A Journey Through the Heart of Sake

As I stepped off the train at Saijo Station, the air was filled with a sense of anticipation. Saijo, one of Japan’s three major sake brewing areas, was a place I had longed to explore. The promise of discovering the intricate world of sake, guided by experts, was an opportunity I couldn’t resist. The Saijo Sake Tour, with its seven renowned breweries, was my gateway to understanding this ancient craft.

Our journey began at the Tourist Information Center, where we were greeted by our guide, Ms. Yone. Her presence was both calming and invigorating, a perfect blend of knowledge and warmth. As we walked through the charming streets of Saijo, she shared stories of the town’s rich history and the evolution of sake brewing. Her insights were not just informative but also deeply engaging, painting a vivid picture of the cultural significance of sake in Japan.

The first stop was the Kamotsuru Sake Brewery, a pioneer in Ginjo sake brewing. Here, we watched a short video that introduced us to the art of sake making. The tasting that followed was a revelation. The Daiginjo Gold Kamotsuru, with its delicate flavors, was a testament to the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. Each sip was a journey in itself, a dance of flavors that lingered long after the glass was empty.

The Art of Sake Tasting

As we moved from one brewery to the next, the diversity of sake became apparent. At Fukubijin Sake Breweries, known as the Saijo Brewing School, we tasted the Fukubijin Junmai-Shu. The warmth of the sake, especially during the winter season, was a comforting embrace, a reminder of the meticulous care that goes into its creation.

Kamoizumi Sake Brewery was another highlight. Known for its pure rice sake, the Junmai Ginjoshu 朱泉 Honjikomi was a symphony of flavors, each note perfectly balanced. The experience was enhanced by Ms. Tomoko Ogata, who accompanied us with her infectious enthusiasm and dedication. Her explanations were clear and insightful, adding depth to our understanding of the brewing process.

The tour was not just about tasting sake; it was a celebration of Japanese hospitality and craftsmanship. The staff at each brewery welcomed us with open arms, eager to share their knowledge and passion. Their generosity was a reflection of the spirit of Saijo, a town where tradition and innovation coexist harmoniously.

A Cultural Immersion

The final leg of our journey took us to the Hakubotan Brewery, one of the oldest in Hiroshima Prefecture. Founded in 1675, its history was palpable in every corner. Here, we tasted “Hyoka,” an unfiltered sake that had been fresh frozen in a special way. The unique texture and flavor were unlike anything I had experienced before, a fitting end to a day of discovery.

As the tour concluded, I found myself reflecting on the experience. The Saijo Sake Tour was more than just a tasting; it was a cultural immersion, a window into the heart of Japanese tradition. The dedication of Ms. Yone and Ms. Ogata, along with the warmth of the brewery staff, made it an unforgettable journey.

For anyone visiting Hiroshima or with an interest in sake, this tour is a must. It’s a chance to explore the rich tapestry of Japanese culture, one sip at a time. Saijo Sake Tour