Former Sake Brewery Tour and Guided Tasting

Nagano , Japan

Former Sake Brewery Tour and Guided Tasting

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Learn the secrets of the local Japanese Sake, an integral part of the Japanese Culture!

A good quality of Sake requires a great natural environment, such as you find in Nagano Prefecture - home to some of Japan’s finest sake breweries, where centuries of tradition continue to thrive in every bottle.

Learn all the different steps involved in producing Sake with the help of your guide. A former brewery worker will walk you through each step of the sake-making process and share stories about the rich history of brewing in Nagano.

Then you can savor several varieties of sake produced by the brewery, gaining a new appreciation for the time and craftsmanship behind each one. Led throughout by your guide, it’s the perfect way to round out an immersive, informative, and warming tour.

Please note this sake brewery is NOT an active brewery.
This tour is designed as an educational and tasting experience, focused on the history of the brewery, the city, and the local beverage culture.

Available options

Former Sake Brewery Tour and Guided Tasting

What's included

Sake and miso tasting (including non-alcoholic options)

English or French speaking Guide

Guided tour of the former sake brewery with a local staff member

Souvenir sake glass

Detailed itinerary

Take a tour of a local former Sake brewery. You’ll get a glimpse inside the makings of Japanese history, culture and society.

This sake brewery was established in 1637, during a time when samurai, lords, and the shogun still walked the streets. It remained active until 2010 and is now open to the public year-round, including winter, which is typically the brewing season when most sake breweries close their doors to visitors.

After touring the former Sake brewery, you’ll have the chance to taste a variety of sake, from dry to floral to rich tasting, each one introduced by your guide and the knowledgeable shop staff. Whether you’re a seasoned sake enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this tasting offers a warm and memorable introduction to the local flavors of Nagano.

While the process of making sake is akin to brewing beer, the finished product is best paired with different foods like western wine, designed to match the flavor profiles of any local meal!

What's not included

Miscellaneous fees during the activity (meals, snacks, extra souvenirs etc.)

Insurance (Travel Insurance, Private Insurance, etc...)

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please note this sake brewery is NOT an active brewery.

The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years and over. Persons under that age are not allowed to consume alcohol on this tour.

There is no minimum age requirements

Children less than 6 years old can participate for free (Please note that we can arrange free soft drinks for children’s)

Meeting point

Your guide will meet you in front of the Niomon Gate (Zenkoji Temple) and lead you to the first activity location.

About Nagano

Nagano, the capital of Nagano Prefecture, is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Known for its role in the 1998 Winter Olympics, Nagano offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture, stunning mountain landscapes, and world-class ski resorts. The city is a gateway to some of Japan's most famous hot springs and ancient temples.

Top Attractions

Zenko-ji Temple

Zenko-ji is one of Japan's most important Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century. It is a significant pilgrimage site and a symbol of Nagano's spiritual heritage.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani

The Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani are a famous attraction, known for their unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.

Nature Half day to full day ¥800 (adults) or ¥400 (children)

Nagano Olympic Museum

This museum commemorates the 1998 Winter Olympics held in Nagano. It features exhibits on the history of the Olympics, the events held in Nagano, and the athletes who participated.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥500 (adults) or ¥200 (children)

Togakushi Shrine

Togakushi Shrine is a complex of three shrines dedicated to the Shinto goddess of archery. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.

Religious Half day Free (donations appreciated)

Shiga Kogen

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, known for its extensive ski runs, modern facilities, and beautiful mountain scenery.

Adventure Full day or overnight ¥4,000 - ¥6,000 (lift tickets)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Soba Noodles

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and are a staple of Nagano's cuisine. They can be served hot or cold, with various toppings and dipping sauces.

Dish Vegetarian (if no meat or fish toppings are added)

Oyaki

Oyaki are dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are a popular snack in Nagano and are often served with meals.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Sake

Nagano is known for its high-quality sake, made from locally grown rice. The region has numerous sake breweries, offering a variety of flavors and styles.

Drink Contains alcohol

Onsen Ryori

Onsen Ryori is a type of cuisine served in hot spring resorts. It typically consists of dishes made with local ingredients, such as vegetables, fish, and tofu, cooked in the hot spring water.

Dish Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Mountain biking Hot air ballooning Hot spring bathing Temple visiting Shopping

Best Time to Visit

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the peak season for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The city hosts numerous winter festivals and events. Expect heavy snowfall and cold temperatures.

-2°C to 5°C (28°F to 41°F) 28°F to 41°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: Generally safe

Nagano is a generally safe destination for travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is uncommon. However, travelers should still take precautions to protect their belongings and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxis and tour services.

Getting there

By air

Nagano Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center
Chubu Centrair International Airport • 200 km (124 miles) from the city center

By train

Nagano Station

By bus

Nagano Station Bus Terminal, Zenko-ji Temple Bus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

The city bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Nagano, covering most areas of the city and connecting to major attractions. Buses are frequent and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Nagano Togakushi Shiga Kogen

Day trips

Shiga Kogen

50 km (31 miles) from Nagano • Full day or overnight

Shiga Kogen is one of Japan's largest and most popular ski resorts, offering a wide range of winter and summer activities. It is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Togakushi

20 km (12 miles) from Nagano • Half day

Togakushi is a rural area known for its ancient shrines, soba noodles, and hiking trails. It is a popular destination for both spiritual and cultural tourism.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

60 km (37 miles) from Nagano • Half day to full day

Jigokudani Monkey Park is a popular destination for observing wild Japanese macaques, known as snow monkeys, in their natural habitat. The park is especially famous for the monkeys' unique behavior of bathing in hot springs during the winter months.

Festivals

Nagano Winter Festival • February Nagano Summer Festival • August Togakushi Fire Festival • February 3rd

Pro tips

Visit Zenko-ji Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Try Togakushi's famous soba noodles at a local restaurant, such as Soba Koenji or Soba Nagano.
Take a day trip to Shiga Kogen for skiing, snowboarding, or hiking, depending on the season.
Experience the Nagano Winter Festival in February for a unique and memorable cultural event.
Visit the Snow Monkeys of Jigokudani in winter to see the monkeys bathing in the hot springs.