Nara: Sake Tasting Tour at the Birthplace of Japanese Sake

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Kasuga, this brewery embraces the spiritual roots of Nara's sake-making history. Using pure local spring water and traditional brewing techniques, Nara Kasugayama produces sake with a clean, crisp profile and a refined balance. A sip here reflects the serene essence of Nara's sacred landscape.

Located just steps away from the historic Sarusawa Pond and the heart of Naramachi, Imanishi Seibei Shoten has been crafting sake since 1884. Known for its elegant and smooth flavor, this brewery emphasizes quality Yamato rice and soft brewing water, creating sake that pairs perfectly with refined kaiseki cuisine and local dishes.

Situated in the charming old town of Naramachi, Ogawa Matabee Shoten is not a brewery but a beloved local sake shop with deep ties to the community. Housed in a traditional townhouse, the shop offers a handpicked selection of Nara’s best brews, along with stories and recommendations from locals who have trusted the shop for generations. It’s the perfect place to explore the diversity of sake in a relaxed, nostalgic setting—where every bottle comes with a sense of place.

Conveniently located inside JR Nara Station, this modern tasting shop operated by Yagi Brewery invites travelers to sample freshly brewed sake without leaving the city center. The selection includes seasonal and limited-edition varieties, making it a great first or final stop to discover the evolving face of Nara sake culture.