Takayama , Japan

Sake Tasting Tour

Active

(5 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You will enjoy walking through scenic old-town Takayama as you make the rounds of six sake breweries, sampling a variety of different styles. Remember to take it slow. That's a lot of sake!

Your guide is an experienced brewery worker who can explain what gives each sake its unique flavor. By the end of the tour, you should have a good idea of what kind of sake you like, and how to find it.

Adults only, please (20 years old or older).

There is an optional behind-the-scenes tour of the production facilities at one of the breweries (subject to availability).

Available options

Sake Tasting + Brewery Tour

Behind-the-scenes Brewery Tour: A tour of the production facilities at one of the breweries, to see where the sake is made. (Subject to availability)

Sake Tasting Tour

Availability

What's included

Optional factory tour admission fee

Price per person includes a selection of samples from each brewery.

Guide Fee

Detailed itinerary

You may sample the sake made at this historic brewery, and see part of the production facilities.

You can purchase a cup of sake and enjoy it in the scenic courtyard of this historic sake brewery.

This brewery has a very unusual sake. You can purchase a sampler set of three of their most popular products to enjoy in the historic building.

This brewery's flagship sake is the most popular among the locals. You can sample any of their wide range of products.

We will pass through the scenic old town as we walk from one brewery to another (up to seven, if you are up to it).

What's not included

The tour does not include any food

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

I will meet you at the red bridge near the scenic old town and we will proceed to the nearby breweries from there.

About Takayama

Takayama is a charming mountain town in the Japanese Alps known for its well-preserved Edo-era streets, traditional architecture, and rich cultural heritage. It offers a glimpse into Japan's past with its historic districts, vibrant festivals, and delicious local cuisine, particularly its famous Hida beef and sake.

Top Attractions

Old Town (Sannomachi Street)

This well-preserved Edo-era district features beautifully maintained merchant houses, wooden facades, and traditional shops. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of Takayama's cultural heritage.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours Free to explore (individual shops may charge)

Hida Folk Village (Hida no Sato)

An open-air museum featuring 30 traditional thatched-roof houses from the Hida region, showcasing the rural life and architecture of the Edo period.

Cultural/Historical 1-2 hours 600 JPY

Takayama Morning Market

A lively market offering local produce, crafts, and street food. It's a great place to experience the local culture and sample regional delicacies.

Cultural/Market 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to enter (costs vary for food and items)

Takayama Jinya

A historic government office from the Edo period, now a museum showcasing the region's history and the samurai era. It features exhibits on local governance, trade, and daily life.

Historical/Museum 1 hour 320 JPY

Shirakawa-go

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri. This remote mountain village offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Cultural/Historical Half-day to full day Free to enter the village (individual houses may charge for entry)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hida Beef

A premium type of wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It's often served as sukiyaki or grilled.

Main Course Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Gohei Mochi

Grilled rice cakes skewered on bamboo sticks, often served with sweet soy glaze or miso paste.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (check for miso or soy sauce if vegan)

Mitarashi Dango

Sweet rice dumplings skewered and grilled, brushed with a sweet soy-based glaze.

Snack/Dessert Vegetarian (check for soy sauce if vegan)

Hoba Miso

Grilled miso paste on magnolia leaves, often topped with vegetables and Hida beef.

Main Course Contains miso (fermented soybean paste), may contain beef

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Japanese Alps Mountain biking River rafting in the summer Onsen bathing Traditional tea ceremonies Strolling through the old town Visiting temples and shrines Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

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

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. It's the best time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

10°C to 20°C 50°F to 68°F

Practical Information

Language

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

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60Hz (varies by region)Hz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Takayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. The town is well-maintained, and the locals are friendly and helpful.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone in isolated areas late at night

Getting there

By air

Chubu Centrair International Airport • 100 km
Nagoya Airfield (Komaki Airport) • 150 km

By train

Takayama Station

By bus

Takayama Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary mode of public transport. They are punctual and cover most tourist areas. A day pass is available for unlimited rides.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Sannomachi Street) Kamisannomachi Higashiyama

Day trips

Shirakawa-go

60 km • Half-day to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring traditional thatched-roof farmhouses, known as gassho-zukuri. This remote mountain village offers a unique glimpse into rural Japanese life.

Kamikochi

50 km • Full day

A scenic alpine area in the Japanese Alps, offering stunning mountain views, hiking trails, and outdoor activities.

Gero Onsen

30 km • Half-day

A famous hot spring town known for its beautiful natural surroundings and historic inns. It's one of Japan's three most famous hot spring resorts.

Festivals

Takayama Festival (Takayama Matsuri) • April 14-15 (Spring Festival) and October 9-10 (Autumn Festival) Winter Light-Up Festival • December to February Hida Folk Village Festival • Various dates throughout the year (check schedule)

Pro tips

Visit the Takayama Tourism Association for a free map and guide, as well as information on local events and attractions
Try the famous Takayama ramen, a local noodle dish with a rich, miso-based broth
Experience a traditional ryokan stay, complete with multi-course kaiseki meals and onsen baths
Explore the old town in the evening when the streets are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere
Visit the morning market for a taste of local culture and to sample regional delicacies like gohei mochi and mitarashi dango