About this tour

Experience the essence of Nara through a curated sake journey in Naramachi, the beautifully preserved old-town district where centuries-old merchant culture, wooden lattice townhouses, and narrow stone lanes create the perfect backdrop for an immersive tasting adventure.

This guided walking tour takes you to three carefully selected sake destinations from among Nara’s most beloved establishments: Harushika Sake Brewery, Nara Izumi Yusai, Kyokan Nakai Saketen, and Ogawa Matabei Shoten Naramachi. Each stop reveals a different facet of Nara’s sake heritage—ranging from historic brewing traditions to modern craft selections and artisan culture.

At Harushika (Imanishi Seibei Shoten), one of Nara’s most iconic breweries, you’ll sample elegant junmai and ginjo varieties rooted in the legendary Nanto Morohaku style. Their tasting hall, set inside a historic townhouse, offers an inviting space to learn how Nara shaped the origins of Japanese sake.

At Nara Izumi Yusai, a specialty boutique dedicated exclusively to Nara-made sake, you’ll discover small-batch brews from independent local producers. Knowledgeable staff introduce you to unique flavor profiles—from dry and crisp to aromatic and fruity—giving you a sommelier-level insight into regional craftsmanship.

Kyokan Nakai Saketen, a long-standing neighborhood liquor shop, showcases Nara’s everyday drinking culture. Here, the focus is on variety and accessibility, offering a chance to taste beloved local brands and seasonal releases enjoyed by residents across the prefecture.

Ogawa Matabei Shoten, a traditional craft shop established in 1877, adds an unexpected cultural dimension to the tour. While not a brewery, it offers exclusive sake-themed goods, artisan wooden carvings, and beautifully crafted souvenirs—perfect for taking a piece of Nara’s spirit home with you.

Naramachi Brewery is a local craft beer spot in the heart of Nara, brewing small-batch ales, IPAs, and seasonal beers inside a renovated traditional townhouse. Visitors can enjoy tasting flights in the cozy taproom and experience fresh, on-site brews inspired by Nara’s history and local ingredients. It’s an ideal stop for travelers seeking authentic Nara craft beer and a true microbrewery experience.

From historic breweries to intimate specialty shops, this tour blends education, culture, and flavor, making it ideal for travelers seeking an authentic experience beyond temples and deer. Whether you're a seasoned sake fan or a curious beginner, each stop deepens your understanding of Japan’s national drink while revealing the charm of Naramachi’s quiet streets.