Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour

The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour promises an immersive experience in the region’s rich sake culture. Over two hours, guests can sample a variety of local sakes, including the unique plum wine, and try three types of Amazake, a sweet non-alcoholic drink. The tour also includes tasting traditional miso soup and local snacks while exploring the historic Zenko-ji Temple area and an old sake factory, led by knowledgeable hosts. Those interested in discovering Nagano’s vibrant sake scene won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.

This exceptional experience appears in the 20 most recommended Tours in Nagano.

Key Points

• A 2-hour guided walking tour exploring the local sake culture in Nagano, including tastings of over 5 sakes and 3 types of Amazake.
• Tour includes sampling Nagano’s miso soup, local snacks, and a visit to an old sake factory over 120 years old.
• Participants can explore the Zenko-ji Temple area and browse through local shops during the tour.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals over 70, and those with baby strollers due to accessibility concerns.
• The tour involves walking for up to 2 hours, navigation of narrow paths, and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Tour Overview

The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour is a 2-hour experience that allows visitors to explore the local sake culture of Nagano.

Priced from $57.90 per person, the tour features tastings of over 5 local sakes, including Nagano’s plum wine, as well as 3 types of Amazake, a non-alcoholic sweet drink.

Participants can also enjoy Nagano’s miso soup and local nibbles.

The tour includes admission to an old sake factory and a visit to the Zenkoji Temple area.

Participants must be aware of certain restrictions, such as not being suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Experience Highlights

More than 5 local sakes, including Nagano’s plum wine, await participants on this tasting tour.

Along With the sake, visitors can sample 3 types of Amazake, a non-alcoholic sweet drink suitable for children.

To complement the beverages, the tour includes Nagano’s miso soup and local nibbles like soy sauce beans and Japanese pickles.

Participants will also explore an old sake factory over 120 years old and visit the Zenkoji Temple area, browsing local shops.

With a friendly and informative guide, this tour offers a rundown of Nagano’s rich sake and culinary culture.

Itinerary

Starting at the Starbucks Coffee near MIDORI Nagano station, the walking tour begins with a visit to a hidden gem location for around 5 minutes.

Participants then explore the Zenko-ji Temple area for 30 minutes.

The tour continues with a 30-minute Nagano spirits tasting session.

Finally, the group visits another hidden gem spot for an additional 5 minutes before returning to the starting point.

The tour’s key highlights include:

• Zenko-ji Temple visit
• Nagano spirits tasting
• Visits to hidden gem locations
• Exploring the local area

Tour Inclusions

The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour includes a comprehensive tasting experience, allowing participants to sample more than five local sakes, including Nagano’s renowned plum wine.

The tour also offers a chance to taste three types of Amazake, a non-alcoholic sweet drink suitable for children.

To complement the sake tasting, the tour provides Nagano’s miso soup and local nibbles, such as soy sauce beans and Japanese pickles.

Plus, the tour includes admission to an old sake factory over 120 years old and an exploration of the Zenko-ji Temple area and local shops.

Participant Restrictions

Who’s the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour not suitable for?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, individuals over 70 years, and those with baby strollers. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

The tour involves:

• Walking for up to 2 hours
• Navigating narrow paths and uneven terrain
• Accessing an old sake factory that may have limited accessibility
• Consuming alcoholic beverages

Prospective guests should consider these factors before booking the tour to have the best possible experience.

Customer Reviews

According to the available customer reviews, the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour has received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars based on 8 reviews.

Customers have praised the friendly and informative tour guide, Masa, who provided a relaxed atmosphere and a rundown of Nagano.

The sake tasting experience was particularly enjoyable, with participants appreciating the opportunity to sample a variety of local sakes, including Nagano’s plum wine, as well as the non-alcoholic amazake drink.

Nagano’s Sake and Amazake

Nagano’s sake and amazake offerings are central to the experience of the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour. Guests can sample over 5 local sakes, including Nagano’s famous plum wine.

Plus, they’ll enjoy 3 types of amazake – a non-alcoholic sweet drink suitable for all ages.

• Discover Nagano’s award-winning sakes
• Savor the region’s delectable plum wine
• Indulge in the refreshing amazake beverages
• Pair the drinks with traditional Nagano snacks

These sake and amazake tastings provide an immersive exploration of Nagano’s rich culinary heritage, complementing the tour’s other highlights like the historic sake factory and Zenko-ji Temple visit.

Exploring Zenko-ji Temple

As part of the Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore the iconic Zenko-ji Temple.

Zenko-ji is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Japan, dating back to the 7th century. Guests will spend 30 minutes discovering the temple’s impressive architecture, grand central hall, and hidden treasures.

The tour guide will provide insights into the temple’s rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can also opt to pay a small fee to enter the main hall and see the temple’s most revered object, a hidden image of Buddha.

Things To Know

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour involves walking around the city. Casual, comfortable attire is recommended for the 2-hour experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a variety of local sake, amazake, miso soup, and snacks for participants to sample during the experience.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour. Participants are encouraged to capture the scenic locations and sake tasting experience, though they should be mindful not to disrupt the tour or other guests.

Can I Purchase Sake During the Tour to Take Home?

Yes, guests can purchase sake during the tour to take home. The tour includes time to explore local shops, where participants can buy sake and other Nagano specialties as souvenirs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Length?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Guests interested in a longer experience can inquire with the tour operator about extending the duration to explore more of Nagano’s sake-making heritage and cultural attractions.

Sum Up

The Nagano Sake Tasting Walking Tour offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to discover the region’s rich sake heritage. Guests can sample a variety of local sakes and traditional beverages while exploring historic sites and learning from knowledgeable guides. This tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Nagano’s vibrant sake culture and savor the flavors that define the region.