Katsuyama Townscape & Fermentation Day Tour (Okayama)

Many towns and cities in Japan are known for their production of fermented condiments like soy sauce and miso. But Maniwa in Okayama Prefecture is unique in that it offers a variety of fermented products both originating in Japan and abroad, including cheese, wine, and craft beer. Making ample use of the pure water flow from the Hiruzen Highlands in the northern part of the prefecture, its unique fermentation food culture has been passed down through generations and now blends innovative methods with tradition.

On this 6-hour tour, you'll explore the Katsuyama Townscape Preservation District, sample sake and miso made with local fermentation methods, and learn about the area's traditional culture from locals.

Experience Flow:

- Meet your host at JR Chugoku Katsuyama Station at 9:50

- Enjoy a walking tour of the Katsuyama Townscape Preservation District, a former post town that retains its traditional atmosphere with merchant houses and cobblestone streets (30 min)

- Visit a local brewery and learn about its fermentation methods (1 h)

- Enjoy lunch with fermented foods, taste hard and soft water and sample sake (1 h 15 min)

- Stroll through the Katsuyama Townscape Preservation District freely (go souvenir shopping, look for fermented condiments and roasted sake, or activities like indigo dyeing) (1 h)

- Travel by private bus or taxi (30 min)

- Visit a vinegar and miso factory and brewery and learn more about the local fermentation food culture (1 h)

- Drop off at JR Chugoku Katsuyama Station (around 16:00)

Located between Hiroshima and Osaka, Okayama is a picturesque prefecture with plenty of authentic experiences and a distinct culture that makes a great addition to any travel itinerary in Western Japan.