Kuriyama | Step Inside a Century-Old Sake Brewery – Brewing, Sake Lees Cuisine & the Kobayashi Family Heritage
Itinerary Details
A Day in the Life of a Sake Brewery
Step inside a century-old brewery and discover how sake is made, from steaming rice and cultivating koji to fermentation and pressing. With expert guidance, learn how traditional brewing techniques have been preserved alongside modern equipment, and gain a deeper understanding of the ingredients, aromas, and flavors that shape Japanese sake.
From Sake Brewery to Dining Table
Enjoy a creative French-inspired lunch featuring sake lees, a natural byproduct of the brewing process, thoughtfully paired with local ingredients and selected sake. Discover how this traditional brewing ingredient can be transformed into modern cuisine. Afterwards, explore the historic Kobayashi Family Residence and learn about the family’s legacy and its connection to the local sake industry from the Meiji era to the present day.
Itinerary
Inside the Brewery: Brewing & Sake Tasting
Meet at the Brewery & Begin Your Brewery Tour
Meet at Kobayashi Sake Brewery and begin your visit with an introduction to the brewery. Accompanied by an expert guide, step into the brewing area to observe the koji-making room and fermentation process, and discover the techniques at the heart of traditional sake brewing.
Sake Tasting & Discovering Your Preferred Style
Taste several representative sake from the brewery and learn how to appreciate their different characteristics. Your guide will introduce key elements such as acidity, umami, aroma, and the character of the rice, helping you discover the styles and flavors you enjoy most.
Sake Lees Lunch & Kobayashi Family Heritage
Creative Lunch Featuring Sake Lees
Enjoy a creative French-inspired set lunch featuring sake lees, paired with a glass of carefully selected sake. Discover the rich aroma and unique flavors of sake lees while experiencing the creative ways in which ingredients from the brewing process can be incorporated into modern cuisine.
Explore the Historic Kobayashi Family Residence
Step inside the beautifully preserved historic residence and discover the story of the Kobayashi family and its connection to the sake industry. Learn about the changing role of women in Japan’s sake-brewing culture and how the family business has evolved from the Meiji era to the present day. End your visit with an elegant afternoon tea featuring matcha and special sake lees desserts.
Shopping & Return
Choose a Sake Souvenir
Browse a selection of sake, including limited-edition bottles, sake lees products, and locally made handicrafts at the brewery shop. Choose a special souvenir to take home and remember your day in Kuriyama.
End of the Experience
Make your own way back to Kuriyama Station, or return by private vehicle to conclude your immersive day exploring the history, craft, and flavors of Hokkaido sake.
Important Information & Cancellation Policy
Important
Information &
Cancellation Policy
Important Notes
- Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited. Guests who are driving themselves cannot participate in the sake tastings.
- Photography is not permitted in certain areas of the brewery. Please follow all instructions and regulations provided by the brewery.
- Please inform us of any food allergies or dietary restrictions when making your reservation.
