Sake Tasting in Kyoto

A spirit made with fermented rice, sake is Japan’s most iconic drink. And the heart of the country’s sake industry lies in Fushimi, a city known for its ultra-pure spring water and long history of brewing tradition. But you can taste the best sake Fushimi produces while visiting the former Japanese capital of Kyoto. Here are some sake tasting options and tours to consider, with some suggested pairing activities to make the most of your trip. 

Sake Tastings

Let your palate be your guide as you sample some of Japan’s finest sake on a tasting-themed excursion. Stop by a top sake brewery or sake bar to savor their latest creation, or pair your sake tasting trip with food-themed activities like a cooking class or trip to Kyoto’s famous Nishiki Food Market.

Brewery Tours

Pay tribute to Japan’s sake brewing traditions by exploring its production process. Learn the ins and outs of this unique drink by visiting brewing facilities like the famous Gekkeikan and its adjacent Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, or tour a more modern distillery like Matsui Shuzo. Some trips even pair your brewery visit with stops at nearby landmarks like Fushimi Inari Shrine.