Discover why Takayama is one of Japan’s most respected sake towns on this short yet immersive sake tasting experience.

More than 300 years ago, Takayama was home to over 50 sake breweries. Thanks to its cold winters, pure mountain water, and long-standing craftsmanship, the area became a leading centre of sake production. Today, only a few breweries remain, continuing traditions passed down through generations.

For this experience, we work with two historic breweries in Takayama: Hirase Sake Brewery and Funasaka Sake Brewery. Both have more than 300 years of history and continue to represent Takayama’s long-standing sake culture. Depending on brewery opening hours, business conditions, and production schedules, the brewery visited may vary. For hygiene and guest safety reasons, some production areas may not be accessible. Each visit offers a chance to experience Takayama’s sake heritage through one of its long-established local breweries.

On this guided experience, you’ll visit one of these historic local sake breweries and learn how sake is brewed, from ingredients and fermentation to the regional characteristics that shape its flavour. Your local guide explains the process in a clear and approachable way, making the tour suitable for both beginners and experienced sake lovers.

During the tasting, you’ll sample at least five carefully selected local sakes. Depending on the brewery and availability on the day, you may have the opportunity to try six to eight varieties. Learn how to recognise differences in aroma, flavour, and texture, and gain a deeper appreciation of what makes Takayama’s sake unique.

Designed to be short and relaxed, this experience fits easily into your travel schedule. It’s ideal for travellers with limited time, first-time sake drinkers, or anyone looking to enjoy an authentic cultural experience without joining a long tour.

The listed duration is 30 minutes, but the experience may extend slightly depending on the flow of the visit.

Tours are normally conducted in English. If you require another language such as Chinese, Italian, or French, please contact us in advance.

*IMPORTANT: Please arrive at the meeting point 5–10 minutes before the start time. A late start may affect the itinerary, and we may be unable to guarantee the full experience.