Wakayama: Explore Yuasa, the Origin of Japanese Soy Sauce

Wakayama Prefecture , Japan

Wakayama: Explore Yuasa, the Origin of Japanese Soy Sauce

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About this experience

Discover the historic town of Yuasa, the birthplace of Japanese soy sauce, on this engaging guided tour. Wander through the town's wooden streets, breathe in the aromas of fermenting soy mash, and witness the traditional craftsmanship that defines this culinary heritage. Visit the Kuyogura Brewery to learn about the natural fermentation process and enjoy a unique soy sauce-flavored soft serve ice cream at Kura Café. Explore the preserved historic district and conclude your journey at the oldest operating brewery, Kadocho, where centuries-old methods are still in practice.

- Explore the birthplace of soy sauce in Yuasa, Japan
- Visit Kuyogura and Kadocho Breweries for authentic insights
- Savor a unique soy sauce-flavored soft serve ice cream
- Experience the charm of the preserved historic district

Available options

Wakayama: Explore Yuasa, the Origin of Japanese Soy Sauce

What's included

Visit to Kuyogura Brewery

Soy sauce-flavored soft serve ice cream at Kura Café

Guided tour of Yuasa

Visit to Kadocho Soy Sauce Brewery

Detailed itinerary

Yuasa Soy Sauce, produced by Marushin Honke at the Kuyogura Brewery, represents the living heart of Japan’s soy sauce heritage. Using time-honored natural fermentation methods, this brewery continues to make soy sauce just as it was in the Edo period—slowly, patiently, and without mechanical shortcuts. Inside the wooden brewery, visitors can sense the warmth of fermenting moromi and learn how soybeans, wheat, salt, and kōji mold come together through months of transformation. Each wooden vat, aged for decades, tells the story of generations of brewers who mastered the art of time and taste. Yuasa Soy Sauce is more than a condiment—it is the origin of Japan’s culinary identity.

Jinburo, a preserved public bathhouse in Yuasa’s historic district, offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Edo period. Once a place where brewers and merchants gathered after long days of work, it now serves as a small museum showcasing the social culture of Japan’s traditional towns. The wooden tubs, tiled walls, and nostalgic atmosphere evoke a time when bathing was not just for cleansing but for community and relaxation. Visiting Jinburo reveals another side of Yuasa’s heritage—how a town built on craftsmanship also valued the warmth of shared human connection.

Founded over 170 years ago, Kadocho Soy Sauce Brewery is the oldest operating soy sauce brewery in Yuasa—and the only one in Japan that still produces soy sauce exactly as it was made centuries ago. Every step of the process remains unchanged: natural fermentation in wooden barrels, hand mixing of moromi, and aging over many months under the care of skilled craftsmen. No machinery is used; instead, time, temperature, and intuition guide the process. Kadocho is not simply a historical site—it is a living testament to Japan’s fermentation culture, where the balance of nature and craftsmanship continues to create flavor the world has never forgotten.

What's not included

Public transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting Point: In front of the Yuasa Ekikura Tourism Center.
Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign panel.
Please check the map for details.

About Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic temples, and the famous Koyasan (Mount Koya) pilgrimage site. With its rugged mountains, scenic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, Wakayama offers a unique blend of traditional and natural experiences.

Top Attractions

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

A sacred Buddhist monastery town and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Historical/Religious Full day to overnight Moderate to Expensive

Nachi Falls

One of Japan's tallest waterfalls, located near the Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine.

Nature Half day Free to view, fees for shrine and museum

Shirahama Beach

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and a scenic coastline.

Beach Full day Budget to Moderate

Kimii-dera Temple

A historic temple with beautiful gardens and panoramic views of Wakayama City.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Budget

Wakayama Castle

A reconstructed castle with a museum and beautiful gardens, offering insights into Wakayama's samurai history.

Historical 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Wakayama Beef

Tender and flavorful beef, often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Katsuobushi

Fermented, smoked, and dried bonito fish, used to make dashi (stock) and eaten as a topping for various dishes.

Snack/Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Meharizushi

A traditional sushi dish from the Kii Peninsula, made with vinegared rice and fresh seafood or vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian if made with vegetables.

Koyasan Shojin Ryori

Buddhist vegetarian cuisine served in Koyasan, made with seasonal vegetables and tofu.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kumano Beach activities in Shirahama Adventure World amusement park Hot spring baths in Shirahama Temple lodgings in Koyasan Beach relaxation in Shirahama Temple visits in Koyasan Shrine visits in Kumano

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful foliage.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Wakayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas, as weather conditions can change quickly.
• Carry a map or use a reliable navigation app, as some areas may have limited signage.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 80 km from Wakayama City

By train

Wakayama Station

By bus

Wakayama Station Bus Terminal, Osaka Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trains are efficient and punctual, with frequent services. The IC card (Suica, Icoca) can be used for seamless travel.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wakayama City Koyasan (Mount Koya) Shirahama Kumano

Day trips

Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls

80 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring a stunning waterfall and an ancient Shinto shrine.

Shirahama Beach and Adventure World

100 km from Wakayama City • Full day

A popular beach resort area with white sand beaches, hot springs, and an amusement park.

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

50 km from Wakayama City • Full day to overnight

A sacred Buddhist monastery town with temples, graveyards, and pilgrimage routes.

Festivals

Koyasan Fire Festival (Goman-no-Otaki) • March 12-15 Shirahama Summer Festival • July to August Wakayama Castle Festival • April 1-30

Pro tips

Stay overnight in a temple lodging (shukubo) in Koyasan for a unique cultural experience.
Visit Nachi Falls early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Try the local seafood in Shirahama, especially the fresh sushi and grilled fish.
Use an IC card (Suica, Icoca) for seamless travel on trains and buses in Wakayama and the Kansai region.
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.