Visit this excellent museum dedicated to sake and learn how this popular Japanese drink is brewed.
The Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum presents a well-organized and interesting overview of sake production in Japan. Intimately associated with Japanese culture, sake is an essential component of ceremonies and festivals, as well as a staple beverage stocked in homes across the country. Sake is more than just alcohol it’s a part of Japanese history and tradition. Enjoy this drink that has been part of Japanese tradition for more than 2,000 years.
Visit Kobe’s Nada district, one of the leading sake-brewing areas in Japan. In addition to its ideal weather conditions and high-quality rice, this district’s proximity to Kobe Port has long made it a convenient base for the distribution of sake across the country. First opened in the 18th century, the Hakutsuru Company is one of the primary brewers in Nada, with its modern brewery across the street from the museum.
The sake museum is housed inside one of the company’s former breweries, adding a sense of place and historical relevance to the exhibits. Pick up one of the English pamphlets, which will help guide you through the museum.
As you take in the exhibits, listen carefully to the museum’s sound system. You’ll hear recordings of traditional sake work songs, which are played to recreate the atmosphere of an active brewery. Brewers often sang these songs in order to maintain their motivation during production and focus their attention on the brewing process.
You’ll see numerous mannequins positioned to demonstrate important steps in sake production, such as stirring the yeast or inspecting the mash. Stop to watch the short video explanations found throughout the museum, which detail each step of the brewing process in both Japanese and English.
The final exhibits provide tips on how best to enjoy sake, preparing visitors for the last stop on the tour: the museum’s sake tasting room. Enjoy a few free sake samples with a new appreciation of how this important drink is made.
The Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum is located a short walk away from Hanshin Sumiyoshi Station. The museum is closed on Mondays, but it is otherwise open year-round. Admission is free.
