Harushika

Sake Brewery

A Living Legacy

of Nara’s Sacred Sake Tradition

Founded in 1884, Harushika Sake Brewery—officially known as Imanishi Seibei Shoten—is one of Nara’s most iconic and internationally recognized sake producers. Nestled in the historic Naramachi district, the brewery carries on the legacy of Nanto Morohaku, a refined sake style that originated in Nara and once graced the tables of emperors and monks.

The brewery’s main building, once the residence of a senior monk from Kofuku-ji Temple, was gifted to the Imanishi family in 1924 and now serves as a charming venue for sake tastings, cultural events, and seasonal tours. For just ¥700, visitors can sample five varieties of sake, from crisp junmai to fruity ginjo, and take home a souvenir tasting glass—a favorite experience among international travelers.

Harushika is known for its delicate balance of tradition and innovation, producing sake that pairs beautifully with both Japanese and Western cuisine. The shop also offers a curated selection of sake-themed gifts, including exclusive brews only available on-site.

Whether you're a seasoned sake connoisseur or a curious first-timer, Harushika offers a warm, educational, and flavorful introduction to Japan’s national drink—right in the heart of Nara.

Explore the Sights

See photos that bring Harushika to life.

Traditional Japanese building with wooden exterior, tiled roof, and various signs and banners outside, including a black banner with red and white characters and a yellow sign with English and Japanese text.
Traditional Japanese building with a signboard featuring Japanese kanji characters in gold, dark wooden frame, tiled roof, and white decorative window shutters.
Decorative display with two large sake barrels, a bronze reindeer statue, and various Japanese signs and certificates on the wall inside a restaurant or store.
Inside a traditional Japanese restaurant with a group of customers seated around a long table, some standing, with artwork and signs on the walls, and a vending machine in the background.
Interior of a Japanese shop or restaurant, with customers browsing and browsing merchandise, dark wood decor, certificates hanging from the ceiling, and displays on counters.
Traditional Japanese entrance curtain with white kanji characters on a dark green background, hanging in front of a doorway, with a wooden sign with green kanji characters above it.