Japanese Sake Breweries Tour in Kyoto Fushimi

Exploring the renowned sake breweries of Kyoto’s Fushimi district is a unique opportunity to take in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. This guided tour takes visitors on a journey through five esteemed breweries, including the historic Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, where the centuries-old art of sake-making is unveiled. From learning about the intricate production process to savoring the diverse flavors of this iconic Japanese beverage, this experience promises to captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression. As the tour unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other secrets this sake-producing region might hold.

Key Points

• The tour covers visits to 5 sake breweries in the Fushimi district of Kyoto, including the historic Gekkeikan Brewery founded in 1637.
• Participants can enjoy sake tastings, cultural insights, and a complimentary sake cup and glass of Kyoto Beer during the 3-hour guided tour.
• The tour includes admission to the Gekkeikan Sake Brewery Museum and a scenic boat ride on the Jukkokubune.
• The tour is suitable for participants aged 20 and above, with non-alcoholic options available.
• The meeting point is a 5-minute walk from 中書島駅, and participants should follow the guide’s instructions for a smooth tour experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Japanese Sake Breweries Tour in Kyoto Fushimi offers visitors an immersive experience, priced at Kč 1,986 per person.

The 3-hour tour includes guided visits to 5 notable sake breweries, where participants can uncover centuries-old sake-making secrets. It also offers a scenic walk through the historic Fushimi sake district.

The tour features sake tastings, cultural insights, and complimentary items like a commemorative sake cup and a glass of Kyoto Beer.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot and pay later. The tour’s itinerary is subject to change.

Itinerary and Experience

Starting at the 中書島駅, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the first brewery on the tour.

The guided tour begins at the Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, where visitors spend 35 minutes learning about the brewery’s 380-year history.

Next, they visit Kizakura Kappa Country for a quick 5-minute overview.

At Fushimi Saka Gura Kouji, the tour lasts 25 minutes, followed by 35 minutes at the Fushimi Yume Hyakushu Cafe.

The final stop is Ginjo Shubo Aburacho, where the tour takes 40 minutes.

The experience concludes at the 吟醸酒房 油長.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Sake Tasting and Cultural Insights

On this tour, visitors discover Fushimi’s rich sake culture with the guidance of a local expert.

They’ll visit 2-3 diverse sake breweries, sampling and learning about the centuries-old secrets of sake production. At the historic Gekkeikan Brewery, founded in 1637, they’ll gain insights into the sake-making process.

The tour also includes a glass of Kyoto Beer at Kizakura Brewery and a sake ice cream tasting at Café Yumehyakushu.

Plus, visitors will enjoy a scenic walk through the Fushimi sake district and a jukkokubune boat ride, seeing the region’s sake heritage.

Inclusions and Special Features

The Japanese Sake Breweries Tour includes several special features to enhance the experience.

Participants receive admission to the Gekkeikan Sake Brewery Museum and a commemorative sake cup.

They’ll also enjoy a glass of Kyoto Beer from Kizakura Brewery and sake ice cream from Café Yumehyakushu.

The tour provides tasting sets of three types of Japanese sake from Aburacho and Gekkeikan.

Plus, the Jukkokubune boat fee is included, allowing guests to experience a scenic boat ride.

Eating and drinking expenses at each brewery and restaurant are also covered, providing a comprehensive culture.

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Important Information

Participants will meet at the sake barrel object outside the north exit ticket gate, where the guide will have a sign saying "888".

Those under 20 can join, and non-alcoholic options are available due to Japanese drinking laws. However, the tour isn’t suitable for participants over 80 years old.

The meeting point is important, as there’s a JR Sumiyoshi Station with the same name that could cause confusion.

Following the guide’s instructions and being aware of the age restrictions will ensure a smooth and enjoyable sake brewery tour in Kyoto’s Fushimi district.

Starting Location and Accessibility

As the tour begins, you will convene at the sake barrel object situated outside the north exit ticket gate, where the guide will be holding a sign displaying the number "888".

This convenient meeting point is just a 5-minute walk from the 中書島駅 station.

The tour is accessible for most participants, as it welcomes those under 20 years old, with non-alcoholic options available.

However, it may not be suitable for those over 80 years old.

Attendees should be cautious not to confuse this location with the JR Sumiyoshi Station, which shares a similar name.

Brewery Highlights and Guided Tours

After assembling at the designated meeting point, participants embark on a guided tour that takes them through Fushimi’s rich sake heritage.

The first stop is the Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum, where they learn about the brewery’s 380-year history and the secrets of sake production.

Next, they visit Kizakura Kappa Country for a brief tour.

The highlight is the Fushimi Saka Gura Kouji, a scenic sake district where they explore centuries-old sake-making techniques.

The tour culminates at Ginjo Shubo Aburacho, where participants enjoy sake tastings and gain deeper insights into Kyoto’s sake culture.

Here are 3 key highlights of the guided tours:

1. Insights into the 380-year history and production methods at the Gekkeikan Ōkura Sake Museum.
2. Exploration of the historic Fushimi Saka Gura Kouji sake district.
3. Tasting of diverse sake varieties at Ginjo Shubo Aburacho.

Scenic Walk Through Fushimi Sake District

While strolling through the historic Fushimi sake district, visitors enjoy a scenic wonderland of traditional architecture, winding canals, and the distinctive aroma of fermenting rice.

The quaint streets showcase the preservation of Kyoto’s cultural heritage, with centuries-old kura (storehouses) and thatched-roof buildings lining the pathways.

Visitors enjoy a leisurely walk, taking in the sights and sounds of this sake-making enclave. Along the way, they gain insights into the region’s rich sake-brewing legacy, with every step revealing the deep-rooted traditions that have endured for generations within this captivating neighborhood.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has no minimum group size, as it’s an individual experience. Participants under 20 can join, and non-alcoholic options are available to accommodate different needs. The tour is suitable for solo travelers or small groups.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes sake tastings, a beer, snacks, and all food/drink expenses at the breweries and restaurants visited. Outside items are not permitted.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is specifically listed as a 3-hour experience. Extending the tour would likely require booking a separate or customized tour package through the provider.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Attire?

No special equipment or attire is required. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor activities. The tour provider will provide any necessary gear.

Can I Customize the Brewery Visits to My Preferences?

While the itinerary is preset, travelers can discuss their preferences with the guide. The tour give you a comprehensive sake experience, but the guide may be able to accommodate special requests if feasible and time allows.

The Sum Up

This guided sake tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich heritage of Japanese sake production. Visitors can explore historic breweries, learn about the intricate sake-making process, and savor a variety of sake samples, all while soaking in the scenic beauty of Kyoto’s iconic Fushimi district. With cultural insights, local beer, and even sake ice cream, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for sake enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: