Planning a trip to Kyoto and want a memorable, authentic activity that goes beyond the usual sightseeing? This Ume Liqueur Experience with CHOYA offers a unique chance to craft your own bottle of Japanese plum wine or syrup, perfect as a personalized keepsake or gift. It’s a fun, educational, and tasty way to connect with Kyoto’s centuries-old ume culture.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the hands-on workshop is small and personalized, ensuring you get expert guidance. Second, the variety of tastes—from different types of umeshu and syrups—means you can really find your favorite flavor. Lastly, the compact duration of just an hour makes it ideal for travelers with tight schedules.
One thing to consider: participants must be 20 or older if they want to make the alcoholic umeshu, so it’s not suitable for young travelers. This experience is best suited for curious food lovers, those interested in Japanese traditions, or anyone wanting a meaningful souvenir with a story behind it.
Good To Know
- Authentic Cultural Insight: Learn about over a thousand years of ume and umeshu history from experts.
- Personalized Creation: Pick your favorite flavors from over 100 combinations for your bottle.
- Tastings Included: Sample various ume syrups and wines to inform your choice.
- Convenient & Quick: A one-hour activity, perfect for fitting into a busy Kyoto itinerary.
- Souvenir-Ready: Your crafted bottle is sealed and travel-friendly, making it a perfect gift or keepsake.
- Inclusive for Younger Guests: Those under 20 can still join to make and take home ume syrup.
An In-Depth Look at the Kyoto Ume Liqueur Experience
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If you’re visiting Kyoto and want more than just sightseeing, this workshop offers a delightful mix of culture, taste, and hands-on fun. Conducted by CHOYA, the world’s top producer of umeshu, the experience promises not just a lesson but a chance to create a meaningful, personalized drink to take home.
What’s the Format?
The activity lasts about an hour and takes place at a central location in Nakagyo Ward. You’ll meet your guide, an English-speaking Ume Concierge from CHOYA, at 87 Nakajimach. The guide is well-versed in the tradition and history of ume, making the experience both educational and engaging. The small group size (up to 10 people) ensures that you’ll receive individual attention, making your experience more interactive and tailored.
The Learning Part
Your guide will walk you through the heritage of ume and umeshu, explaining how this traditional Japanese fruit has been cultivated and enjoyed for centuries. You’ll taste different types of ume and sugars, discovering which flavor combinations suit your palate. The different syrups and wines you sample are meant to help you decide your perfect blend—whether you prefer a more sweet, tangy, or balanced flavor.
Making Your Own Umeshu or Syrup
Once you’ve settled on your favorites, it’s time to create your own bottle. You’ll choose from over 100 possible combinations, and your guide will assist in mixing your custom blend using CHOYA’s special kit. The process is straightforward: combine your chosen ingredients, pour into a sealed bottle, and secure it with a leak-proof cap. The entire setup is packed in a durable box, ready to travel home with you.
Tips from Reviewers and What to Expect
According to a reviewer, Sam_B, the experience is “lots of fun” and “very good English speakers so no barrier”. They also appreciated the opportunity to sample various types of umeshu, which helped them decide on their preferred flavor. The guide’s detailed explanations and friendly approach made the workshop accessible even for those unfamiliar with Japanese beverages.
Another aspect that gets high praise is the quality of the tasting. Guests can explore the depths of the different ume syrups and wines, which helps you make a more informed choice. Many mention the excellent selection of flavors—you might find yourself surprised by how complex and delightful Japanese plum wines can be.
Practical Details to Know
The workshop is air-travel friendly—your bottled creation is sealed and packed to prevent leaks. You can purchase additional bottles on-site if you want to make more or gift extras to friends. It’s important to note that late arrivals may not be able to participate fully, as the session starts promptly with other guests. Also, the experience is not available for those under 20 if they want to make umeshu, but they can still join to make ume syrup.
The cost is approximately $32.37 per person, which includes tastings, instruction, and your custom bottle. Considering the quality of the experience, the personalized keepsake, and the cultural insight, this is a good value—especially for those wanting an authentic, memorable souvenir that isn’t just a touristy trinket.
Why This Experience Works Well
This workshop suits travelers who enjoy interactive activities, are curious about Japanese tradition, or want a unique gift to take home. The short duration makes it perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing day, and the small group format enhances the quality of interaction.
On top of that, the educational component is meaningful; you’re not just making something but also learning about the significance of ume in Japanese culture. The tasting experience adds a sensory layer that elevates this from a simple craft workshop to a genuine culture.
Who Should Book This?
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- Food and beverage enthusiasts eager to learn about traditional Japanese drinks.
- Travelers seeking a personalized souvenir with a story behind it.
- Those with limited time but want an authentic, engaging activity.
- Families (with participants over 20) wanting a fun, inclusive experience.
- Guests who enjoy tasting different flavors before creating their own.
The Sum Up
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This Kyoto Ume Liqueur Experience with CHOYA offers a perfect blend of tradition, taste, and personal touch. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to understand Japanese ume culture firsthand, create a custom drink, or find a meaningful souvenir. The expert guidance, quality tasting, and limited group size make it a memorable, authentic activity that pairs well with sightseeing or a relaxed afternoon in Kyoto.
While the activity is short, the knowledge and skills you’ll gain are substantial—plus, you get to take home a handcrafted bottle that truly reflects your preferences. Whether you’re a foodie, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for a fun hands-on experience, this workshop delivers value in a friendly, accessible format.
FAQ
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Is this experience suitable for children?
Children aged 19 and under are welcome to join, but only to make and take home ume syrup, as umeshu contains alcohol and is restricted to those over 20.
How long does the workshop last?
The entire experience takes approximately one hour, making it a quick yet enriching addition to your Kyoto itinerary.
Can I buy additional bottles during the workshop?
Yes, you can purchase extra bottles or more of your created product on-site, which is great for gifts or souvenirs.
What should I expect at the start of the workshop?
You’ll meet your guide, learn about the history of ume and umeshu, and sample various types of ume syrup and wine to help decide your blend.
Is transportation provided?
No, the meeting point is in central Kyoto near public transportation. You’re responsible for getting there, but the location is accessible.
What if I arrive late?
Arrivals are expected to be on time since the session starts promptly. If you’re late, you should contact the store, but participation in all parts of the workshop may not be guaranteed.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and the experience is weather-dependent.
This experience is a delightful way to add a personal touch to your Kyoto visit. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or just looking for a fun activity, making your own umeshu with CHOYA is a memorable step into Japan’s centuries-old tradition.