Kobe Sake Brewery Walking Tour with Local Guide

We meet at Hanshin Sumiyoshi Station, where your guide will give a short welcome briefing, including self-introductions and an overview of the tour. After that, we take a 7-minute walk from the station while learning about Kobe’s geography, the Nada Gogo sake-producing area, and why this region became one of Japan’s most important sake-brewing centers.

Stop 1: Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum (Approx. 1 hour) Our first stop is the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, operated by one of Japan’s most well-known sake brands with a long history of large-scale brewing. Here, many historical tools and documents have been carefully preserved. While viewing these valuable materials together, your guide will explain the traditional sake brewing process, its history, and how sake differs from other alcoholic beverages. After the visit, enjoy a tasting of 3–5 types of sake, followed by free time for shopping and souvenirs.

Stop 2: Kikumasamune Sake Brewery (Approx. 30 minutes) We then walk about 10 minutes to Kikumasamune, a brewery famous for its dry, bold style of sake, often referred to as otokozake (masculine sake). Each brewery in Nada has its own philosophy and flavor profile, and here you’ll enjoy a different selection of 3–5 sake tastings that highlight Kikumasamune’s distinctive character. If you prefer a break from alcohol, you may choose sake lees soft-serve ice cream instead (subject to availability).

Stop 3: Sakura Masamune Sake Brewery (Approx. 30 minutes) OR Optional Lunch (Approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes) After a 7-minute walk, we arrive at the final brewery, Sakura Masamune, known for its elegant, well-balanced sake and its close connection to food pairing. Another tasting session is included here. An optional lunch can be added at this location, featuring a beautifully prepared seasonal meal designed to pair well with sake. Your guide will assist with menu selection, so no worries even if you’re unfamiliar with the dishes.

Perfect for both beginners and sake lovers, this guided tour lets you explore Kobe’s famous sake district at a relaxed pace. Enjoy multiple tastings, learn how to taste and compare sake, and discover local favorites without worrying about directions or planning. With easy access from the station and a friendly guide, it’s a fun and approachable way to experience Japanese sake culture.