Hida Furukawa, Gifu Prefecture, the home of sake. In this beautiful townscape, there is a long-established sake brewery with over 150 years of history: “Watanabe Shuzo.” This time, we introduce a unique and luxurious experience for international visitors: a private tour of normally restricted areas and a special sake tasting at this prestigious brewery. Spend an unparalleled and luxurious time delving into the deep world of sake and the rich culture of Hida.
Observe the sake brewing process, which is usually off-limits, and savor the brewery’s proud sake to your heart’s content. Sake enthusiasts, as well as beginners, will surely be captivated by the depth of sake through this special experience.
Contents
What is “Watanabe Shuzo,” a long-established brewery in Hida Furukawa?

Hida Furukawa, located in Hida City, Gifu Prefecture, is a charming town known as “Little Kyoto of Hida.” At its heart, Watanabe Shuzo, with over 150 years of history, has produced numerous famous sakes through the harsh winter cold of Hida, pure water, and the craftsmanship of its artisans. Its 대표 brand, “Hourai,” has received high acclaim both domestically and internationally.
Over 150 years of history: A sake brewery steeped in Hida Furukawa’s tradition and craftsmanship.
Pure water and rice: High-quality sake nurtured by Hida’s rich nature.
Signature brand “Hourai”: A popular sake loved both in Japan and abroad.
Charming townscape: Enjoy exploring Hida Furukawa’s picturesque streets along with the brewery tour.
To the Private Area! Contents of the Private Sake Brewery Tour

This special experience takes you inside Watanabe Shuzo’s premises, which are normally not open to the public. With an English interpreter, you can participate with peace of mind even if you have no prior knowledge of sake.
- History and Philosophy of Sake Brewing: Learn about Watanabe Shuzo’s over 150 years of history and its philosophy behind sake brewing.
- Observation of the Production Process: Closely observe the sake brewing process, which is usually unseen. Experience the site where traditional methods and modern technology merge, from steaming rice to fermentation and pressing.
- Interaction with the Brewery Owner and Experts: The brewery owner himself or sake experts will guide you and answer your questions carefully. This is a valuable opportunity to hear in-depth stories about sake brewing.
Brewery Exclusive! Special Sake Tasting Experience

The highlight of the tour is a special sake tasting exclusive to the brewery. You can enjoy a variety of sakes prepared only for this experience, which you normally wouldn’t be able to taste.
- Non-commercial and Limited Edition Sakes: You can taste non-commercial products and limited edition sakes that are only available here.
- Aged Sake Tasting: A valuable opportunity to learn about the depth of sake, including long-aged varieties.
- With Brewery-exclusive Sake Vessels: Taste using Watanabe Shuzo’s original beautiful sake vessels. You can appreciate the beauty of sake visually as well.
- Fusion with Hida’s Food Culture: Information about Hida’s local sake and local ingredients and food culture will also be provided, deepening your understanding of sake.
Book this special sake brewery experience
Reasons to Recommend This Experience

- Special Private Tour: A unique opportunity to access normally restricted areas with an English interpreter.
- Deep Cultural Understanding: Learn directly about the history, philosophy, and craftsmanship of sake brewing, deepening your understanding of Japanese culture.
- Rare Sake Tasting: Enjoy limited edition and aged sakes that can only be tasted here, not available commercially.
- Direct Interaction with the Brewery Owner: A valuable opportunity to hear directly from sake professionals.
- The Charm of Hida Furukawa: Experience the charm of rural Japan along with its beautiful townscape.
Hida Furukawa Watanabe Shuzo Private Tour & Tasting Experience Overview
- Experience Name: Watanabe Shuzo Private Sake Brewery Tour & Special Tasting Experience
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Location: Watanabe Shuzo (7-7 Ichinomachi, Furukawa-cho, Hida City, Gifu)
- Language: English interpreter included
- Target Audience: From sake beginners to enthusiasts, and those interested in Japanese culture
- Fee: Please check the booking site (may vary depending on experience details)
- Booking Method: Advance booking required
- View Details & Book Here
What to Know Before Your Trip
Regarding Reservations: Due to this being a private tour, there is a limited capacity. Early booking is recommended, especially during popular seasons.
Participation of Minors: Sake tasting is limited to those aged 20 or older. Please confirm about minor participation in the tour at the time of booking.
Transportation: Hida Furukawa is accessible from Nagoya and Takayama. Please research detailed transportation methods in advance.
No Drunk Driving: Driving after sake tasting is strictly prohibited. We recommend using public transportation.
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Experience the Deep World of Sake and Culture in Hida Furukawa
The private tour and tasting experience at Watanabe Shuzo in Hida Furukawa, Gifu Prefecture, is a valuable opportunity to delve into the depths of sake production, the passion of artisans, and the rich food culture of Hida—something not experienced through typical sightseeing. Special access to restricted areas and tasting limited edition sake only available at the brewery will surely make your trip to Japan unforgettable.
Whether you are a sake lover or someone looking to learn about sake, be sure to experience the true essence of sake and Japanese culture at Watanabe Shuzo in Hida Furukawa.