Guided Tour of Himeji Castle & Sake Tasting at Local Brewery
Immerse yourself in Japanese culture in this tour that combines history and sake! Enjoy a guided visit to Japan’s famous Himeji Castle, and enjoy sake tasting at a local brewery.
Highlights
Explore the rich history of Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Japan's cultural legacy as you wander the castle grounds with a knowledgeable guide.
As you hear legends and true stories about the castle through the years, admire its traditional buildings and structures, immersing in the ambiance of ancient Japan.
Dive into the secrets of sake-making at Nadagiku Sake Brewery, where you’ll taste exquisite sake and learn about the production of Japan’s rice wine.
Since this is a private tour, only your group will participate!
10 meals
Experience Details
One of Japan's most astonishing landmarks, Himeji Castle is a bastion of cultural and historical significance, both a Japanese National Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On this tour, you'll explore Himeji Castle with a tour guide and learn about sake production at a local brewery, where you can wrap up the day tasting some of their finest brews.
As you stroll the castle grounds, you’ll see the majestic Oteman gate, stroll along the enchanting Sannomaru garden, and enter the castle’s labyrinthine corridors and complex chambers while learning the stories that shaped the heritage of Himeji — one of the best-preserved castles in Japan.
Afterward, you'll visit the local Nadagiku Sake Brewery. Here, you’ll tour the facilities and delve into the fascinating world of sake brewing: you'll touch the polished rice grains, smell the aroma of koji fermenting, and taste the finest sake varieties. Feel free to ask questions and load up on souvenirs to take home!
Please note that you'll walk around 2 km (a little over one mile), so please wear comfortable shoes.
Experience flow:
-Meet your guide at the big gate of Himeji Castle and walk around the grounds for about 1.5 hours. Get ready for some spooky tales about the castle’s Okiku well, see attractions inside, and climb all the way up to contemplate the magnificent view from the top floor.
-Leave Himeji Castle and head to Nadagiku Sake Brewery, about 30 minutes away.
-Arrive at Nadagiku Sake Brewery, where you’ll learn the ins and outs of sake making. Your guide will teach you why sake breweries always have sugidama (a cedar ball) at the door before you move on to touring the facilities and enjoying a sake tasting at the brewery. It's the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir to take home!
Inclusions
Guided tour of Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle entrance fee
Tour of the facilities and sake tasting at Nadagiku Sake Brewery
Exclusions
Transportation to and from the meeting point
Additional food and drinks
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host in front of the Otemon Gate (main gate) of Himeji Castle, a 10 minute bus ride from Himeji Station. More detailed information and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking.
Remarks
The tour covers approximately 2 km of walking, so please wear comfortable shoes.
Bringing a bag is recommended if you want to buy any souvenirs.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 2 days before the experience start time to receive a full refund minus a 3.2% transaction fee.
Experience Location
Hyōgo is home to the best beef in the world, Kobe beef, and that’s not all. From vast natural parks to one of the oldest and biggest castles in Japan, this prefecture covers all bases with natural beauty and a thriving food culture inspired by Chinese and French immigrants in the port cities.
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10 meals
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