[Kumamoto / Hitoyoshi] Experience Authentic Kuma Shochu Tasting at a Historic Distillery

Sample Itinerary (Model Schedule)

1, Welcome & Introduction

Meet your knowledgeable language guide and distillery host at Yamatoichi Brewery. You will receive a brief orientation regarding safety and an introduction to the geography and history of the Hitoyoshi-Kuma region.

2, Distillery Walkthrough

Enter the operational distillery. Tour the mash preparation, fermentation, and distillation areas while discovering the traditional single-distillation technique (Honkaku Shochu) and the recovery narrative following the 2020 flood.

3, Guided Tasting & Pairing Session

Proceed to the tasting bar. Experience 4 to 5 carefully curated products with guidance from your host, which include:

4, Shopping & Free Time

Highlights

• Discover the 500-Year Legacy of Kuma Shochu: Explore the deep-rooted history and cultural importance of Kuma Shochu, a distinguished spirit that holds Geographical Indication (GI) status.
• Deep-Dive Tour with a Dedicated Language Guide: Enjoy a fully translated guided experience that details each phase of the distillation process, the commitment of the master blender, and the remarkable tale of the distillery’s revival following the severe floods of 2020.
• Unique Crafting Methods: Hot Spring Water & Specialty Ingredients: Uncover innovative brewing techniques, including the use of natural hot spring water sourced from the distillery site, health-focused brown rice shochu, and inventive milk shochu.
• Guided Shochu & Liqueur Tasting: Sample a thoughtfully selected range of authentic shochu and specialty liqueurs (like plum liqueur and dessert liqueurs). Discover the best ways to savor them—neat, on the rocks, with hot water, or mixed with sparkling water.
• Exclusive On-Site Shopping: Shop for distillery-exclusive bottles, local artisan crafts, and traditional drinking vessels (Gara & Choku) to bring home as memorable keepsakes.

Price Details

Included

• Experience fees
• Alcoholic beverage
• Non-alcoholic drinks
• Guide

Not included

• Expenses not mentioned

Important Information

Age & Driving Restrictions

• Legal Drinking Age: By Japanese law, alcohol consumption is strictly limited to individuals aged 20 and older. (Photo ID may be required). Non-alcoholic beverages will be served to guests under 20 or designated drivers.
• Designated Drivers: In accordance with Japanese law, drivers of vehicles, motorcycles, or bicycles are strictly prohibited from participating in alcohol tasting.

Distillery Etiquette & Dress Code

• Dietary Restrictions Prior to Tour (Important): To protect the delicate fermentation process, please refrain from consuming natto (fermented soybeans), citrus fruits (such as oranges), or yogurt on the morning of your tour.
• Footwear & Attire: The distillery tour includes walking on stairs, uneven surfaces, or wet floors. Please wear comfortable clothes and flat, closed-toe walking shoes (sneakers are recommended; high heels are not permitted).

Purchase Notice

• If you are participating alone, you can pay the 2 person fee.
• Basically, sharing seats is assumed.

How to Use

Voucher will be sent via email. Please show your e-voucher at designated location.

Cancellation Policy

• 4 or more day(s) before the activity date: 0% cancellation fee
• Less than 4 day(s) before the activity date: 100% cancellation fee