Shonai Sake Tasting in Tsuruoka City

Tsuruoka City in northern Yamagata is full of resources and offers a variety of assorted, fun activities for visitors. In regards to natural beauty, the city is home to some awe-inspiring landscapes, including the sacred Dewa Sanzan Mountains (recognized by the Michelin Green Guide). The city was also declared a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in 2014 for its diverse culinary traditions.

The area boasts many other blessings, as well. In fact, the Shonai region is one of the nation’s top producers of high-grade rice, with pure water flowing down the surrounding mountains and clear spring water bubbling up after spending 1000 years underground on its way towards the surface.

Sake-producing families have made good use of the region’s rice and the crystal-clear spring water to brew top-notch Japanese rice wine, earning Shonai a reputation as one of Japan’s most renowned sake producing areas. So, Tsuruoka is the ideal spot to indulge in a sake tasting. You can choose from a wide selection of high-quality Japanese sake, produced by dozens of breweries. Try 3 types of fine sake as you enjoy tasting the 3 small dishes to go with them.

The location, right outside of the Tsuruoka Station, is home to a convenient mishmash of eateries, duty-free shops, and stores selling seasonal products, a wonderland for foodies. After you enjoy this tasting experience, you can take the chance to browse the area.