Hiroshima/The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake Learn and Taste

Hiroshima’s rich heritage as the birthplace of premium Ginjo sake beckons travelers to embark on a journey of discovery. This serene city offers a unique opportunity to take in the artistry and traditions behind Japan’s beloved beverage. Visitors can explore local breweries, savor exquisite tastings, and uncover the secrets that give Hiroshima’s Ginjo sake its distinctive character. From the perfect climate to the meticulous brewing process, there’s much to uncover in this sake-lover’s paradise.

Key Points

• Explore the vibrant culture and resilience of Hiroshima, the birthplace of renowned Ginjo sake, a premium and fragrant beverage.
• Discover the meticulous brewing process that highlights the delicate flavors of Ginjo sake, influenced by the ideal climate and natural resources.
• Set out on a private tour guided by a licensed local interpreter, including a Shinkansen ride, a visit to Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, and a France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch.
• Enjoy sake tasting and collect sake labels to create a personalized sake seal book, capturing the heritage and artistry of sake.
• Convenient transportation and meeting points, with the tour starting and ending at the Hiroshima Tourist Information center, providing a seamless experience.

Overview of Hiroshima and Ginjo Sake

As the historic city of Hiroshima is known for its vibrant culture and resilience, it’s also the birthplace of the renowned Ginjo sake.

This premium, fragrant sake is a point of pride for the region, crafted using a meticulous brewing process that brings out its delicate flavors.

Hiroshima’s ideal climate and abundant natural resources contribute to the exceptional quality of Ginjo sake, making it a must-try for any sake enthusiast.

Exploring Hiroshima’s sake breweries provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and artistry behind this celebrated Japanese beverage.

Details of the Private Tour

Travelers eager to uncover the secrets behind Hiroshima’s renowned Ginjo sake can embark on a private tour that promises an immersive experience.

Guided by a licensed local interpreter, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the birthplace of this prestigious sake. The highlights include:

• A Shinkansen ride to Akitsu, followed by a taxi to Saijo, the epicenter of Ginjo sake production.
• A delectable France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch in Saijo, savoring the local flavors.
• A visit to the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine to receive a special shrine stamp.
• Tasting and collecting sake labels from various breweries, creating a personalized sake seal book.

Transportation and Meeting Points

Getting to the tour’s starting point in Hiroshima is straightforward, as the meeting location is the Hiroshima Tourist Information center in the city’s Minami Ward. From there, the tour takes guests on a journey by Shinkansen (bullet train) and taxi to Akitsu, then to Saijo by taxi. The return trip is by JR train back to Hiroshima Station.

Transportation	From	To	Cost
Shinkansen & Taxi	Hiroshima Station	Akitsu	Included
Taxi	Akitsu	Saijo	Included
JR Train	Saijo	Hiroshima Station	Included

The tour ends back at the Hiroshima Tourist Information center, providing a convenient start and finish.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes a France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch in Saijo, as well as a shrine stamp from the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine.

Participants will also receive a sake seal book and the cost of sake labels for each brewery visited. The total price for this experience starts from $226.24 per person, with variations based on group size.

This fee covers:

• A delectable regional lunch
• A keepsake stamp from a historic shrine
• A personalized sake souvenir book
• Samples and labels from acclaimed breweries

Guests can further indulge in souvenirs and personal purchases throughout the day.

Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine and Sake Seal Book

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, where participants receive a special stamp to commemorate their journey. This sacred site is believed to protect the local sake breweries. After the shrine, guests explore a sake seal book – a unique souvenir that lets them collect labels from each brewery they visit. It’s a delightful way to capture the essence of their sake tasting adventure.

Shrine Stamp	Sake Seal Book
Commemorates the tour	Collects labels from breweries
Connects to local tradition	Preserves memories of the journey
Enhances the overall experience	Makes a one-of-a-kind keepsake
Deepens understanding of sake culture	Allows personalization and creativity
Provides a tangible reminder of the visit	Becomes a treasured memento of the trip

France-yas Bishu-nabe Lunch in Saijo

One of the highlights of the sake tour is the France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch in Saijo. This traditional hot pot dish features a rich, savory broth infused with the region’s renowned Bishu sake.

The experience is a true delight for the senses:

• The aromatic steam wafting through the air
• The tender, flavorful pieces of local pork and vegetables
• The satisfying sips of the smooth, fragrant Bishu sake
• The convivial atmosphere as guests share the communal dish

This immersive culinary experience perfectly complements the sake tasting, offering a well-rounded exploration of Hiroshima’s renowned local specialties.

Sake Tasting at Local Breweries

After the delightful France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch, guests embark on the main highlight of the tour: sake tasting at local breweries in the renowned Saijo district.

They’ll visit family-owned establishments that have been crafting premium Ginjo sake for generations. Guests learn the intricate process, from selecting the finest local rice to the precise milling and fermentation techniques.

They’ll sample a variety of sake styles, from light and fruity to rich and complex. With knowledgeable guides, guests gain an appreciation for the care and traditions behind each sip.

It’s a truly immersive experience in Hiroshima’s vibrant sake culture.

Souvenirs and Personal Purchases

As the sake tasting concludes, guests have the opportunity to enjoy the local culture further by exploring the many souvenir shops and boutiques scattered throughout the Saijo district.

Perusing the quaint storefronts, visitors can uncover a trove of authentic Japanese treasures, from traditional woodblock prints and delicate origami to artisanal ceramics and handcrafted sake cups.

Local delicacies, like fragrant green tea and mouthwatering rice crackers, make for delightful edible souvenirs.

For those seeking a more personal memento, custom-stamped sake bottles or handwritten calligraphy scrolls are sure to capture the essence of the Hiroshima experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code. Casual, comfortable clothing is recommended, as you’ll be walking and exploring. Opt for layers in case the weather changes during the day.

Is Photography Allowed at the Sake Breweries?

Photography is generally allowed at the sake breweries. Visitors can capture the traditional brewing process and scenic views of the facilities. However, it’s best to check with the guide or staff beforehand to ensure compliance with any brewery-specific policies.

Can We Purchase Additional Sake Bottles During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional sake bottles during the tour. The tour includes a sake seal book and the cost of sake labels for each brewery, allowing participants to buy more bottles as souvenirs if desired.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Sake Tasting?

There are no age restrictions for the sake tasting. The tour is open to all travelers, and the guide will ensure everyone can participate in the sake sampling experience throughout the day.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The tour operator is flexible and happy to accommodate specific requests to ensure you have the best experience possible on your sake tasting adventure in Hiroshima.

The Sum Up

Hiroshima’s Ginjo sake offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can explore local breweries, savor exquisite tastings, and collect sake labels as keepsakes. The region’s ideal climate and rich natural resources produce delicate, fragrant Ginjo sake that celebrates Hiroshima’s rich brewing heritage. This immersive tour provides a delightful way to discover the artistry and passion behind this premium beverage.