How to Plan Your 3 Hours Kyoto Insider Sake Experience

If you’re visiting Kyoto and want to explore the world of Sake, then the 3 hours Kyoto Insider Sake Experience is the perfect tour for you. This tour will take you to the Fushimi Sake District, which is one of Japan’s most famous sake producing areas.

Experience

Join the fun and educational experience to change your way of enjoying Sake. You will deepen your knowledge of the Sake making process and a bit of history of its product. By joining this tour, you will find your favorite bottle through our fun sake tasting session.

Highlights

• Explore the Fushimi Sake District of Kyoto
• Visit Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, the largest sake brewery in Fushimi
• Witness traditional brewing processes
• Try some of the flavours produced at the brewery
• Sake Tasting and food pairing with an expert

Full Description

The tour starts with a meet and greet with your guide, who will then take you on a three-hour tour exploring the Fushimi Sake District in Kyoto. This district is home to about 30 breweries, including the Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum, which is the largest sake brewery in Fushimi. During the Insider Sake Brewery Tour, you will get a chance to deepen your knowledge of Sake and witness traditional brewing processes which have been passed down from generation to generation. The sake expert will share insights on the different types of Sake and its production processes. At the end of your brewery tour, you will have the chance to taste some of the different flavors produced at the brewery. The expert will also provide you with guidance on selecting your favorite bottle based on your tastes. Afterward, You will participate in a sake tasting and food pairing session. A range of dishes including local delicacies will be paired with an expert in a traditional Japanese setting. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the world of Sake in Kyoto. Book the tour here and join an unforgettable experience exploring the rich history and traditions of Sake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kyoto

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you will need to make a stop in Kyoto at some point. This beautiful ancient city has unique attractions and cultural activities that make it a must-visit destination. But before you embark on your journey, here are some questions you may have about Kyoto.

1. What is Kyoto famous for?

Kyoto is known for its rich cultural heritage, architecture, temples, and traditional gardens. The city was the capital of Japan for over a millennium, providing it with deep historical, cultural, and religious significance. Besides that, Kyoto is also famous for its cuisine, especially Kaiseki cuisine, which is a multi-course traditional Japanese meal. Kyoto is also home to a vast collection of traditional arts and crafts such as pottery, textiles, and lacquerware.

2. When is the best time to visit Kyoto?

The best time to visit Kyoto is in spring and fall when the weather is moderate, and the city is at its most colorful. In the spring, you can witness the famous cherry blossom season, where the city is bathed in pink from the blooming cherry trees. In the fall, the leaves turn shades of red and orange, offering breathtaking sights.

3. What are some famous tourist destinations in Kyoto?

Kyoto is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu Temple, and the Fushimi Inari Shrine. Other famous tourist destinations include Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, the Philosopher’s Path, and Gion, the geisha district.

4. How long should I stay in Kyoto?

We recommend that you spend at least three to four days in Kyoto to see most of the major cultural attractions that the city has to offer. However, if you prefer a slower pace, you can extend your stay to one week or even more.

5. How can I get around Kyoto?

Kyoto has an extensive transportation network, including buses, trains, and taxis. The most convenient way to get around the city is by using the bus system as it grants access to most of the tourist destinations. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or take a taxi for short distances.

6. What is the local currency in Kyoto?

The local currency used in Kyoto, like the rest of Japan, is the Japanese yen. Make sure you bring enough cash with you as not all places accept credit or debit cards.

7. What are some recommended Japanese dishes to try in Kyoto?

Kyoto is famous for its Kaiseki cuisine, which is a multi-course meal that changes with the seasons. However, if you’re not too keen on trying Kaiseki, some must-try dishes are sushi, tempura, and ramen. Don’t miss out on trying Yatsuhashi, the local sweet that’s made from glutinous rice and filled with red bean paste or other flavors.

8. Can I use public Wi-Fi in Kyoto?

Yes, you can access public Wi-Fi at the airport, train stations, and some tourist attractions for free. However, it’s always a good idea to rent a pocket Wi-Fi or purchase a SIM card, so you have internet access throughout your stay.

9. What is the dress code for visiting temples and shrines?

When visiting temples and shrines in Kyoto or Japan for that matter, we recommend that you dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, shorts, or anything that shows too much skin. You can also carry a shawl to cover your shoulders in case you’re wearing a sleeveless top.

10. Are there any must-do cultural activities in Kyoto?

Kyoto is steeped in history and culture, offering several traditional activities that you can participate in. Some must-do cultural activities include a tea ceremony, calligraphy or shodo, ikebana, or flower arrangement, and pottery at a traditional workshop. In conclusion, Kyoto is a destination that offers an unmatched cultural and historical experience. Use this FAQ as a guide to plan your trip to Kyoto so you can see all the famous tourist sites, explore the cuisine and participate in cultural activities it has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kyoto

Kyoto is known as the cultural capital of Japan and attracts millions of tourists every year. Being the former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is not only full of history and culture but also has modern attractions to explore. There is no shortage of things to do in Kyoto. However, as a tourist, when it comes to planning your trip, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to see and do. To help you make the most of your time in Kyoto, we have put together a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Kyoto.

Step 1: Explore the Historical and Cultural Sites

Kyoto has over 2,000 temples, shrines, and other historical and cultural sites. It’s impossible to visit them all, but there are a few must-see attractions that you should not miss. Here are some of the top historical and cultural sites to visit:

1.1 Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine

The Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most popular attractions in Kyoto. This shrine is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that cover the hiking trails of Mount Inari. The hike to the summit of Mount Inari can take up to 2 hours, but the view from the top is well worth it.

1.2 Explore Kiyomizu-dera Temple

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most visited temples in Kyoto. The temple is impressive not only for its architecture but also for its location on a hill, which provides breathtaking views over the city.

1.3 Visit Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion)

Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion, is another UNESCO World Heritage site in Kyoto. The temple is famous for its golden exterior and reflection on the pond, which makes it one of the most photographed attractions in Kyoto.

Step 2: Experience Japanese Culture and Tradition

Kyoto is a place where you can experience Japanese culture and tradition at its finest. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in Japanese culture and tradition:

2.1 Watch a Geisha Performance

Kyoto is one of the few places in the world where you can watch a geisha performance. Geisha, also known as geiko in Kyoto, are traditional Japanese female entertainers who act as hostesses and whose skills include performing various arts such as classical music, dance, games, and conversation, mainly to entertain male customers.

2.2 Try on a Kimono

Wearing a kimono is a traditional Japanese experience that many tourists try while they are in Kyoto. Kimonos can be rented from various shops around the city, and some shops will even help you put them on and take them off.

2.3 Participate in a Tea Ceremony

The Japanese tea ceremony is a tradition that dates back hundreds of years. It is an art form that involves the ceremonial preparation and presentation of tea. Participating in a tea ceremony is a great way to experience Japanese culture and tradition.

Step 3: Enjoy Japanese Cuisine

The food in Kyoto is a must-try. The city offers a wide variety of traditional and modern Japanese dishes. Here are some of the dishes that are a must-try when in Kyoto:

3.1 Ramen

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup dish that has become popular all over the world. In Kyoto, you can find many shops that specialize in ramen, and each shop has its unique flavor and style.

3.2 Sushi

Sushi is a Japanese dish that is made with vinegared rice, seafood, and vegetables. The sushi in Kyoto is famous for its freshwater fish, which is sourced from the city’s surrounding rivers.

3.3 Matcha

Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder that has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries. In Kyoto, you can find many shops that specialize in matcha, and you can try everything from matcha ice cream to matcha-flavored cakes.

Step 4: Explore the Natural Beauty of Kyoto

Kyoto has many natural wonders that you should not miss while in the city. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Kyoto:

4.1 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the most famous natural attractions in Kyoto. The bamboo grove is a peaceful and serene place to escape the city and enjoy nature.

4.2 Philosopher’s Path

The Philosopher’s Path is a scenic walking path that runs alongside a canal and is lined with cherry trees. The path is especially popular during the cherry blossom season when the trees are in bloom.

4.3 Kurama-dera Temple and Mt. Kurama

Kurama-dera Temple is a temple that is located on the top of Mount Kurama. The temple is a great place to visit for its architecture and history. The hike to the top of Mount Kurama is not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are well worth it.

Book Your Tour Now

Kyoto is a city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. It’s a place where you can experience Japanese traditions and cuisine at its finest. We hope this step-by-step guide has provided you with some useful information to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Kyoto. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, drink plenty of water, and enjoy your time in this amazing city.