Niigata Sake Tour, Tasting, & Masterclass

Uncover the world of sake in Niigata, a region that produces some of the finest sake in Japan! Learn about Japanese history, culture, and customs via sake from a Professional Sake Meister (Kikisake-Shi), participate in a sake tasting, food pairing, and enjoy appetizers. You’ll leave this experience with a well-rounded understanding of Japanese sake, flavor profiles, and beyond.

Planted on the northwest coast of Honshu (Japan's main island) lies the scenic prefecture of Niigata. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, snowy winters, and exceptional sake, Niigata offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity that beckons visitors worldwide. Niigata produces some of the finest sake in Japan, thanks to its pristine water sources, high-quality rice, and the dedicated craftsmanship of its sake brewers. The chilly climate of the region plays a pivotal role in the sake-making process, as it facilitates slow fermentation, resulting in a refined and smooth flavor profile.

Discover the fundamentals of Japanese sake from a team of passionate pros, assembled by Junya and Jenya–two expert guides who share an appreciation for Niigata and seek to share all this beautiful region has to offer with travelers and locals alike. With vast knowledge of the region's history, culture, and deep-rooted traditions, they bring a strong sense of professionalism to all of their experiences.

Your sake masterclass experience will begin with an introduction to the sake industry in Niigata followed by information about the surrounding history, culture, and customs. Key learnings will include information about the sake-making process, different varieties of sake, flavor profiles, food pairings, and how the polishing process impacts the final flavor and aroma.

Class flow:

An introduction to sake production in Niigata

Information about sake, the production process, flavor profiles, and more

A sake tasting and appetizer pairings