Savvy travelers will find three standout drinking experiences in Ibaraki Prefecture, just north of Tokyo. The region’s traditional sake breweries offer intimate tours where you can watch master brewers at work and sample freshly pressed rice wine. My favorite stop is the 140-year-old Kiuchi Brewery, where the production process hasn’t changed in generations. The century-old Yamasa Soy Sauce factory delivers a fascinating look at fermentation traditions, while the Plum Wine Museum provides both historical context and generous tastings of Japan’s beloved umeshu (plum wine). These tours run 2-3 hours and cost between ¥2,000-4,000 ($15-30), making them an excellent value. Let’s explore the top drinking tours worth your time in Ibaraki.
Key Points
- Ibaraki Prefecture offers a variety of private sake brewery and alcohol tasting tours, catering to adults aged 20 and above.
- Tours provide insights into traditional sake and soy sauce production processes, with opportunities for premium tastings.
- Experiences are wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, with free cancellation policies up to 24 hours in advance.
- Tour durations range from several hours to a full day, with some including lunch or refreshments.
- The Plum Wine Sake Museum and Shinran Temple tours provide cultural experiences in addition to the alcohol tastings.
Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour in Ibaraki
This private walking and wine tasting sake brewery tour in Ibaraki offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage and artistry of Japanese sake production.
Located in Ibaraki Prefecture, the tour takes guests to the Yoshikubo Sake Brewery, where they can go on a guided walking tour and enjoy a tasting of the brewery’s premium sake offerings.
The tour is private, ensuring that only your group will participate, and it’s easily accessible, with the meeting point just a short taxi ride from Mito Station.
During the experience, guests will learn about the history and production process of sake, as well as have the chance to sample a variety of the brewery’s finest creations.
The tour is open to adults aged 20 and above, and it includes the cost of the alcoholic beverages.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the tour and a lowest price guarantee, this sake brewery experience is an excellent way to take in the vibrant culture of Ibaraki Prefecture.
Read our full review: Private Walking and Wine Tasting Sake Brewery Tour in Ibaraki Review
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Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki
For those seeking a deeper dive into the rich culinary heritage of Ibaraki Prefecture, the private soy sauce brewery tour at a century-old factory offers a captivating experience.
Over the course of the tour, you will witness the time-honored process of soy sauce production, gaining insight into the traditions that have sustained this artisanal craft for generations.
The tour begins at 11:00 am at the meeting point of 1260 Mawatari, Hitachinaka, Ibaraki 312-0012, where visitors can look for the signs 黒澤醤油店 and 醤油醸造元 in Kanji.
The experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and conveniently located near public transportation.
Lunch is included, and the tour ends back at the original meeting point.
With a duration of several hours, this private tour is open to most travelers and offers a guaranteed lowest price.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for those who book.
Read our full review: Private Soy Sauce Brewery Tour at Century Old Factory in Ibaraki Review
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Explore Plum Wine Sake Museum and Japanese Alcohol Tasting
The Plum Wine Sake Museum in Ibaraki Prefecture invites visitors on a captivating journey through the world of Japanese alcoholic beverages.
This activity allows adults aged 20 and above to embark on an alcohol tasting experience, with a maximum of 20 travelers per session. Operated by Meiri Shurui, the tour takes place in Ibaraki and includes a 15-minute walk from Mito Station to the meeting point near the Mito Komon statue.
Priced from SEK 447.54 per person, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and not recommended for pregnant travelers, most participants can join. The tour includes a basic English-speaking guide and transportation fees to and from the meeting place, with nearby public transportation options available.
Read our full review: Explore Plum Wine Sake Museum and Japanese Alcohol Tasting Review
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Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit
Travelers can explore the art of traditional Japanese sake brewing with a private tour of a local brewery in Ibaraki Prefecture. The tour includes a visit to the Shinran Temple, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.
Starting and ending at Inada Station, the tour lasts several hours, with the exact duration dependent on the local provider.
The brewery tour offers an insider’s look at the meticulous sake-making process. Visitors will learn about the history and techniques used to craft this iconic Japanese beverage. Complimentary bottled water is provided throughout the experience.
This private tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions due to the moderate physical fitness level required.
The tour is available Thursday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Alcoholic beverages will only be offered to those 20 years of age or older.
Prices start at $27.25 per person, ensuring a budget-friendly exploration of Ibaraki’s sake culture.
Read our full review: Private Sake Brewery Tour and Shinran Temple Visit Review
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Common Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tours?
The minimum group size for these tours is usually between 2 to 4 people. Many tour operators offer private tours for smaller groups or individual travelers as well. The exact group size may vary depending on the specific tour and operator.
Are the Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tours generally accommodate visitors with disabilities, though it’s best to inquire about specific accessibility details when booking. Most providers strive to ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?
Many tour operators offer flexible and customizable itineraries, allowing guests to tailor the experience to their preferences. This can include adjusting the pace, choosing specific stops, or focusing on particular interests. Discussing your needs with the tour provider is recommended.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Venues?
Yes, most drinking tours include transportation to and from the venues. This ensures guests can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about driving. The tour operators typically provide pick-up and drop-off services for a convenient and hassle-free excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Alcohol Tastings?
Most drinking tours have age restrictions, typically requiring participants to be at least 20 years old. The legal drinking age in Japan is 20, so this is a common requirement for alcohol tastings on such tours.
The Sum Up
Ibaraki Prefecture offers a range of immersive drinking tours. Visitors can explore sake, soy sauce, and plum wine production at century-old facilities. Tours provide hands-on experiences and tastings, allowing travelers to deepen their appreciation for Japanese alcoholic beverages. With private options available, these tours offer personalized experiences for those seeking an authentic glimpse into Ibaraki’s rich drinking culture.