Shiga Nagahama: Funasushi Origin of Sushi Pared With Sake

Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Biwa, the quaint town of Shiga Nagahama reveals a culinary treasure that has captivated foodies for centuries. Here, the origins of sushi can be traced back to the ancient art of Funasushi, a unique fermented delicacy that tantalizes the palate with its complex sour flavors. But the experience doesn’t end there – pair this delightful dish with the floral notes of local Shichihonyari sake, and you’ll set off on a harmonious tasting adventure that truly encapsulates the rich gastronomic heritage of this remarkable region.

Good To Know

• Funasushi is a fermented culinary treasure from Shiga Nagahama, Japan, with roots dating back to ancient times, featuring a pungent aroma and complex sour flavors.
• The Funasushi experience offers an intimate exploration of its origins, with a tasting of three distinct types paired with local Shichihonyari sake.
• Shiga Nagahama is known for its historical significance in the origins of sushi and is easily accessible from Kyoto and Osaka.
• The Funasushi experience is hosted in a private Machiya bar, providing a personalized and immersive encounter with Japan’s culinary heritage.
• The Funasushi and sake pairing creates a harmonious gastronomic journey, showcasing the region’s thoughtful consideration of traditional Japanese culinary traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

Setting out on an enchanting journey, visitors begin a 45-minute exploration of the Funasushi origin of sushi in Japan.

Immersed in the intimate ambiance of a private Machiya bar, a small group of no more than 6 set off on this cultural experience.

Whether fluent in Japanese or English, guests are invited to discover the fascinating history and traditions behind this fermented delicacy.

Nestled in the charming city of Nagahama, this off-the-beaten-path adventure offers a rare glimpse into the roots of sushi, promising an unforgettable encounter with Japan’s culinary heritage.

Culinary Highlights

At the heart of this enchanting experience lies the opportunity to savor the remarkable flavors of Funasushi, a fermented delicacy that has been cherished in the Shiga region for generations.

Participants will begin a culinary journey, tasting three distinct types of Funasushi, each with its own fascinating sour profile.

To complement these umami-rich bites, guests will delight in three specially selected local Sake varieties, expertly curated by the Kuramoto, or Sake brewer.

This harmonious pairing allows the complex layers of flavors to truly shine, offering a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience for those who relish cheese, umeboshi, raw fish, Sake, and fermented delights.

Funasushi: A Fermented Delight

Beneath the rustling leaves of ancient trees, the unassuming city of Shiga Nagahama harbors a remarkable culinary treasure – Funasushi.

This fermented delight, dating back to ancient times, beckons the adventurous palate. As the pungent aroma wafts through the air, one can’t help but be intrigued.

The funky, sour notes of Funasushi dance on the tongue, a delicate balance of flavors that challenges and delights. Paired with the region’s renowned Shichihonyari sake, the experience becomes a symphony of taste, where tradition and modernity converge.

For the curious and the discerning, Funasushi offers a glimpse into Shiga Nagahama’s rich gastronomic heritage, a true celebration of Japan’s culinary wonders.

Pairing Funasushi With Sake

The Funasushi experience in Shiga Nagahama truly comes alive when coupled with the region’s renowned Shichihonyari sake.

This carefully curated pairing allows the complex, sour notes of the fermented Funasushi to mingle harmoniously with the crisp, slightly effervescent sake.

As the bold, umami-rich Funasushi dances across the palate, the sake’s delicate floral and citrus undertones provide a revitalizing counterpoint, cleansing the mouth and preparing it for the next delightful bite.

This symbiotic relationship between the local delicacy and the artisanal brew is a demonstration of the region’s culinary traditions, where every element is thoughtfully considered to create a truly memorable gastronomic journey.

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Accessibility and Location

Conveniently located, the Funasushi experience in Shiga Nagahama beckons visitors from Kyoto and Osaka with its easy accessibility. Just a 34-minute ride on the JR line from Kyoto and a 1-hour journey from Osaka, the charming city welcomes guests to its cozy, lively atmosphere.

The experience’s accessibility is further enhanced by:

1. Convenience – The private Machiya Bar venue is easily reached, with clear directions provided.

2. Lack of crowds – Shiga Nagahama is described as a non-crowded destination, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.

3. Compact layout – The city’s compact size makes it easy to navigate and explore, complementing the Funasushi tasting.

Together, the location and accessibility of this unique culinary adventure create an inviting opportunity to take in the rich heritage of Shiga Nagahama’s Funasushi tradition.

Booking and Cancellation

Prospective visitors can book the Funasushi experience with ease, as the organizers offer a flexible reservation system.

Simply reserve your spot and pay later, with no upfront payment required. This "reserve now, pay later" approach allows guests to secure their place without the financial commitment.

Should plans change, the organizers provide free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a full refund. This hassle-free booking process caters to spontaneous travelers or those with fluctuating schedules.

With just a few clicks, guests can enjoy the unique flavors of Funasushi, complemented by expertly-curated local sake, in the cozy atmosphere of the Machiya Bar.

Restrictions and Important Information

Individuals with certain health conditions or mobility restrictions may need to reconsider participating in the Funasushi experience.

The strong sour taste and fermented nature of Funasushi may not be suitable for some, including pregnant women, those with heart problems, or individuals managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

Plus, the experience isn’t recommended for vegans, as Funasushi is a local preserved food made with fish.

To guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience, the following items are prohibited:

1. Smoking
2. Pets (except assistance dogs)
3. Alcohol, drugs, and baby carriages

Discover Shiga Nagahama

Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Biwa, the historic city of Shiga Nagahama beckons visitors to uncover its ancient culinary treasures. This charming locale, renowned for its origins of sushi, offers a captivating journey through time. Enjoy the cozy ambiance of a private Machiya bar, where you’ll savor the rich flavors of Funasushi, a fermented delicacy from the region. Paired with carefully curated local sake, this experience promises to delight the senses and transport you to the heart of traditional Japanese gastronomy. Discover the hidden gems of Shiga Nagahama and embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the timeless traditions of Japan.

Enchanting Atmosphere	Authentic Flavors	Immersive Experience
Cozy Machiya bar	Funasushi – fermented delicacy	Pair with local sake
Serene shores of Lake Biwa	Flavors of Shiga Nagahama	Celebrate traditions
Historic city	Captivating journey	Transport to the past
Charming locale	Rich, delightful tastes	Delight the senses
Ancient culinary treasures	Timeless traditions	Uncover hidden gems

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks?

No, bringing your own food or drinks is not allowed. The experience is designed to showcase the unique flavors of Funasushi and locally sourced sake, curated by the Kuramoto. Participants must fully engage with the provided culinary offerings for the full experience.

Is There a Dress Code for the Experience?

There’s no formal dress code, but participants are encouraged to dress comfortably and casually. The intimate setting creates a relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to focus on the authentic Funasushi experience without unnecessary formality.

How Much Time Do I Need to Allocate for the Experience?

The Funasushi experience lasts 45 minutes, so guests should allocate about an hour to fully enjoy the tasting and enjoy the cozy, private Machiya Bar setting.

Can I Purchase Additional Funasushi or Sake to Take Home?

Guests can purchase additional Funasushi or sake to take home, allowing them to savor the unique flavors long after the experience. The knowledgeable staff can provide guidance on the best options to complement the tasting.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for the Experience?

The experience doesn’t offer any discounts or promotions, but you can purchase additional Funasushi or sake to take home at the end of the session. The cost per person starts from ¥777.

The Sum Up

Savor the enchanting harmony of Funasushi and Shichihonyari sake, a culinary journey that transports you to the heart of Shiga Nagahama’s rich gastronomic legacy. Indulge in the complex, sour flavors of this ancient fermented delight, expertly paired with the floral notes of the local sake – a sensory experience that truly encapsulates the essence of this remarkable region.

You can check if your dates are available here: