Embark on a premium guided tour of Yamatoichi Brewery, a historic distillery located in Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto—the birthplace of "Kuma Shochu," a traditional Japanese spirit with over 500 years of history. Accompanied by a dedicated guide fluent in language, you will gain deep insights into the heritage, craftsmanship, and unique production methods behind this iconic spirit. Enjoy an exclusive tasting of distinctive spirits, including shochu crafted with natural hot spring water, brown rice shochu, and milk shochu.
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Craft Shochu Distillery Guided Tour
The Highlight
Discover the 500-Year Legacy of Kuma Shochu : Learn about the rich history and cultural significance of Kuma Shochu, a premium spirit recognized with a Geographical Indication (GI) status.
Deep-Dive Tour with a Dedicated Language Guide : Experience a seamlessly translated guided tour covering every step of the distillation process, the master blender’s dedication, and the inspiring story of the distillery’s recovery from the 2020 torrential floods.
Unique Crafting Methods: Hot Spring Water & Specialty Ingredients: Discover rare brewing innovations, such as using natural hot spring water drawn from the distillery grounds, health-conscious brown rice shochu, and creative milk shochu.
Guided Shochu & Liqueur Tasting : Compare a curated selection of authentic shochu and specialty liqueurs (such as plum liqueur and dessert liqueurs). Learn how to enjoy them best—whether neat, on the rocks, mixed with hot water, or with sparkling water.
Exclusive On-Site Shopping : Browse and purchase distillery-exclusive bottles, local specialty crafts, and traditional drinking vessels (Gara & Choku) to take home as unforgettable souvenirs.
The Experience
Sample Itinerary (Model Schedule) 1, Welcome & Introduction Meet your dedicated language guide and distillery host at Yamatoichi Brewery. Receive a brief safety orientation and an introduction to the geography and history of the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region.
2, Distillery Walkthrough Step inside the working distillery. Walk through the mash preparation, fermentation, and distillation areas while learning about the traditional single-distillation method (Honkaku Shochu) and the 2020 flood recovery story.
3, Guided Tasting & Pairing Session Move to the tasting bar. Sample 4 to 5 carefully selected products under the guidance of your host, including:
4, Shopping & Free Time
Price Details
How to Use
- Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.
Purchase Notice
- If you are participating alone, you can pay the 2 person fee.
- Basically, sharing seats is assumed.
Important Booking Information
Age & Driving Restrictions
- Legal Drinking Age: By Japanese law, alcohol consumption is strictly limited to individuals aged 20 and older. (Photo ID may be required). Non-alcoholic beverages will be served to guests under 20 or designated drivers.
- Designated Drivers: In accordance with Japanese law, drivers of vehicles, motorcycles, or bicycles are strictly prohibited from participating in alcohol tasting.
Distillery Etiquette & Dress Code
- Dietary Restrictions Prior to Tour (Important): To protect the delicate fermentation process, please refrain from consuming natto (fermented soybeans), citrus fruits (such as oranges), or yogurt on the morning of your tour.
- Footwear & Attire: The distillery tour includes walking on stairs, uneven surfaces, or wet floors. Please wear comfortable clothes and flat, closed-toe walking shoes (sneakers are recommended; high heels are not permitted).
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellation made at least 4 day(s) before departure date, Fully refundable (100% refund)
- Cancel during 0 ~ 3 day(s) of departure, Non-refundable (0% refund)