Hyogo: Tamba-Sasayama Sake Tasting Tour with Tamba Toji

Hyogo Prefecture , Japan

Hyogo: Tamba-Sasayama Sake Tasting Tour with Tamba Toji

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About this experience

Explore the rich traditions of Japanese sake in Tamba-Sasayama, a region celebrated for its master brewers, the Tamba Toji. The tour includes a visit to the Tamba Toji Sake Brewing Museum, where you'll learn the intricate techniques involved in sake production, from rice polishing to fermentation. Transitioning to the lively Houmei Shuzo’s Horoyoi Jokagura brewery, witness how historical practices blend with innovative methods, including the unique use of music to enhance fermentation. The experience culminates in a guided tasting of premium sake varieties, where you’ll discover the nuances that define each brew.

- Discover the art of sake-making at the Tamba Toji Sake Brewing Museum
- Visit a functioning brewery and learn about unique brewing methods
- Enjoy a guided tasting of premium ginjo, junmai, and fuller-bodied sakes
- Personalized assistance available for purchasing sake that matches your taste

Available options

Hyogo: Tamba-Sasayama Sake Tasting Tour with Tamba Toji

What's included

Guided sake tasting session

Visit to Tamba Toji Sake Brewing Museum

Visit to Histrical Sake brewery

Detailed itinerary

The Tamba Toji Sake Brewing Museum offers an in-depth look at the traditions and craftsmanship of the Tamba Toji, one of Japan’s most respected guilds of master brewers. Housed in a historic building, the museum showcases traditional brewing tools, fermentation equipment, and detailed exhibits that explain each stage of sake production—from rice polishing to koji making and temperature control. Visitors can learn how sake was once made entirely by hand, guided by the intuition and技 of the toji, whose skills were refined over centuries in the cool climate of the Tamba region. It is an ideal starting point for anyone wishing to understand the cultural and technical foundations of Japanese sake.

Houmei Shuzo’s Horoyoi Jokagura is an active sake brewery where tradition and innovation coexist. Visitors can explore the atmospheric brewing space filled with wooden vats, stirring paddles, steaming baskets, and fermentation tanks that reflect generations of craftsmanship. The brewery is known for its unique approach of playing the local Dekansho-bushi folk song and even Mozart directly to the fermentation tanks, a practice believed to create a calmer environment for the yeast. In addition to learning about these techniques, guests can enjoy a guided tasting of the brewery’s premium sakes, gaining insight into the nuanced flavors and aromas that define Tamba’s brewing culture. It is a rare chance to experience the living heart of sake-making in Tamba-Sasayama.

What's not included

Meals

Transportation to and from the location

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour includes an alcoholic beverage tasting. Under Japanese law, only guests aged 20 and above are permitted to participate.

Meeting point

Meet in front of the Tamba Toji Sake Brewing Museum. Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign. Please refer to the map for details.

About Hyogo Prefecture

Hyogo Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, is a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Known for its historic sites, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes, Hyogo offers a diverse travel experience that includes the iconic Kobe beef, the scenic Koko no Highwood, and the historic Himeji Castle. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Kobe or the serene mountains of the Kinki region, Hyogo has something for every traveler.

Top Attractions

Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle, also known as the White Heron Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan's most famous castles. It is renowned for its elegant white exterior and well-preserved wooden structures.

Historical 2-3 hours ¥1,000

Kobe Beef

Kobe beef is one of Japan's most famous culinary delights. Known for its tenderness, marbling, and rich flavor, it is a must-try for any food enthusiast.

Cultural 1-2 hours ¥5,000 to ¥20,000

Koko no Highwood

Koko no Highwood is a scenic area located in the Rokko Mountains. It offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kobe, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kobe Beef

Tender, marbled beef from Tajima cattle, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Main course Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Okonomiyaki

A savory Japanese pancake made with cabbage, batter, and various toppings, often cooked on a griddle.

Main course Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Sake

Traditional Japanese rice wine, with many local breweries in the Nada district.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rokko Mountains Mountain biking in the Kinki region Onsen (hot spring) bathing in Arima Onsen Strolling through Kobe Harborland Visiting Himeji Castle Exploring the Nada Sake District Ferry ride to Awaji Island Skiing and snowboarding in the Rokko Mountains

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer comfortable weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The cherry blossoms in spring and the vibrant foliage in autumn are major attractions.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hyogo Prefecture is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps to avoid scams.
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services, as they may be trying to scam you.

Getting there

By air

Kobe Airport • 10 km from Kobe city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 30 km from Kobe city center

By train

Kobe Station, Sannomiya Station

By bus

Kobe Sanda Premium Outlets, Kobe Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The train network in Hyogo Prefecture is efficient and covers most of the major cities and tourist attractions. The Shinkansen connects Kobe to other major cities in Japan.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sannomiya Nada

Day trips

Awaji Island

30 km from Kobe • Full day

Awaji Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and the famous Awaji Puppet Theater.

Arima Onsen

20 km from Kobe • Half day

Arima Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring towns, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Kobe Luz Festival • Late January to early February Kobe Port Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Himeji Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the castle in the morning light.
Try different cooking methods for Kobe beef, such as steak, sukiyaki, and teppanyaki, to experience the full range of flavors.
Explore the Nada Sake District for a unique cultural experience, with sake tasting tours and traditional breweries.
Visit Koko no Highwood during sunset for the most breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and the city of Kobe.
Stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) for a unique and authentic experience, with tatami mats, onsen (hot spring) baths, and traditional Japanese cuisine.