Guided Tour of Himeji Castle & Sake Tasting at Local Brewery

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!