Top Asia Sake Tasting - page 26

• Watch master sushi craftsmanship up close • Dine in a hidden sushi restaurant away from the tourist crowds • Enjoy an omakase dinner featuring approximately 13 dishes, including sushi, seasonal tempura, and Kyoto-inspired specialties, along with 3 drinks. • Learn about authentic Kyoto sushi culture and traditions ・Enjoy dining at a highly sought-after sushi restaurant that can be difficult to book on your own One of the highlights of this experience is the opportunity to watch a skilled sushi chef at work right in front of you. Observe the chef’s precise knife skills, expert preparation techniques, and the craftsmanship involved in creating each piece of sushi by hand. This close-up view of Japanese culinary artistry offers a unique insight into Kyoto’s food culture. Enjoy a 13-course meal featuring chef-selected nigiri sushi, seasonal tempura, and traditional Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine, along with three drinks.

• An immersive experience that allows you to enjoy the cultural and natural background with all five senses, centered around doburoku, a traditional sake • At Dejima Hosendo, the entire process of making authentic "Ginjo sake" is carried out solely by the hands of the brewers, combining the best techniques they have refined in the sake brewery • A two-hour experience that awakens the five senses—sight, touch, hearing, smell, and taste—at the counter bar • Explore the story of rice cultivation in Japan and its transformation into sake • At the brewer's invitation, you can compare the different flavors of doburoku, made by using various brewing methods, in special sake cups • The proprietress's homemade dishes are served for the pairing with the drinks during the tasting • Souvenirs of doburoku and sake cups are included • The experience takes place at Dejima in Nagasaki that place is as a symbol of cultural exchange • Convenient access to the brewery as it's located in an urban area

Enjoy an evening strolling through the lively streets of Ueno while visiting three different izakaya — traditional Japanese-style pubs — each offering its own unique atmosphere and selection of food and drinks. As you hop from one cozy spot to another, you’ll experience the charm of local nightlife and the warm hospitality that defines Tokyo’s classic drinking culture. At the second izakaya, indulge yourself with an all-you-can-eat and all-you-can-drink experience, where you can savor a wide variety of delicious Japanese dishes and beverages to your heart’s content. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, chat with friends, and immerse yourself in the joyful energy of Ueno’s evening scene.

Escape the crowds and discover two hidden gems on this peaceful 5hour tour. Start by exploring Lake Tanuki, known for its breathtaking, close-up reflections of Mt.Fuji. It is a popular, serene getaway for camping, cycling, and fishing, particularly famous for the "Double Diamond Fuji" phenomenon occurring in April and August. The surrounding area offers stunning seasonal views, including cherry blossoms in spring, fireflies in summer, and autumn foliage. Next stop is a traditional Japanese Sake brewery, where visitors can savour the authentic taste.

Escape the crowds and discover two hidden gems on this peaceful 5hour tour. Start by exploring Lake Tanuki, known for its breathtaking, close-up reflections of Mt.Fuji. It is a popular, serene getaway for camping, cycling, and fishing, particularly famous for the "Double Diamond Fuji" phenomenon occurring in April and August. The surrounding area offers stunning seasonal views, including cherry blossoms in spring, fireflies in summer, and autumn foliage. Next stop is a traditional Japanese Sake brewery, where visitors can savour the authentic taste.

With the flexibility to choose your departure time and itinerary, this tour is perfect for those who want to explore specific locations at a more leisurely pace or for those who want to explore at a family-friendly pace. Enjoy a personalized experience with this private tour. Explore hidden spots and local alleyways that tourists won't find. Enjoy a private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off. Capture unforgettable memories at some of the most Instagrammable photo spots.

・Tsukiji Hongwanji Temple (15m): Admire a landmark blending Indian stone architecture with Japanese spirit. See unique animal carvings and stained glass while learning the dramatic history of its reconstruction. ・Tsukiji Outer Market (45m): Dive into the "Kitchen of Tokyo." Savor charcoal-grilled Wagyu Beef Skewers and fluffy Tamagoyaki as your guide leads you through the crowds for a true local experience. ・Historic Specialty Store (20m): Cleanse your palate at a century-old shop. Sample chilled teas, savory beans, and dashi broth to enjoy a moment of calm authentic tradition amidst the market energy. ・Sommelier-Led Sake Journey (40m): Conclude with a certified sommelier. Compare premium Sake paired with steamed scallops, then receive personalized lunch recommendations for the rest of your trip. [Note] Wagyu Skewer, Tamagoyaki, Tea/Bean Sampling, and Sake Flight with scallops are included!

・Hidden Sake Sanctuary : Escape the bustling market and step into a serene bar known only to locals. Your guide bridges the cultural gap, welcoming you into an intimate space filled with the inviting aroma of premium craftsmanship. ・Sensory Tasting Journey : Dive into a flavor masterclass with four distinct sakes, from floral Ginjo to unpasteurized Namagenshu. Distinguish subtle nuances as your guide demystifies complex labels, tailoring the tasting to your specific palate. ・The Perfect Pairing : Discover the art of "Mariage" by pairing savory steamed scallops with specific brews. Bring your own market sashimi if you like, and learn exactly which sake complements your snacks for a unique dining experience. ・Expert Conclusion : Leave equipped with the knowledge to order sake confidently. Take home a special Brewery Map and receive professional advice on finding the ideal souvenir bottle to remember your journey. [Note] Four sake tastings & steamed scallops are included!

Kumamoto is full of amazing food — if you know where to look. Skip the guesswork and let a local guide (born and living in Kumamoto) take you to the city’s hidden izakaya gems that even many locals don’t know about. On this relaxed night tour, we’ll visit 2–3 authentic neighborhood spots where you’ll enjoy unique local dishes, regional drinks. If you want to go beyond the guidebooks and experience Kumamoto like a local, this is the perfect way to do it.

Step into a hidden corner of Osaka for a dining experience unlike any other. ODORU—meaning “excitement”—offers a mindful 6-course plant-based meal with 15 seasonal dishes on a large lacquer tray, inspired by Shojin Ryori. Using organic or low-chemical ingredients, additive-free, and prepared without the five pungent roots, each bite brings natural umami. Between courses, enjoy a playful chopstick challenge, explore fermented aromas, uncover nukazuke secrets, learn the meaning of Itadakimasu and Gochisosama, and try writing Hiragana while sipping tea. Perfect for families, friends, or solo adventurers—We’ll guide you in English, sharing stories through flavors that make your trip unforgettable. An evening to taste, touch, smell, and connect—where Japan’s dining spirit meets warm local hospitality. Reserve your seat and experience the Osaka moment that you just discovered.

This 7-day tour is crafted to give you a glimpse of Japan's rich culinary heritage and cultural treasures. This tour includes stops in Tokyo and the iconic Mount Fuji, setting the backdrop for a visit to Hakone’s hot springs. In Kyoto, learn and watch the process of how traditional mochi is made, and check out the famous free-roaming deer at Nara Park. At Osaka, indulge the street food delights of the Kuromon Ichiba Fish Market and more! With this week-long adventure, UME promises to take you on a cultural & culinary odyssey through the very best Japan has to offer.

Led by a Fushimi local and former brewery worker, this tour combines authentic sake tastings with insider stories you won’t find in guidebooks. From the Gekkeikan Sake Museum to hidden cafés and specialty shops, guests discover the history, culture, and flavors of Kyoto’s sake district in a truly local way.

Kurahashi Island in Hiroshima Prefecture is a tranquil island in the Seto Inland Sea with several remarkable attractions, from breathtaking mountain vistas and hot springs to a world-renowned brand and Japan’s finest craftsmanship. Departing Kure Station by taxi, you drive to Kurahashi Island and hike rocky Mt. Hiyama. Towards the summit, breathtaking panoramas of the Inland Sea unfold. After descending the mountain, you drop into the natural hot spring by the seaside at Katsurahama to freshen up before lunch of regional specialties of the Seto Inland Sea. The afternoon is spent enjoying the island’s unexpected cultural treasures, visiting the F.H. Royce Museum with its remarkable collection of Rolls-Royces and Bentleys. The last stop of the day is Hayashi Shuzo, a sake brewery founded in the Edo period, which also houses a huge collection of kimono created by master craftsmen. You can taste and purchase sake at the brewery.

This 2-night, 3-day tour is a gastronomic and cultural journey across the Seto Inland Sea, designed for international travellers with a deep interest in Japanese food culture and regional lifestyles. Departing from Matsuyama in Shikoku, off the typical tourist route, and travelling to Kure using a combination of private vehicle and ferry, you experience the unique proximity of the sea and people in the Seto Inland Sea while exploring the distinct sake, cuisine, and history of the region.

Experience Yokohama’s real nightlife with a local guide who knows every corner of Noge — a lively district filled with tiny bars, cozy izakayas, and endless stories. Step off the tourist path and dive into places you won’t find in any guidebook. Together, we’ll hop between authentic local bars where friendly owners and regulars welcome you with smiles, laughter, and good drinks. Taste Japanese sake, beer, and street food, and feel what it’s like to truly drink like a local. This is a private and personalized walking tour, designed around your pace and preferences. Whether you’re into lively bars, quiet hideaways, or curious to try something new, I’ll take you to the best hidden gems that match your style. It’s a casual, unforgettable night out in Yokohama — full of conversation, culture, and connection. By the end of the night, you won’t just have photos — you’ll have memories, friends, and stories to tell.

1. The "Master's View" from the Counter You take a seat at a professional sushi counter, just like a discerning local guest. You will experience the same focused energy and refined atmosphere as a real "Omakase" session. We don’t just show you how to press rice; we teach you the traditional philosophy and the secret etiquette that will make you look like a pro next time you visit a high-end sushi restaurant. 2. A Symphony of 8 Varieties & Premium Pairings While others might offer 3 or 4 basic toppings, we challenge you with 8 different seasonal varieties. Experience how different fish require different techniques! To elevate your creation, choose between a mindful Matcha whisking session or a curated Sake flight (up to 5 types!) to discover your favorite flavor profile.

Discover hidden Tokyo through a local’s eyes. Enjoy a private dining experience in authentic, non-touristy restaurants carefully selected for you by your personal food concierge. Join a unique private dining experience led by a local Tokyo guide. Instead of following a set tour, you’ll be taken to one of Tokyo’s hidden restaurants—places that don’t appear in guidebooks or on social media. Each restaurant is personally selected based on your preferences and mood. I can cater to your needs, offering Wagyu beef yakiniku, steak, sukiyaki, yakitori, tonkatsu, Japanese cuisine, izakaya, sushi, ramen, soba, udon, hamburgers, Japanese set meals, curry, eel, Italian, French, patisserie, and more. Please inquire about vegan and halal options. The experience includes planning and on-site guidance. Food and drinks are paid separately at the restaurant. The host’s meal cost (the guest covers the host’s share at the restaurant). I am not a professional English guide.

Immerse yourself in the everyday food culture of Kaizuka, a charming local town just 20 minutes from Kansai International Airport. This flexible food and drink hopping tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience authentic local Japan beyond typical tourist areas. Select three local restaurants or bars to explore at a relaxed pace. Conveniently located near Kansai International Airport, this tour allows for a seamless experience with free luggage storage. An English-speaking staff member will be available to guide you, ensuring you visit the venues that excite your palate. This tour is perfect for food enthusiasts looking to experience authentic local flavors in a relaxed setting. - Discover Kaizuka's local eateries at your own pace - Easy access from Kansai International Airport via Nankai Kaizuka Station (just 2 stops from Kaisai Int'l Airport !) - English-speaking staff member for a smooth culinary adventure

Discover Nadagogo, Japan’s most famous sake region producing over 30% of the nation’s sake. This immersive tour takes you through historic brewery areas like Uozaki, Mikage, Nishinomiya, and Imazu, where tradition and craftsmanship thrive. You’ll step inside working breweries, learn how sake is crafted, and taste premium styles such as ginjo, daiginjo, nama genshu, and taruzake. This tour offers personal guidance, cultural depth, and stories that bring the world of sake to life. Highlights Visit 5–8 renowned breweries Two exclusive brewery tours Premium sake tastings Local lunch set at a brewery restaurant Hands-on kanji brush-pen activity Sake-related gifts and a personalized booklet Guided entirely in English by a passionate local expert Perfect For Sake lovers, first-time visitors, couples, and travelers seeking a unique and meaningful cultural experience in Kobe. Join a memorable journey into the heart of Japan’s sake tradition—where every sip tells a story.

Think of it less as a “tour” and more like exploring Kyoto with a knowledgeable local friend—unhurried, informal, and focused on enjoyment rather than ticking boxes. I’ve lived in Kyoto for many years, so this tour I can adapt the pace, focus, and stops to your interests—whether that’s history, food, culture, photography, or simply wandering and soaking up the atmosphere.

A Refined Encounter with Nature and Fermentation Pedal through the gentle landscapes of Maniwa’s satoyama countryside on an e-bike, where every turn reveals a blend of natural beauty and cultural depth. Along the way, enjoy private visits to sake breweries and vinegar cellars, each steeped in tradition and excellence. Pause for a specially prepared fermentation-inspired lunch, savoring the harmony of local ingredients and artisanal techniques. This slow, guided journey combines wellness, culture, and indulgence – a unique cycling experience designed for the discerning traveler.

Delve into the rich traditions of Japan with a visit to Nakazawa Sake Brewery, where sake has been brewed since 1825. Witness the intricate brewing process through an informative video, followed by a tasting experience of up to three cups of sake, with the option to taste more cups and to purchase your favorite. After 5-minute bus ride and 20-minute walk in the beautiful countryside with spread over rice fields, arrive at Seto Sake Brewery which has also long brewed sake since 1865. Enjoy tasting sake in the traditional Japanese house viewing the beautiful Japanese garden and relax yourself. Off course, buy bottles if you find your favorite. Within a few minutes walk reach Seto Yashiki which was the residence of the landlord of this area for generations. The huge main building covered with large thatched roof, storehouse, water mill and well still retain their original appearance. A peaceful rural landscape surrounds the house and you can take a moment to relax.

Discover the intricate world of sake in this guided tasting experience in Shinjuku. Led by a certified sake sommelier, this course caters to all levels—from beginners to avid fans—providing insights into sake's unique characteristics and brewing methods. Sample a diverse range of sakes, from beloved classics to rare varieties, while engaging with a professional who brings the history and culture of sake to life. Optional food pairings enhance the experience, showcasing the delightful synergy between sake and Japanese cuisine.

Immerse yourself in Japan's rich drinking culture with a premium small-group izakaya experience in Tokyo. Hosted by a World Kikisake-shi Competition finalist, this unique tour offers an authentic dive into how sake is shared and enjoyed in local settings. Discover the customs surrounding sake with curated pairings of food and drink, and practice pouring sake for one another—an important aspect of Japanese social interactions. This intimate experience, designed for those seeking a deeper cultural understanding, allows for personal engagement and conversation, enhancing your appreciation of Japan’s sake traditions. - Duration: 2 hours of engaging cultural immersion in Tokyo - Small group size for personalized interaction and learning - Enjoy curated sake and food pairings under expert guidance - No prior knowledge required, perfect for all sake enthusiasts