HYOGO, JAPAN: Situated in the lush landscapes of western Japan, Hyogo Prefecture is a destination unlike any other for discerning travelers and lovers of fine dining and sake. Known as the birthplace of Yamada Nishiki, the prized rice variety revered as the "king of sake rice," Hyogo has long been the epicenter of Japan’s sake culture.
With more than 50% of the nation's Yamada Nishiki rice cultivated in this fertile region, it’s no surprise that the area is home to some of the country’s most celebrated sake breweries and culinary experiences. The region's deep connection to sake culture is complemented by its stunning natural beauty and rich heritage, making it an essential destination for those seeking a one-of-a-kind gastronomical journey. For those interested in exploring Japan’s sake-making traditions while indulging in exquisite, locally-sourced cuisine, Hyogo offers an immersive experience at three standout establishments: Miyake Sake Brewery, Izumi Restaurant, and Nishiyama Brewery. These iconic locations represent the very best of Hyogo’s sake and culinary offerings, each showcasing the region’s unique approach to craftsmanship and flavor.
Miyake Sake Brewery: Crafting Tradition and Innovation
Founded in 1819, Miyake Sake Brewery is a hallmark of Hyogo’s sake-making legacy. Situated in the heart of Japan’s sake country, the brewery has earned a reputation for its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to quality. Miyake produces sake using the famed Yamada Nishiki rice, with its most notable offering being the QA variety, made using a meticulous bag-pressing technique that preserves the sake’s purity and minimizes bitterness. Visitors to the brewery can explore the time-honored methods behind sake production through guided tours, sampling Miyake’s sake portfolio, and discovering the fine details that set it apart—such as the use of pristine water from the Manabe River and locally-sourced rice. The brewery also offers a range of exclusive products for purchase, perfect for those looking to take home a taste of Hyogo’s rich sake culture.
Izumi: A Michelin-Starred Dining Experience Paired with Sake
For those seeking a refined culinary experience, Izumi in Kasai is a must-visit destination. This Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in kaiseki, the traditional Japanese multi-course meal that highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients. Each dish at Izumi is meticulously crafted to complement the delicate flavors of Miyake Sake, ensuring an unforgettable pairing experience. Izumi’s serene dining atmosphere offers the perfect setting for guests to enjoy a culinary journey that celebrates the natural beauty of the region. As the only restaurant to exclusively serve sake from Miyake Sake Brewery, Izumi creates an intimate, authentic experience for sake connoisseurs and food lovers alike.
Nishiyama Brewery: Where Tradition Meets Hands-On Experience
For those looking to dive deeper into the art of sake brewing, Nishiyama Brewery, founded in 1849, offers an immersive experience that combines centuries-old traditions with cutting-edge techniques. Located in the mountainous heart of Hyogo, Nishiyama uses pure mountain spring water and locally-grown rice to create its renowned sake. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the brewery, participate in hands-on sake brewing workshops, and enjoy a special overnight stay in the brewery itself—an exclusive opportunity for those looking to explore the inner workings of sake production in a way that few others can. Nishiyama Brewery also features a fermentation-focused restaurant, where each dish is carefully paired with a complementary sake from the brewery’s collection, creating a truly harmonious dining experience.
Hyogo’s rich sake culture and culinary excellence make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Japan's gastronomic heritage. With its world-class sake breweries, Michelin-starred restaurants, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Hyogo offers a unique cultural experience that delights all the senses. For more information on these experiences and tips for planning your trip to Hyogo, visit Hyogo Prefecture’s tourism website.
Image credit: Don Kennedy
