How to Plan Your Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour

If you’re a sake lover, or just someone interested in learning about Japanese culture and traditions, then the Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour is an experience you won’t want to miss. This comprehensive tour takes you to both a small and large sake brewery to get a sense of the differences of scale and try their sake and other produce. You’ll explore the Gekkeikan Okura sake museum, witness a brewery at work, learn about the process of making rice wine, and much more.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your unforgettable Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour:

Step 1: Booking Your Tour

The first step in planning your Kyoto sake brewery tour is to book your tour. You can book via the following link: Book the tour here. The tour is offered by a third-party company, GetYourGuide, and is available for booking online. Prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour is typically offered several times a week.

Step 2: Getting Ready for Your Tour

Once you’ve booked your tour, it’s time to start preparing. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. The tour involves walking, so be prepared for some physical activity. Also, bring a water bottle and a small snack for the journey.

Step 3: Tour Highlights

During your tour, you can expect the following highlights:

• Visit both a small and large sake brewery to get a sense of the differences of scale and try their sake and other produce
• Explore the Gekkeikan Okura sake museum to see the historic tradition and techniques in making rice wine
• See how a brewery works and get a sense of what goes into the production of the world’s best sake
• Enjoy sake tastings at various spots during the tour different breweries and different styles
• Explore Fushimi area with a local guide

Step 4: Full Tour Description

The Gekkeikan Okura sake museum has been making sake since 1637 with a nearly 4 century-old process. The museum is essentially a working brewery that offers visitors an up-close look at the art of sake brewing.

During the tour, you’ll witness the traditional brewing process, which involves a combination of water, malt, yeast, and steamed rice. You’ll get a sense of how the different varieties of rice contribute to the taste of the finished product, and why it is considered to be the world’s best sake.

You’ll also have the opportunity to taste a range of different sakes, including some unique local specialties that you won’t find anywhere else. The tour includes several different tastings, so you can experience the breadth and depth of the Kyoto sake scene.

In addition to the brewery, the tour also takes you on a walking tour of the Fushimi area. You’ll have the chance to explore the local community and learn about the history and culture of Kyoto. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of local landmarks, including temples, shrines, and other historic sites.

Step 5: Other Helpful Tips

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when planning your Kyoto sake brewery tour:

• If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, be sure to let your tour guide know ahead of time.
• Bring a camera or phone to capture memories of your tour.
• Consider bringing cash for souvenirs or additional food and drink purchases.
• Remember to stay respectful of the brewery and its traditions throughout your tour.

Conclusion

The Kyoto Sake Brewery Tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the art and craft of sake brewing. From the historic techniques used at the Gekkeikan Okura sake museum to the local flavors and traditions of the Fushimi area, this tour is a must for anyone looking to connect with the culture and heritage of Kyoto. So why wait? Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience.

The Ultimate Guide to Kyoto: Answering the Most Frequently Asked Questions

Kyoto, the former imperial capital of Japan, is a city that exudes traditional Japanese culture, history, and natural beauty. Every year, millions of tourists from all over the world flock to this city to experience its serene temples, magical gardens, mouth-watering cuisine, and traditional arts and crafts. But, as a first-timer, you might have some questions about this city. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Kyoto that will help make your trip an unforgettable experience.

1. What is the best time to visit Kyoto?

Kyoto is a year-round destination, and each season offers a different experience. Spring (March-May) is the cherry blossom season, and the city is painted pink with the blooming of these delicate flowers. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid, but the Gion Matsuri festival, one of Japan’s most famous traditional festivals, takes place in July. Fall (September-November) is the best time to see the autumn leaves, and winter (December-February) is relatively mild with lesser crowds, and you can experience winter illuminations at temples and shrines. Thus, the best time to visit Kyoto purely depends on what you are looking for.

2. How to get around Kyoto?

Kyoto has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses, trains, and subways. While buses are slower, they cover all of Kyoto’s popular tourist spots and offer a one-day ticket that provides unlimited rides. The train system covers Kyoto’s outskirts and surrounding cities, making it ideal for a day trip. Subways are limited to only two lines but are faster than buses. Taxis are more expensive but convenient for those who want to save time.

3. What are the must-visit tourist spots in Kyoto?

Kyoto has a plethora of tourist spots, and it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. However, below are some must-visit tourist spots in Kyoto:

i. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)

The Kinkaku-ji is a Zen Buddhist temple that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s main attraction is its gold-leafed pavilion that overlooks a tranquil pond and beautiful gardens.

ii. Fushimi Inari-Taisha

The Fushimi Inari-Taisha is a shrine that has over 10,000 torii gates that lead up to the sacred Mount Inari. The hike up to the summit is a beautiful experience, and the view from the top is stunning.

iii. Kiyomizu-dera

The Kiyomizu-dera is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its wooden veranda that juts out from the mountainside. The temple complex also has beautiful gardens, pagodas, and shrines.

iv. Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a district located on the outskirts of Kyoto and is known for its beautiful bamboo groves, scenic river, and temples. It is an excellent place to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.

4. What is the traditional cuisine of Kyoto?

Kyoto’s traditional cuisine is known as “Kyo-ryori,” which is a sophisticated and refined form of Japanese cuisine that has developed over centuries as a result of Kyoto’s culture, geography, and history. Some of the famous dishes are Kaiseki Ryori (a multi-course meal), tofu, matcha, and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets).

5. What is the best way to experience Kyoto’s traditional crafts?

Kyoto is famous for its traditional crafts such as pottery, textiles, lacquerware, and paper. The best way to experience these crafts is by visiting the various workshops and studios scattered throughout the city. Here, you can watch the craftsmen at work and even participate in workshops to make your traditional crafts.

6. Is it necessary to wear traditional clothing in Kyoto?

It is not mandatory to wear traditional clothing, but it is highly recommended as it adds to the unique Kyoto experience. Men can wear a yukata (a simple cotton kimono), and women can wear a kimono or a yukata. There are rental shops all over Kyoto where you can rent traditional clothing.

Conclusion

Kyoto is a city that will leave you in awe with its unique blending of historical and modern cultures. We hope that we have answered some of your questions and that you are now equipped with the knowledge to plan an unforgettable trip to Kyoto. Remember, there are still many things to discover in Kyoto, and the best way to experience it is by visiting it yourself.