[Japan Wellness] Goma Fire Ritual and Sake Brewery in Hiroshima

In the heart of Hiroshima, an ancient ritual and a renowned sake brewery converge, offering a unique wellness experience. The Goma Fire Ritual, with its captivating chants and drumming, invites participants to purify their spirits and make heartfelt wishes. Just steps away, the historic Saijo Sake Brewery beckons, where visitors can uncover the secrets of premium sake production and indulge in tastings. This harmonious blend of cultural tradition and sensory delight promises to transport you on a journey of inner peace and enlightenment.

Good To Know

• Explore the spiritual and purifying Goma Fire Ritual, involving chanting, drumming, and burning of wooden sticks, for a sense of inner peace.
• Discover the 300-year-old Saijo Sake Brewery, learn about the traditional brewing process, and sample premium sake varieties in a renovated Japanese house.
• Indulge in a sake-infused hot pot dish, which infuses the broth with a rich, umami flavor and features tender vegetables, protein, and Hiroshima’s premium sake.
• Tour the historical Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, including the iconic A-Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, to learn about the city’s past.
• Travel by private transportation and train, with a meeting point at Hiroshima Station and a Tranquwell representative to guide you throughout the experience.

Exploring Hiroshima

What’s there to explore in Hiroshima, a city that has endured immense tragedy yet emerged as a symbol of resilience and peace?

Beyond the somber reminders of the past, this vibrant city offers a multitude of experiences. Visitors can stroll through the peaceful Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visit the iconic A-Bomb Dome, and learn about the city’s history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum.

The city also boasts stunning architecture, from the historic Hiroshima Castle to the modern Orizuru Tower.

With its rich cultural heritage, delectable cuisine, and friendly locals, Hiroshima captivates all who venture there.

The Goma Fire Ritual

Although deeply rooted in the spiritual traditions of Japan, the Goma Fire Ritual offers a captivating experience for visitors to Hiroshima.

Held at a tranquil temple, the ritual involves chanting, drumming, and the burning of wooden "goma" sticks. Participants can make wishes as the flames engulf the sticks, representing the purification of the mind and body.

The sensory experience of the crackling fire, rhythmic beats, and mystical atmosphere creates a profound sense of connection to Japan’s timeless spiritual practices.

Onlookers are invited to witness this ancient ceremony and take home a sense of inner peace.

Discovering Saijo Sake Brewery

After the profound experience of the Goma Fire Ritual, the tour continues to the historic Saijo Sake Brewery.

Nestled in the foothills of Hiroshima, this renowned brewery has been crafting premium sake for over 300 years.

Visitors tour the facilities, learning about the meticulous brewing process and sampling the brewery’s signature varieties.

The tour culminates in a tasting session at a renovated traditional Japanese house, where guests can savor the rich, complex flavors of Saijo’s finest sakes.

This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into Japan’s revered sake culture and the art of traditional brewing.

Lunch: A Sake-Infused Hot Pot

Following the visit to the Saijo Sake Brewery, participants enjoy a warm and nourishing lunch showcasing the versatility of the region’s renowned sake. The hot pot dish is made with sake instead of water, infusing the broth with a rich, umami flavor. As they savor each bite, diners delight in the harmonious blend of tender vegetables, protein, and the signature taste of Hiroshima’s premium sake. The cozy, traditional setting of the renovated Japanese house further enhances the authentic culinary experience.

Savoring the Sake Experience

What better way to take in Hiroshima’s vibrant sake culture than by visiting a renowned brewery and participating in a captivating Goma Fire Ritual?

At the local sake brewery, travelers will learn about the region’s centuries-old brewing traditions and techniques. They’ll sample a variety of premium sakes, each with its own unique aroma and flavor profile.

The highlight, however, is the Goma Fire Ritual. Participants will witness the mesmerizing ceremony of chanting and burning sacred wood, believed to purify the mind and body.

This authentic experience offers a deep connection to Japan’s rich cultural heritage.

Visiting a Traditional Japanese Cafe

What better way to cap off the sake brewery visit than by relaxing in a quaint, renovated traditional Japanese house cafe?

Tucked away in historic Saijo, the cafe offers a tranquil respite from the day’s activities. Sip on a hot cup of coffee or fragrant tea served in delicate ceramic cups as you admire the rustic wooden beams and paper screens that evoke a bygone era.

This cozy setting provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the cultural insights gained from the Goma Fire Ritual and sake tasting.

It’s a serene conclusion to an enlightening Japanese experience.

Transportation and Meeting Details

The meeting point for this tour is Hiroshima Station, located at 1-2-37 Matsubarachō, Minami Ward, Hiroshima.

A Tranquwell representative will greet you at the Pedestrian Deck, Shinkansen Exit 2nd Floor. From there, you’ll travel by private transportation and train to Saijo Station.

The tour ends back at the original meeting point in Hiroshima Station. The transportation and travel time are all included in the tour price.

Be sure to allow extra time in case of any delays due to traffic or other unforeseen circumstances.

Important Considerations

Confirmation for this tour is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

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

Travelers should allow extra time for potential delays due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.

The cancellation policy is non-refundable, so there are no refunds for cancellations.

Key considerations:

1. Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible; near public transportation.
2. Schedule: Allow extra time for potential delays.
3. Cancellation: Non-refundable policy – no refunds.
4. Confirmation: Received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Vegetarians or Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour seems to cater to vegetarians, as it includes a healthy hot pot made with sake instead of water. However, those with other dietary restrictions should check with the tour provider to confirm if their needs can be accommodated.

Can We Purchase Additional Bottles of Sake at the Brewery?

Yes, you can purchase additional bottles of sake at the brewery. The tour includes a glass of sake, but visitors are welcome to buy extra bottles to take home as souvenirs or gifts.

What Is the Dress Code for the Goma Fire Ritual?

The dress code for the Goma Fire Ritual is casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear loose, breathable clothing that allows for easy movement, as the ritual involves some physical activity. No formal attire is required.

Can We Extend Our Stay in Hiroshima After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Hiroshima after the tour. The tour ends at the meeting point, so you’re free to explore Hiroshima further on your own or make any additional arrangements as needed. The choice is yours to extend your time in the city.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Participants?

The tour doesn’t mention any age restrictions. So it’s likely open to participants of all ages, as long as they can actively participate in the activities. The tour provider would be the best source for confirming any specific age requirements.

The Sum Up

This excursion offers a captivating blend of cultural traditions and the art of premium sake making. Participants can enjoy the Goma Fire Ritual‘s sensory experience, then explore the historic Saijo Brewery to learn about and savor Japan’s renowned sake. This harmonious journey provides a unique opportunity to connect with Hiroshima’s enduring heritage and indulge in the region’s renowned culinary delights.