For anyone with an interest in Japanese sake, the Otokoyama Sake Brewery, in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, is a must see. With a history spanning over 340 years, the brewery's sake was a favorite of the Tokugawa shogunate. It was even depicted in works by one of Japan's most famous Ukiyoe masters, Utamaro. As you enter the Otokoyama property, a lovely Japanese garden welcomes you. Inside the brewery are large glass windows where you can view production facilities, and there is a museum dedicated to the art of making sake. Of course, there is also a sake tasting room and gift shop.
- 1 min read
Hokkaido's Otokoyama Sake Brewery
340 years of history in Asahikawa

By Sandra Isaka
Community writer

Within in the grounds of the brewery, this building is open to the public.

Visitors can take a look at the sake making process.

The brewery is open everyday from 9:00am to 5:00pm, last entry is at 4:30pm.

Some of the museum exhibits have English explanations.

Pamphlets are available in Japanese, English, Korean, and Chinese.

The tasting room. There is usually an English-speaking staff member here to assist non-Japanese visitors.

The brewery is about 15 minutes by taxi from the center of Asahikawa Station or 30 minutes from Asahikawa airport. There is also a bus stop nearby.

As long as you are not driving, purchase some sake and enjoy it while overlooking the lovely Japanese garden.

In addition to these gourds, a variety of flowers bloom in the garden from May to September.
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Elena Daurtseva
4 years ago
I love Japanese sake, I bet this one is really good.
1 comment in total
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