Saijo Sake Brewery Tour in Higashihiroshima (2.5 Hours)
Step into the heart of Japan’s sake culture in Saijo, a charming town just 35 minutes from Hiroshima by JR train. Stroll along the historic Sake Brewery Street (Sakagura-dori), lined with traditional white-walled storehouses and towering red brick chimneys.
Let me take you to this picturesque district, where you’ll learn how sake is made and enjoy tastings at seven different breweries.
This tour offers a truly authentic and unforgettable experience—all easily accessible from Hiroshima.
Itinerary
This itinerary can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Send me a message with your requests!
Meeting Point
JR Saijo Station
- (at the exit of the ticket gates)
Kamotsuru
Pioneer in Ginjo Sake brewery
-multilingual panels and video
-premium sake tasting
Fukubijin
The Former "Saijo Brewing School"-turning out many master brewers
-sake tasting and more-to-see
Kamoizumi
Famous for their Junmai-shu(sake) brewery
-sake tasting
-Shusenkan (the former Hiroshima Prefectural Saijo Seishu Jozo Shijo: sake brewing branch)
Kirei
The driest sake among Hiroshima's typically sweet selections
-sake tasting
Saijotsuru
Gold Quality label has been repeatedly awarded by Monde Selection
-sake tasting
Hakubotan
One of the oldest sake breweries in Hiroshima
-video gallery
-Munakata Shiko's woodblock prints
-sake tasting
Sanyotsuru
Japanese sake and calligrapy
-sake tasting
-there is a restaurant behind the store
Ending Point
Saijo Station
Want to personalize this tour?
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/59899/37a6a5fe-51a5-423e-825a-4a763fc7c0dc.png)
This tour can be customized to meet your needs and preferences. Click below to send me a message with your requests.
Inclusions & Exclusions
-Guiding fee
-Guide's transportation from home to the meet-up place and backward
-Sake tasking fees: please pay for what you drink
Tour Important Information
* Kindly note that sake tastings may occasionally be unavailable due to the breweries' circumstances.
* Alcohols are allowed here over 20 years old.
Before booking this tour, please let me know your preferred travel date so I can check with the breweries to confirm availability.
Important message from the supplier
Weekdays are basically available.
Weekends are also available upon request, though, family matters are prioritized.
Cancellation Policy
- Free cancellation - 8 days prior to meeting time
- 50% Refund - 3 to 7 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 2 day(s) prior to meeting time
About Tour Guide Keiko K.
Hello, welcome to my profile! I'm Keiko (Kay). As a national certified guide deeply passionate about the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of this area, I am eager to share these experiences with you. With over 16 years of experience living abroad, mostly in Europe, I've had the privilege of immersing myself in diverse cultures and meeting incredible people from around the world. I'm sociable, outgoing and love making new connections wherever I go.
I'm also very active, enjoying sports like badminton, biking, jogging, and dancing, especially zumba and salsa. On top of that, I've been playing the piano for over *xx years, a passion that brings balance to my life. (The reason XX is simply because I hesitate to disclose my age...)
Health and nutrition are important to me, as is the same to everyone, and I love exploring new ways to stay healthy and enjoy good food!
Our itinerary will take us through some of the most iconic landmarks, as well as a few hidden gems that only locals know about. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient architecture, indulging in the local cuisine, or learning about the fascinating history that has shaped this place, I am here to tailor the tour to your interests.
Would I be a good fit for your company here in Hiroshima?
Warm regards,
Keiko(Kay)
Reviews
Jose B.
“A great history lesson and exploration of Hiroshima’s Best Landmarks”
Keiko was extremely knowledgable of everything related to the area. She even highlighted lesser known information that even locals typically do not know. The tour itself was a very thorough exploration of Hiroshima Highlight landmarks that are a must see. Keiko was also very flexible and kind. I recommend Keiko’s tour to anybody looking for a tour of Hiroshima’s rich history.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/59899/37a6a5fe-51a5-423e-825a-4a763fc7c0dc.png)
Keiko K.
Thank you very much for your warm review. The time I spent with your intelligent and kind-hearted son was truly meaningful for me as well. I will never forget the gentle tears he showed at the Peace Memorial Museum. Thank you for empathizing so deeply with the feelings of the people of Hiroshima. Thank you so much!! Kind regards, Keiko (Kay)
Debbie K.
“UNESCO World Heritage Tour in Hiroshima ”
Keiko is the consummate tour guide, looking after your every need while under her care. From getting picked up on the platform, as we exited our Shinkansen train to finally getting us back to our train station at the end of our day. As I said, our tour started with Keiko picking us up on the train platform as we exited our Shinkansen train from Kyoto. Before we even got to Hiroshima, Keiko had been in contact with us to help us book our train from Kyoto and discuss our itinerary So off we went to our first stop, the UNESCO World Heritage Site on Miyajima Island, a subway ride followed by a Ferry ride. Keiko briefed us on history of the sites we would see on the island as we travelled there. Once on the island, she provided a very thorough and detailed history of the various shrines and temples as we walked among them. We were very impressed with Keiko’s knowledge of the subject matter and the passion with which she shared it. After we completed this part of the tour, we stopped for lunch, the best seats in the restaurant were waiting for us. We got all the info on, Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki, as our lunch was prepared right in front of us. It was delicious, we preferred it to the Osaka style we had tried a few days earlier. Then we were off to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. We were very moved by Keiko’s presentation of the consequences of the dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. We discussed numerous aspects of what happened on that day and the days, weeks, months and years after. Despite these discussions, we were overwhelmed by the visit to the Museum which painted a much more complete and shocking picture. After that very somber experience, Keiko returned us to the train station. She made sure we knew where to catch our train and gave us a detailed rundown of the dining scene at the Hiroshima train station. Keiko was the most interesting and knowledgeable guide we have ever had and she made sure we completely looked after.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/59899/37a6a5fe-51a5-423e-825a-4a763fc7c0dc.png)
Keiko K.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and detailed review. I sincerely appreciate it, especially after your long journey home. Meeting both of you was truly a pleasure for me as well. You will remain very memorable guests from Canada. I was especially grateful for how sincerely you listened to the explanations about shrines and temples, and it was a rare and valuable experience for me as a guide to have such open and enjoyable conversations about history with your husband, who has an impressively deep knowledge of the subject. I hope you will find another opportunity to visit Hiroshima — and Japan — again someday. Beyond the famous Golden Route, there is still so much beautiful nature and many hidden places to discover. I will be looking forward to welcoming you back someday! Hugs, Kay (Keiko)
Vijey S.
“Amazing time in Miyajima ”
We had a fantastic time in Miyajima with our energetic guide, Keiko. She was very well informed and we covered a very busy itinerary. We also managed to climb Mount Misen. Thank you Keiko for making it a truely wonderful experience.
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/59899/37a6a5fe-51a5-423e-825a-4a763fc7c0dc.png)
Keiko K.
Both of you must have been very busy, returning to work right after coming back from Japan. I truly appreciate you taking the time to write a kind review. Climbing all the way to the top of Mt. Misen and having such an open and honest exchange of views at the Peace Memorial Park are wonderful memories for me. Your great intelligence and insight inspired me a lot. Warm regards, Keiko(Kay)
$126/ per group
More tours by Keiko K.
Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)
Hiroshima is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As you explore, don't miss these must-see sites that capture the spirit of the city. This tour includes Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome, Shukkeien (a stunning Japanese garden), and Hiroshima Castle known as "Carp Castle". These sites are a glimpse of what Hiroshima has to offer. The tour is flexible, allowing you to tailor the experience by adding destinations that capture your interest.
Hiroshima City Tour Highlights (4.5 Hours)
Miyajima Full-Day Tour
Discover the beauty and culture of Miyajima island on a full-day tour. Explore the iconic Itsukushima Shrine with its famous floating Torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through peaceful forests to the Daisho-in Temple, and take a scenic hike or cable car to the top of Mount Misen for breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea. Experience local cuisine while exploring the charming streets. This immersive tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture!
Miyajima Full-Day Tour
A UNESCO World Heritages Tour in Hiroshima (7-8 Hours)
This tour includes two UNESCO World heritages: Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park & Museum, Atomic Bomb Dome and Miyajima island:Itsukushima Shrine, Five Storied Pagoda, Senjokaku, Daiganji Temple or Daishoin-Temple, and Omotesando shopping street. ※Depending on the situation, I may add Orizuru Tower to the itinerary, since Peace Museum may not be suitable for small children. Note: To maximize our tour, I would recommend using a fast boat at least once from or to Miyajima island during this tour.
A UNESCO World Heritages Tour in Hiroshima (7-8 Hours)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18549/43b676e3-47ed-42c1-bebd-935f9e30dd06.jpg)
"ZAZEN"-Zen meditation and Sake-tasting in Saijo, Higashihiroshima
Tired of the crowds in central Hiroshima? Escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a peaceful day in Higashihiroshima. Higashihiroshima, famous for its Sake Brewery, originally developed around Aki Kokubunji Temple, established along the old Saigoku-kaido. How about experiencing Zen meditation (ZAZEN) at this prestigious temple, surrounded by serenity and tradition? After the session, we’ll visit a Sake-Brewery Street (Sakagura-Dori) and taste different types of Sake produced in Saijo.
"ZAZEN"-Zen meditation and Sake-tasting in Saijo, Higashihiroshima
Other Popular Food & Drink Tours in Hiroshima
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/329/8197.jpg)
Central Hiroshima and Okonomiyaki (Local Food) Tour
First up, I bring you to Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. Hiroshima is well known as the first atomic bombed city in the world history. You walk and drop by at many spots built to commemorate the victims and learn more at the Peace Memorial Museum. After that study tour, we roam around Central area and finally arrive at Okonomiyaki restaurant for early supper. Okonomiyaki is Hiroshima's soul food; a savory pancake filled with chopped vegetables, meat, sea food, noodle, egg... Just give it a try.
Central Hiroshima and Okonomiyaki (Local Food) Tour
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/655/8070.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/511/13238.jpg)
Saijo....Sake Town
After 30 min. train ride from Hiroshima, you arrive at this tiny town, SAIJO. Just follow chimneys and you find SAKE here. In this small town, you will encounter the world famous and time-honored sake breweries. Enjoy waking around and drop in at some of sake breweries to have a taste. Good rice and quality water are indispensable for making good sake, though. This town has both of them. In 2025, the Sake festival will be held on October 11&12. Come and join us!!
Saijo....Sake Town
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/655/8070.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/3819/72491.jpg)
"Hiroshima Hops & Sips: A Craft Beer and Tavern Crawl"
We will navigate a 3-hour stroll through the back streets of the entertainment district of Hiroshima trying excellent craft beers and sake and stopping off at bars, pubs, and an izakaya, a traditional drinking house, where locals gather with friends and colleagues to enjoy mouth-watering, small-plate dishes cooked don the grill before your eyes along with free-flowing drinks.
"Hiroshima Hops & Sips: A Craft Beer and Tavern Crawl"
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/16673/66085.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/480x480/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/4180/72492.jpg)
SAIJO SAKE TOWN (SAKAGURA) TOUR
Sakagura is the grouping of breweries in a particular district. The word sake by itself is a generic term for alcohol and Japanese call the clear alcohol unique drink brewed in Japan nihonshu, which has played a central role in Japanese life and culture for 2,000 years. The town of Saijo is one of the premier sake-producing regions in Japan; this tour is a delightful stroll through the district and includes tasting at the breweries.
SAIJO SAKE TOWN (SAKAGURA) TOUR
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/160x160/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/profiles/16673/66085.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18547/6bc1f989-5cba-41f6-b26a-f8af74931843.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18547/1535396c-fbf4-421d-b505-8997972606e8.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18547/dd6be863-01db-4baa-9f41-a2cb5edaf6d4.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18547/0c05d7b7-50a6-4ea0-b52e-19b55efbf72d.jpg)
/filters:strip_exif()/fit-in/1024x1024/filters:quality(50)/gowithguide/tours/18547/e81f1a05-8b25-476d-b94f-20af65468ea5.jpg)