Sake Town Tour in Saijo Hiroshima
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Let’s discover Saijo, one of Japan’s most celebrated sake regions and a truly hidden gem. We will embark on a flavorful journey through its historic breweries. As you stroll down the charming streets, the air fills with the rich, warm aroma of fermenting rice.. With each step, discover the craftsmanship behind Japan’s beloved rice wine in this off-the-beaten-path district, home to eight unique breweries, each with its own time-honored techniques and flavors. We will visit 3-4 breweries during the tour based on opening hours and season.
With an expert guide leading the way, sip on a variety of sake styles—from crisp, dry notes to smooth, fruity finishes—all while admiring the traditional white-walled breweries and towering red brick chimneys that define Saijo’s distinctive skyline. If a particular brew delights your palate, the brewery shops offer exclusive bottles to take home, ensuring you bring a taste of Saijo with you.
Available options
Sake Town Tour in Saijo Hiroshima
What's included
Local English - speaking guide
Shopping time
2 food stops and sake tastings at 4-6 local sake breweries
Lunch and dessert included
Detailed itinerary
1
Tour Highlights:
• 3 hour tour of Saijo district in Hiroshima
• Visit 4-6 local sake breweries to get a sense of the differences, try their sake and other products.
• See how a brewery works and get a sense of what goes into production of the world’s best sake.
• Enjoy a local specialty hot-pot lunch only made in this small, historic town.
• Dessert stop with sweets and snacks.
2
Meeting point - Higashihiroshimashi Information Centre
3
Kyozenji Temple
4
Mitate Shrine
5
Saijosakaguradori Information Centre
6
Senseki Garden
7
Kagamiyama Park
What's not included
Hotel pick up not included (can be arranged for an additional charge). Gratuity
Transportation costs.
Additional drinks or food.
Gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Actual active brewing areas are inaccessible
Bishu Nabe is ordered in advance
Minimum drinking age is 21 years
For solo travelers, please email us
Changes to tours and spots we visit may occur due to schedules of restaurants, public holidays, weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances. Applicable substitutions will be made in this case.
Not recommended for Vegans, Vegetarians, No Seafood and No Pork
Pescetarian and Gluten-free friendly
Meeting point
Meeting point location:
The meeting point is in front of the Higashihiroshimashi Information Centre (東広島市観光案内所) inside Saijo Station.
739-0011 Hiroshima-ken, Higashihiroshima-shi, Saijōhonmachi, 12, 西条本町１２
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Minimum drinking age is 21 years
• Please be there 10-15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. We have a strict policy about starting our tours on the scheduled time. If you are not able to arrive at the meeting point by the departure time, the tour will start regardless and no refund will be provided. We are also unable to accommodate meeting up in any of the food stops once you've missed the start of the tour.
About Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a vibrant city known for its poignant history and remarkable resilience. It is the capital of Hiroshima Prefecture and serves as a powerful reminder of the atomic bombing during World War II, while also offering rich cultural experiences and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Peace Memorial Park and Museum
A poignant and powerful site dedicated to the memory of the atomic bombing in 1945. The park and museum serve as a symbol of peace and a reminder of the horrors of war.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free (Museum: ¥200)
Miyajima Island
A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.
Nature/Historical
Full day
Ferry: ¥360 (round trip), Shrine: ¥300
Shukkeien Garden
A beautiful traditional Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and meticulously landscaped areas. It offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle.
Nature
1-2 hours
¥260
Hiroshima Castle
A reconstructed castle that offers a glimpse into Hiroshima's feudal past. The castle houses a museum and provides panoramic views of the city.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
¥370
Hiroshima Okonomimura
A multi-story building dedicated to Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki (savory pancake). It houses several restaurants and offers a fun, interactive dining experience.
Food/Cultural
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki
A layered savory pancake made with noodles, cabbage, and various toppings, typically cooked on a teppan (iron griddle).
Dinner
Contains wheat, meat, and seafood. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.
Hiroshima-style Oysters
Hiroshima is famous for its oysters, which are often grilled, fried, or served raw. They are typically harvested from the Seto Inland Sea.
Snack/Dinner
Contains shellfish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.
Hiroshima-style Udon
Thick, chewy wheat noodles served in a hot broth, often with various toppings like tempura or beef.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains wheat. Vegetarian and vegan options may be available.
Hiroshima-style Anago Meshi
Grilled saltwater eel served over rice, a local delicacy with a rich, savory flavor.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish. Not suitable for those with seafood allergies.
Popular Activities
Hiking on Miyajima Island
Cycling around Hiroshima
Kayaking in the Seto Inland Sea
Visiting Shukkeien Garden
Taking a leisurely streetcar ride
Enjoying a traditional tea ceremony
Visiting the Peace Memorial Park and Museum
Exploring the Hiroshima Castle
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)
Spring offers cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage. These are the best times to visit for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.
15-25°C
59-77°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
Hiroshima is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and pickpocketing or petty theft is uncommon. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of unlicensed taxis and always check that the taxi has a meter.
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour guides and services, and be wary of offers that seem too good to be true.
Getting there
By air
- Hiroshima Airport • 50 km from city center
By train
Hiroshima Station
By bus
Hiroshima Bus Center
Getting around
Public transport
The streetcar system is the main form of public transport in Hiroshima, offering an affordable and convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Naka-ku
Higashi-ku
Nishi-ku
Minami-ku
Asaminami-ku
Day trips
Miyajima Island
10 km from Hiroshima • Full day
A beautiful island known for its floating torii gate, scenic views, and historic temples. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination near Hiroshima.
Onomichi
80 km from Hiroshima • Full day
A charming port city known for its historic temples, scenic views, and literary connections. Onomichi offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty.
Iwakuni
50 km from Hiroshima • Full day
A historic city known for its stunning castle, beautiful gardens, and traditional samurai district. Iwakuni offers a mix of cultural attractions and scenic views.
Festivals
Hiroshima Flower Festival • May 3-5
Hiroshima International Animation Festival • August (varies by year)
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Ceremony • August 6
Pro tips
- Get a Hiroshima Amazing Pass for unlimited rides on the streetcar, bus, and ferry to Miyajima Island, as well as entry to major attractions.
- Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum early in the morning for a more serene and reflective experience.
- Try cooking your own Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki at Okonomimura for a fun and interactive dining experience.
- Hike Mount Misen on Miyajima Island for stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding area.
- Use IC cards like ICOCA for seamless payments on public transport and to save money on fares.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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