Hiroshima/The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake Learn and Taste

Hiroshima is renowned as the birthplace of Ginjo sake, a premium rice wine celebrated for its delicate flavors and complex aromas. Visitors can embark on a journey to explore this renowned sake-brewing region, seeing the traditions and craftsmanship that have defined this iconic Japanese beverage. From guided tours of historic breweries to savoring the region’s unique culinary delights, this experience offers a captivating window into Hiroshima’s rich sake heritage. Discover why this destination is a must-visit for any sake enthusiast or cultural explorer.

Key Points

• Hiroshima is recognized as the birthplace of Ginjo sake, a premium rice wine characterized by delicate, complex flavors and aromas.
• The tour offers an immersive experience to explore Hiroshima’s sake culture, including visits to historic breweries and sake tasting.
• The tour includes a scenic taxi drive to Saijo, the renowned sake brewing region, and a traditional Bishu-nabe lunch.
• Participants can collect sake seals from each brewery visited, enhancing their appreciation for the local craftsmanship.
• Seamless transportation is provided, including Shinkansen and taxi transfers, with a hassle-free booking process and cancellation policy.

The Birthplace of Ginjo Sake

Hiroshima is known as the birthplace of Ginjo sake, a premium grade of Japanese rice wine. This style of sake is characterized by its delicate, complex flavors and aromas.

The region’s unique climate and traditional brewing methods have made Hiroshima a renowned center for Ginjo production. The local brewers meticulously select the finest rice and use specialized techniques like slow, low-temperature fermentation to create these exceptional sakes.

Hiroshima’s vibrant sake culture attracts visitors from around the world who come to learn about and savor the distinct flavors of this celebrated regional specialty.

An Immersive Sake Experience

Visitors can enjoy Hiroshima’s rich sake heritage on this guided tour. Explore the birthplace of Ginjo sake, a premium style celebrated for its delicate aroma and smooth flavor. The tour transports guests from Hiroshima Station to the renowned sake brewing region of Saijo, where they’ll tour historic breweries, learn about the production process, and sample a variety of premium sakes. Guests will also enjoy a traditional Bishu-nabe lunch and receive a sake seal book to commemorate their experience.

Highlights	Details
Sake Brewery Tours	Explore historic Saijo breweries
Sake Tasting	Sample a variety of premium Ginjo sakes
Traditional Lunch	Enjoy a France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch
Souvenirs	Receive a sake seal book and labels
Local Guide	Knowledgeable English-speaking interpreter

Exploring Akitsu and Saijo

The tour begins with a journey from Hiroshima Station to the nearby town of Akitsu, where guests board a taxi for the scenic drive to Saijo, the renowned sake brewing region.

In Saijo, visitors explore Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, receiving a special shrine stamp.

Next, they embark on a sake-tasting tour, visiting several local breweries to learn about the intricate Ginjo sake-making process.

Lunch is served at the traditional Furance-yas Bishu-nabe restaurant, offering a unique culinary experience.

The tour concludes with a train ride back to Hiroshima, providing travelers with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s rich sake heritage.

Shrine Visits and Sake Seals

After exploring the sake breweries in Saijo, the tour now shifts its focus to the cultural and historical aspects of the region.

The group visits the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, where they receive a special stamp for their sake seal book. This ritual connects them to the long history of sake production in the area.

As they collect sake labels from each brewery, the guide explains the significance of these seals and how they showcase the artistry and craftsmanship of the local brewers.

This holistic experience provides a deeper appreciation for the traditions that have shaped Hiroshima’s renowned Ginjo sake.

Savoring the France-yas Bishu-nabe Lunch

What delights await the group as they savor the France-yas Bishu-nabe lunch in Saijo? This traditional hot pot dish is a culinary highlight of the tour.

The group will:

• Enjoy a medley of seasonal vegetables, tofu, and premium cuts of meat simmered in a savory broth.
• Discover the unique blend of flavors that make this dish a local specialty.
• Appreciate the communal dining experience, sharing the steaming pot and bonding over the shared meal.
• Relish the warmth and comforting atmosphere of the traditional Japanese restaurant.
• Gain insights into the regional cuisine and culture from the knowledgeable local guide.

Guided Tour and Local Insights

As the group embarks on the guided tour, they’ll discover the rich history and local insights that make Hiroshima the birthplace of the renowned Ginjo sake.

An English-speaking local guide leads the way, sharing stories about the region’s centuries-old sake brewing traditions.

The tour visits the Sakakiyama Hachiman Shrine, where participants receive a special shrine stamp.

Next, they explore the sake breweries of Saijo, sampling the distinct Ginjo varieties and learning about the meticulous production processes.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes seamless transportation to provide a hassle-free experience.

Guests are whisked from Hiroshima Station to Akitsu via Shinkansen and taxi, then on to Saijo by taxi. The return trip takes the JR train back to Hiroshima Station.

Means of transportation to the meeting point are also provided.

The tour includes:

• Shinkansen and taxi transfers between locations
• JR train for the return journey
• Convenient transportation to the starting point
• Guided logistics for a smooth experience
• Worry-free transportation throughout the day

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Guests receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Guests can cancel their reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour start time (local time).

The tour has a lowest price guarantee, and guests can reserve their spot now and pay later for added flexibility.

Prices start at $229.63 per person, varying by group size.

With a practical, straightforward booking and cancellation policy, guests can plan their Hiroshima sake experience with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour includes lunch, so bringing your own food and drinks is not necessary. However, you can bring snacks or water if you wish, as long as they don’t disrupt the group experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Experience?

The tour has a casual dress code. Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes. No formal attire is required. Guests are free to dress as they normally would for a day of sightseeing and activities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating in the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for participating in the tour. The tour is open to all ages, though minors must be accompanied by an adult. Participants can enjoy the sake tasting experience regardless of their age.

Is There an Option to Join the Tour as a Solo Traveler?

Yes, the tour can be booked by solo travelers. The experience is designed for group participation, so solo travelers are welcome to join the tour. Prices may vary based on the total group size.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities of the Tour?

The tour is a private group experience, so the itinerary and activities can’t be customized. However, you can contact the tour provider to discuss any special requests or needs you may have within the existing tour structure.

The Sum Up

Hiroshima’s Saijo district offers an immersive sake experience. Visitors can explore historic breweries, sample delicate Ginjo sake, and deepen their appreciation for the region’s rich sake culture. The tour includes a traditional Bishu-nabe lunch, shrine visits, and the opportunity to collect unique sake seals and labels. This guided experience provides an authentic taste of Hiroshima’s artisanal sake heritage.