Half-Day Saijo Tour Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour in Hiroshima

Hiroshima , Japan

Half-Day Saijo Tour Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour in Hiroshima

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About this experience

In the eastern part of Hiroshima prefecture, one can find the unique town of Saijo. Originally a post-town during the Edo Period, this place has grown into one of the main “Sake Capitals” of Japan. The climate and water of this area allow for the production of excellent Sake of the highest quality. To this day, seven breweries in the city continue to produce their Sake using traditional techniques.

This 1-Day Tour has been developed for sake enthusiasts who wish to learn more about the brewing process and also taste different types of high-quality sake. Guests will have the opportunity to step into one of Saijo’s historic breweries, which still retains the appearance it had when it was founded in the early 20th century. Here, you will receive an in-depth tour inside a sake brewery, which will go into the sake making process and techniques.

If you enjoy sake and want to learn about its history and production, this tour is a must

Available options

Half-Day Saijo Tour Sake Tasting and Brewery Tour in Hiroshima

What's included

Sake tasting experience

English speaking guide

Transportation to/from activities (public transport)

Entry fees at all tour locations

Detailed itinerary

We will stroll through Saijo Sake Brewery Street. The street is lined with breweries on all side, most dating back to the early 20th century. You will be able to observe the unique architecture of these buildings, with their white grid walls and red chimneys.

You will also be making stops inside many of these breweries to learn more about the different types of sake which are made in this town.

As we stop inside the breweries, we will of course be taking part in some sake tasting. You will be able to sample Saijo’s highly acclaimed sake from multiple different breweries. The location of this town has provided it with ideal natural conditions which make it an optimal place for sake brewing. This, along with the Hiroshima grown rice and Saijo brewing techniques, will provide you with the opportunity to taste some of the highest quality sake in Western Japan. Additionally, guests will have the chance to purchase sake bottles and other souvenirs as we visit the different breweries.

This is a Shinto shrine, meaning it is dedicated to the gods of Japan’s native religion. Here you will see shrines ranging in various sizes, each dedicated to a different deity. Amongst them is one which is particularly special for the people of Saijo: Matsuo Shrine. Within this shrine lies a ritually divided part of the god from the original Kyoto Matsuo Shrine. This god is said to provide blessings for sake making, thus it is highly venerated by the people of this town. Guests will be taught how to pray at a Shinto shrine and will have the opportunity to do so if they desire.

What's not included

Lunch

Accommodation

Transportation to meeting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

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Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We only serve alcoholic drinks for travelers 20 years old and above. Minor travelers below 20 years old will not be able to partake in the sake tasting experience

Tour Availability Disclaimer: All listed events, activities, and experiences are subject to availability. Please note that while certain tour options may appear bookable through our platforms, this does not guarantee that every experience can be carried out as scheduled in the tour itinerary. Many activities require direct confirmation with our partner venues, and availability may vary based on the date and other factors. Should any part of your ordered itinerary require adjustment or deviation from the original schedule, or if a specific experience is unavailable, we will contact you promptly to discuss suitable alternatives or amendments

Meeting point

The meetup point is under the Tourist Information sign outside of the Shinkansen gates.

If you are arriving via Shinkansen, the sign will be located directly to your left as you exit the gates.

Be sure to look for the guide holding a SNOW MONKEY RESORTS tour sign.

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.