Hiroshima Saijo Sake Tasting Calligraphy and Dinner Private Tour

Hiroshima , Japan

Hiroshima Saijo Sake Tasting Calligraphy and Dinner Private Tour

Active

(5 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this tour, you'll explore Saijo’s rich sake brewing tradition through a guided visit to three sake breweries. Discover the history and culture of sake, enriched by deep connections to nature, the community, and its people. Taste the unique characteristics of each brewery’s sake and learn about their passion for craftsmanship.
At Sanyotsuru, enjoy a special calligraphy experience using the same spring water used in sake brewing. Grind ink and create your own sake label on special paper, which is typically used for authentic sake labels. This can be your original souvenir．
The tour concludes with a sake and food pairing experience at a local restaurant, featuring Setouchi cuisine which perfectly matched with Saijo sake.
This is an authentic tour where you can immerse yourself in the rich spirit of Japanese hospitality and the profound heart of its culture．

Available options

Hiroshima Saijo Sake Tasting Calligraphy and Dinner Private Tour

What's included

· Experience fees　· Food and beverage costs ・Sake tasting fees (partial) · Souvenirs　・ Insurance

Detailed itinerary

14：05～14：30　Mitate Shrine
Mitate Shrine enshrines the deity of sake and has been cherished by the sake brewers of Saijo for generations. Representatives from the seven breweries gather here to pray before the sake brewing season begins. Since ancient times, Japanese people have celebrated the abundant harvest of rice, used it to brew sake, and offered it to the gods as an expression of gratitude. One essential offering to the gods is omiki—sacred sake made from this precious rice. Here, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the connection between sake and Japan's cultural and spiritual traditions.

14：30～15：00　Kamotsuru Sake Brewing Co. Ltd（Sake museum shop）
At Kamotsuru Sake museum shop, you can learn about the process of sake brewing through unique displays and exhibits. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to sample Junmai Daiginjo Hiroshima Nishiki, a premium sake served to world leaders during the “Working Dinner” at the 2023 G7 Hiroshima Summit. Furthermore, you can taste the well water used for sake brewing, drawn from the Fukujin Well, which is open to the public at this location.

15：10～16：00　Hakubotan Sake Brewery
Hakubotan Brewery boasts a rich history of over 350 years. At Hakubotan, brewery staff will give you a special factory tour of the Tenpo Brewery, which is usually not open to the public. Here, you’ll also enjoy a tasting of frozen namazake (unpasteurized sake) – sake frozen immediately after pressing to preserve its freshness and flavor.

16：15～17：00　Sanyotsuru Sake Brewery
In the charming, traditional interior of Sanyotsuru Brewery, you’ll participate in a unique calligraphy experience. Using spring water from Mount Ryuo and sumi ink, along with traditional Kumano brushes, you will write meaningful words on a sake label while reflecting on your journey in Saijo. This original label will be attached to a sake bottle, resulting in a one-of-a-kind creation. You can take this unique bottle as a souvenir. This activity, called “Tipsy Calligraphy,” invites you to freely express your thoughts and emotions in a relaxed and enjoyable state.

17：00～19：00　 France-ya
France-ya is a restaurant operated by Kamotsuru Brewing. Here, you’ll enjoy bishu-nabe (Saijo’s local hotpot dish made with sake) and other appetizers perfectly paired with Kamotsuru sake. You will also have the opportunity to sample a variety of Kamotsuru’s finest brews.　Enjoy the meal with your local guide, and discover the heart of Japanese traditions and culture through this memorable dining experience.

What's not included

Transportation to the meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

During dinner, there will be sake tasting and comparisons. If you are under 20 years old or unable to consume alcohol, please inform us when booking.

Meeting point

Near the Higashihiroshima City Tourist Information Center outside the Saijo Station ticket gate

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.