Hiroshima, Japan’s renowned birthplace of ginjo sake, offers a captivating experience for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers. Visitors can enjoy the rich history and artistry behind this premium rice wine, sampling exceptional varieties at renowned local breweries. With a serene backdrop of historic shrines and memorials, this culinary journey promises to enlighten and delight the senses. What secrets await the sake connoisseur in Hiroshima?
Key Points
- Explore Hiroshima’s rich sake heritage, from the birthplace of ginjo sake to the iconic Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park.
- Discover Akitsu, a coastal town renowned for its premium sake breweries, and learn about the sake production process.
- Venture to Saijo, recognized as the "birthplace of ginjo sake," and immerse in the local culture and sake legacy.
- Savor the traditional France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and premium ginjo and daiginjo sakes.
- Set out on a guided tour with a licensed local interpreter to seamlessly navigate between sake-related sites in Hiroshima, Akitsu, and Saijo.
Exploring Hiroshima
Why explore Hiroshima? The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
As the birthplace of ginjo sake, Hiroshima is renowned for its exceptional rice wine. Beyond sake, the city boasts the iconic Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, a poignant reminder of the atomic bombing.
Visitors can also explore the serene Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene.
With its mix of traditional and modern elements, Hiroshima invites travelers to enjoy the rich tapestry of Japanese heritage and contemporary life.
Thirsty for more? These other drinking tours in Hiroshima caught our attention
Discovering Akitsu
From Hiroshima Station, the journey to Akitsu marks the start of an immersive exploration into the birthplace of ginjo sake. This small coastal town is home to several renowned sake breweries, each with its own unique history and tradition. Visitors are invited to discover the intricate process of sake production, from the careful selection of rice to the intricate fermentation techniques. Along the way, they’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of premium ginjo sakes, gaining a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind this revered Japanese beverage.
| Brewery | Specialty | Year Established |
|---|---|---|
| Kawashiri Shuzo | Junmai Ginjo | 1879 |
| Kamotsuru Shuzo | Daiginjo | 1661 |
| Hakubotan Shuzo | Junmai Daiginjo | 1893 |
| Fukuju Shuzo | Junmai Ginjo | 1866 |
| Yoshida Shuzo | Junmai | 1832 |
Venturing to Saijo
After exploring the sake breweries in Akitsu, the tour continues its journey to Saijo, widely regarded as the "birthplace of ginjo sake."
Situated along the Ohta River, this historic town boasts a rich sake-making heritage, with many renowned breweries dotting the landscape.
Visitors will enjoy the local culture, visiting the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine to receive a stamp in their sake seal book.
The highlight of the day is a traditional France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch, where guests can sample the region’s acclaimed ginjo and daiginjo sakes.
This stop offers an authentic taste of Hiroshima’s sake legacy.
France-yas Bishu-nabe Lunch
The France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch offers visitors an opportunity to savor Hiroshima’s renowned ginjo and daiginjo sakes in an authentic setting.
This traditional hot pot dish features locally-sourced ingredients, including tender pork and fresh vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth.
As guests indulge in the hearty meal, they’ll have the chance to sample a variety of premium sakes, gaining insights into the nuances and complexities of the region’s renowned craft.
The experience immerses participants in Hiroshima’s rich sake culture, providing an unforgettable culinary and cultural encounter.
Visiting Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine
Participants then venture to Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, a renowned religious site with deep roots in Hiroshima’s sake heritage. The shrine, dedicated to the Shinto god Hachiman, has long been associated with the local sake industry.
Visitors receive a stamp in their sake seal book, acknowledging their pilgrimage to this hallowed ground. The shrine’s tranquil atmosphere and scenic mountain backdrop provide a peaceful respite from the day’s activities.
Here, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of sake production in the Hiroshima region, further enriching their overall experience.
Hungry for more Hiroshima flavors? We've covered these other food and drink spots
Sake Tasting and Seal Book
With the shrine visit complete, participants now make their way to the highlight of the experience – sake tasting and a unique sake seal book.
The licensed guide leads the group to several renowned local breweries, where they’ll sample various types of ginjo sake.
The tasting is accompanied by a personalized sake seal book, allowing guests to collect stamps and labels from each brewery visited. This creates a one-of-a-kind keepsake to commemorate the experience.
The guided tastings provide insights into the rich history and craftsmanship behind Hiroshima’s renowned sake culture.
- Guided sake tastings at local breweries
- Personalized sake seal book to collect stamps
- Insights into Hiroshima’s sake heritage
Guided Tour With Local Interpreter
Guided exploration of Hiroshima’s sake heritage begins with a licensed local interpreter leading the way. They provide in-depth insight into the region’s centuries-old sake production traditions. The itinerary involves seamless transportation between key sites via Shinkansen, taxi, and train.
| Location | Activity |
|---|---|
| Hiroshima Station | Meet the guide |
| Akitsu | Shinkansen & taxi to Saijo |
| Saijo | Tour sake breweries, enjoy France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch |
| Hiroshima Station | Return via JR train |
Along the way, participants receive a sake seal book, collect brewery stamps, and purchase local sake – seeing Hiroshima’s celebrated ginjo sake culture.
Souvenirs and Personal Purchases
The experience culminates with opportunities to acquire souvenirs and personally select local sake.
Visitors can browse an assortment of regional crafts, artisanal goods, and sake-themed merchandise. Highlights include:
- Distinctive sake bottles and glassware
- Handcrafted pottery and ceramics
- Traditional Japanese confections and snacks
With the help of the knowledgeable guide, guests can curate a unique collection of souvenirs and personal purchases that capture the essence of Hiroshima’s rich sake heritage.
These keepsakes serve as lasting reminders of the immersive cultural exploration undertaken during the Hiroshima/The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake Learn and Taste experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has no formal dress code. Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking is recommended. Participants should dress in layers as the weather may vary during the day.
Can We Take Photos During the Tour?
Yes, participants can take photos during the tour. The tour guide encourages photography to capture the sights and experiences, allowing guests to document their visit and share their memories with others.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?
The tour includes a France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch in Saijo. While specific dietary restrictions are not mentioned, the tour operator can likely accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary needs with advance notice. It’s best to inquire about any special requirements when booking.
Can We Purchase Additional Sake at the Breweries?
Yes, participants can purchase additional sake at the breweries during the tour. The tour includes sake tastings, but visitors are free to buy extra bottles of their favorite sakes to take home.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
According to the booking information, this tour has a free cancellation policy. Customers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before the experience starts without incurring any penalties.
The Sum Up
Hiroshima’s rich sake heritage and cultural attractions offer visitors an immersive experience. Exploring renowned breweries, savoring premium ginjo sakes, and discovering the city’s shrines and memorials provide a captivating journey. Guided tours with local interpreters enhance the appreciation of sake nuances and vibrant local culture. Visitors can enjoy Hiroshima’s sake legacy, making this destination a must-visit for enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
More Tour Reviews in Hiroshima
Still browsing? Here are more Hiroshima experiences we've covered recently
- Japanesel Archery Experience HIROSHIMA CASTLE SHARAKU
- Hiroshima Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
- JR Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass
- [Japan Wellness] Goma Fire Ritual and Sake Brewery in Hiroshima
- Hike up Mt. Omine and Enjoy the View of Miyajima
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Hiroshima
- Atomic Bomb Dome and Peace Memorial Museum 3hours
- Private Departure Transfer Hiroshima City to Hiroshima International Airport
- Shared Departure Transfer : Hiroshima City to Hiroshima Airport
- Hiroshima and Miyajima Day Trip With Itsukushima Shrine & Ferry
- Private Transfer From Hiroshima Airport (HIJ) to Hiroshima Port
- Hiroshima Shukkei-En Garden With Local Guide 90MIN