Sake Tasting Experience in Kyoto Fushimi

Explore the vibrant Fushimi district of Kyoto and learn about the rich cultural heritage of sake. Japandas offers an enchanting sake tasting experience that unveils the nuances of this revered Japanese beverage. Explore the history of Gekkeikan, one of Japan’s oldest sake breweries, and savor a diverse selection of 18 sake varieties while learning the distinctions between junmai, ginjo, and daiginjo styles. This exceptional experience culminates in a scenic boat trip along the historic sake trade route, promising an unforgettable cultural adventure.

Key Points

• A sake tasting experience operated by Japandas in Kyoto’s Fushimi district, featuring a visit to the Gekkeikan Sake Museum and sampling of three Gekkeikan sake varieties.

• Immersive exploration of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious sake brewery, Gekkeikan, including an educational component on the history and production of sake.

• Sampling of 18 varieties of Gekkeikan sake, accompanied by traditional Japanese snacks, and a glass of Kyoto Beer from Kizakura Brewery.

• Flexibility for participants to order additional food and drinks during the experience, which reflects Kyoto’s culinary and beverage traditions.

• A scenic boat trip along the historic sake trade route through the Fushimi Inari Shrine area, with insights from the guide on sake production and trade significance.

Overview of the Sake Tasting Experience

The Sake Tasting Experience in Kyoto’s Fushimi district offers visitors an immersive journey into the world of Japanese rice wine.

Operated by Japandas, the tour takes guests to the renowned Gekkeikan Sake Museum, where they’ll learn about the history and production of sake.

Participants then sample three Gekkeikan sake varieties, followed by a tasting of 18 types of sake accompanied by snacks.

The experience also includes a visit to the SAKE trade route, a boat trip on the Jukkokubune, and a glass of Kyoto Beer from the Kizakura Brewery.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 9 travelers.

Gekkeikan Sake Museum and Tasting

One of the highlights of the Sake Tasting Experience is the visit to the renowned Gekkeikan Sake Museum.

Here, guests can explore the history and production of Gekkeikan, one of Japan’s oldest and most prestigious sake breweries. The museum offers an admission ticket, allowing visitors to enjoy the fascinating world of sake.

During the experience, you will sample three distinct types of Gekkeikan sake, providing a delightful opportunity to appreciate the nuances and flavors of this iconic Japanese beverage.

This museum visit is a captivating and educational component of the overall Sake Tasting Experience.

Sampling of 18 Sake Varieties and Snacks

After the informative visit to the Gekkeikan Sake Museum, guests embark on a more hands-on tasting experience.

The group samples 18 varieties of Gekkeikan sake, accompanied by traditional Japanese snacks. Visitors learn about the unique flavors, aromas, and production methods of each sake type. The tasting allows them to discern the differences between junmai, ginjo, and daiginjo styles.

A glass of Kyoto Beer from the Kizakura Brewery provides a refreshing contrast to the sake. The experience culminates with guests receiving a souvenir sake cup from the historic Gekkeikan brand.

Dinner and Kyoto Beer Inclusion

Following the tasting of 18 sake varieties, the experience culminates with a dinner accompanied by a glass of Kyoto Beer from the local Kizakura Brewery.

The dinner isn’t included in the base price, allowing participants to order additional food and drinks at their own expense. This provides flexibility for travelers to customize their dining experience based on their preferences and budget.

The inclusion of the Kyoto Beer sample offers a complementary beverage pairing to enhance the overall sake-tasting journey through Kyoto’s rich culinary and beverage traditions.

Souvenir Sake Cup

As participants conclude their sake tasting journey, they’re presented with a special souvenir – a sake cup from the renowned Gekkeikan Sake brand.

This commemorative cup serves as a tangible reminder of the immersive experience. Crafted with care, the cup’s design reflects the rich heritage and craftsmanship of Gekkeikan, one of Japan’s oldest and most respected sake producers.

Participants can take this memento home, allowing them to relive the flavors and atmosphere of the tasting long after the experience has ended.

It’s a thoughtful keepsake that enhances the overall value of the Sake Tasting Experience.

Jukkokubune Boat Trip and Sake Trade Route

As the sake tasting portion of the experience concludes, participants embark on a scenic Jukkokubune boat trip along the historic sake trade route.

This traditional wooden boat takes them through the Fushimi Inari Shrine area, offering a unique perspective of the iconic vermilion torii gates.

During the leisurely cruise, the guide shares insights into the significance of the Fushimi region’s long-standing connection to sake production and trade.

The boat trip provides a tranquil conclusion to the immersive sake experience, allowing participants to reflect on the rich cultural heritage they’ve explored throughout the day.

Meeting Point and Guide Identification

Where does the Sake Tasting Experience in Kyoto begin?

The experience starts at Chushojima Station, located in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto. Travelers will meet the guide at the north exit of the station, in front of the sake barrel sculpture.

The guide will be wearing a white hat and holding a white flag, making them easy to identify. From the meeting point, the group will embark on their sake-filled adventure, exploring Kyoto’s rich sake culture.

With clear instructions and a recognizable guide, participants can feel confident in finding the starting location and beginning their immersive sake tasting experience.

Schedule and Additional Details

The Sake Tasting Experience in Kyoto begins at 6:00 PM and concludes back at the meeting point.

The schedule includes:

1. Admission to the Gekkeikan Sake Museum.
2. Tasting of 3 types of Gekkeikan Sake.
3. A glass of Kyoto Beer from the Kizakura Brewery.
4. A Jukkokubune boat trip and a visit to the SAKE trade route.

The experience also includes a souvenir sake cup from Gekkeikan Sake.

Travelers should note that the dinner and additional food and drinks aren’t included in the price.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies Accommodated?

The experience does not mention any dietary restrictions or food allergies being accommodated. Customers should contact the operator in advance if they have any special dietary needs that require attention.

What Language(S) Does the Guide Speak During the Experience?

The guides for this experience speak both English and Japanese. They’re able to provide information and lead the activities in both languages, ensuring a smooth and engaging experience for all participants.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age requirement, but participants must be at least 20 years old to taste the sake. The experience has a maximum of 9 travelers and is suitable for most travelers.

Can the Schedule Be Adjusted to Accommodate a Different Start Time?

The schedule can be adjusted to accommodate a different start time, subject to availability. Participants should check with the tour operator, Japandas, to inquire about adjusting the start time of the Sake Tasting Experience.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Measures or Protocols in Place?

Yes, the experience follows COVID-19 safety protocols. Guests must wear masks and have their temperature checked upon arrival. The group size is limited, and physical distancing is maintained throughout the experience.

The Sum Up

The Sake Tasting experience in Kyoto’s Fushimi district offers an immersive cultural journey. Participants visit the Gekkeikan Sake Museum, sample 18 sake varieties, enjoy traditional snacks, and take a scenic boat trip along the historic sake trade route. This memorable adventure provides an authentic taste of Japan’s renowned sake culture.