijo, where the tour’s activities take place.

From Hiroshima Station, visitors will take a taxi to Akitsu, followed by a train ride from Akitsu to Saijo. This seamless transportation plan allows participants to experience the birthplace of premium ginjo sake while minimizing travel time and effort.

The tour’s private nature and English-speaking local guide ensure a personalized and hassle-free exploration of Hiroshima’s sake heritage.

France-yas Bishu-nabe Lunch

The tour includes a lunch of France-yas Bishu-nabe, a local specialty dish featuring Hiroshima’s renowned freshwater clams simmered in a sake-based broth.

This delectable dish showcases the region’s culinary excellence and its deep connection to the local sake brewing tradition. The clams are sourced from the nearby Seto Inland Sea, ensuring their freshness and flavor.

The broth, infused with the aromatic notes of locally-produced sake, creates a harmonious balance of umami and acidity. This hearty and comforting meal is a true taste of Hiroshima’s gastronomic heritage, providing an authentic cultural experience for visitors.

The France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to savor the flavors that have made Hiroshima a renowned culinary destination.

Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine

Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine stands as a revered spiritual sanctuary in Hiroshima, its history dating back centuries.

The shrine is dedicated to the Shinto deity Hachiman, the god of war and protection. Worshippers come to pray for success, prosperity, and good fortune.

The shrine’s serene grounds offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city, allowing visitors to connect with the area’s deep-rooted traditions.

Visitors can obtain a special shrine stamp, commemorating their journey through the region’s rich cultural heritage.

A stop at Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine is an enriching experience, providing a unique glimpse into Hiroshima’s enduring spiritual legacy.

Sake Seal Book and Labels

Along With obtaining a shrine stamp at Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, visitors on the Hiroshima sake tour can collect a special sake seal book and personalized labels from each of the breweries they visit.

This seal book serves as a memento of the journey, allowing travelers to document their experiences at the various sake producers they encounter.

The personalized labels, designed by each brewery, further enhance the sense of authenticity and connection to the local culture.

Licensed English Interpreter Guide

A licensed local English interpreter guide accompanies visitors on the Hiroshima sake tour, providing valuable insights and facilitating seamless communication throughout the experience.

The guide’s expertise enhances the tour in several ways:

1. Translations: The guide seamlessly translates between Japanese and English, ensuring participants can fully engage with the brewery staff and understand the intricate sake-making process.

2. Cultural Insights: The guide offers cultural context and historical background, deepening visitors’ appreciation for the traditions and techniques that shape Hiroshima’s renowned ginjo sake.

3. Personalized Recommendations: Drawing on their local knowledge, the guide suggests the best sake pairings and highlights must-visit spots, tailoring the experience to each group’s interests.

The guide’s role is integral to making the Hiroshima sake tour an immersive and enriching experience for international travelers.

Meeting and End Point

The tour begins at the Hiroshima Tourist Information, situated in front of the entrance to the Hiroshima Station General Information Center, and concludes by returning participants to the same meeting point. This convenient location provides easy access for travelers arriving by Shinkansen or other transportation methods.

Meeting Point	End Point
Hiroshima Tourist Information	Returns to the meeting point
In front of the entrance of Hiroshima Station General Information Center	–

The tour’s start and end at the same central location simplifies logistics and ensures a seamless experience for participants, allowing them to fully enjoy the Hiroshima sake-tasting adventure without worrying about navigation.

Tour Details

Hiroshima: The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake

Tour Details

This private tour/activity allows only your group to participate, and it’s operated by (株)たびまちゲート広島.

The tour includes several engaging elements:

1. A France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch in the town of Saijo, where you’ll savor a traditional local dish.
2. A visit to the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine to collect a special shrine stamp, a cherished memento.
3. The opportunity to acquire a sake seal book and sake labels from each brewery you visit, providing a tangible record of your sake-tasting journey.

The tour is led by a licensed Hiroshima local English interpreter guide, ensuring a seamless and informative experience throughout.

Booking and Availability

Confirmation for this tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is located near public transportation, allowing most travelers to participate.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time), and secure their spot through the Reserve Now and Pay Later option to stay flexible.

Pricing for the tour varies based on group size, with the lowest price guaranteed.

This thoughtfully designed experience in Hiroshima offers the opportunity to take in the birthplace of ginjo sake, with engaging activities and a knowledgeable local guide to enhance the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour provides a France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions. Travelers with special dietary needs should check with the tour operator about alternative meal options.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to include additional activities. The tour operator is flexible and willing to accommodate special requests, subject to availability and additional costs.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if We Need to Reschedule the Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts for a full refund. If rescheduling is needed, they should contact the tour operator as soon as possible to make alternate arrangements.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Gear for This Tour?

No special equipment or gear is required for this tour. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. The tour provides all necessary materials, such as the sake seal book and labels.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Extra Services?

Yes, there may be options to extend the tour duration or add extra services. Customers should inquire with the tour operator about customizing the experience to meet their specific needs and interests.

Recap

Hiroshima’s sake-making heritage comes alive through this immersive tour. Travelers will enjoy the seamless transportation, indulge in the renowned France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch, and discover the serene Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine.

The personalized experience is further enhanced by collecting a special sake seal book and labels, creating a tangible memento of their journey. With an English-speaking local guide, this tour offers a truly authentic cultural exploration of Hiroshima’s premium ginjo sake.