Introduction
Fushimi District in Kyoto not only boasts the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine but also a rich tradition of sake brewing. Fushimi offers a unique experience for visitors with its picturesque landscape of sake warehouses and back streets. Here’s how to immerse yourself in the world of this area.
1. The Heart of Sake Brewing
Fushimi Sake Warehouses
Fushimi’s sake brewing history dates back centuries. As we mentioned in The story of blue sceneries, The name of Fushimi (伏見) comes from “The place with rich and clear water.” The area’s abundant pure spring water is essential for high-quality sake production. The district is dotted with traditional sake warehouses (Kura), many of which have been in operation for generations. These Kura, with their classic wooden architecture and distinctive white walls, provide a scenic and historic backdrop for exploring the world of sake.
Dating Back in Back Streets
Fushimi’s back streets have many hidden cafes and restaurants, offering a cozy and authentic dining experience. These small businesses offer everything from handmade crafts and traditional clothing to unique souvenirs. Izakaya bars often use locally sourced ingredients and of course the local brand sake. The mood in there gives you a nostalgic moment.
2. Key Sake Breweries to Visit
1. Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum
Gekkeikan Okura Sake Museum immerses visitors in the art of sake brewing. You can explore exhibits with traditional brewing tools, historical artifacts, and detailed brewing process explanations. The tour ends with a sake tasting session, where you sample various types of sake and appreciate different brewing techniques.
2. Kizakura Kappa Country
At Kizakura Kappa Country, visitors can learn about the brewing process, and enjoy tastings of sake and craft beer. The brewery’s restaurant offers delicious meals paired perfectly with their beverages. It provides a comprehensive culinary experience.
3. Fushimi Yumehyakushu
Fushimi Yumehyakushu operates in a beautifully preserved historic building. This brewery uses traditional brewing methods, and visitors can observe the process firsthand. Sake tastings allow you to try a range of sake varieties and you can discover your personal preferences.
3. Sake Experiences In The Breweries
1. Sake Tasting and Pairing
Many breweries in Fushimi offer sake tasting sessions where you can sample different types of sake, from Junmai to Daiginjo. These tastings often include expert guidance on how to appreciate the flavours and aromas of sake. Additionally, some breweries provide pairing experiences, where you can learn how different types of sake complement various foods. This is an excellent way to enhance your understanding and enjoyment of sake.
2. Brewery Tours
Guided tours of the sake breweries are an enriching experience, as they offer in-depth knowledge about the brewing process. You’ll learn about the ingredients, fermentation methods, and the history of sake brewing in Fushimi. Many tours also include behind-the-scenes access to the brewing facilities. These experiences give you a unique perspective on the craftsmanship involved in sake production.
3. Sake Workshops
For those interested in a more hands-on experience, some breweries offer sake-making workshops. These workshops allow you to participate in the brewing process from rice polishing to fermentation. It’s a rare opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and effort required to produce high-quality sake.
4. More Experiences In Fushimi
Scenic Walks and Canal Cruises :
Fushimi’s sake district is not just about the breweries; it’s also about the ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets lined with traditional wooden buildings and sake warehouses. The area’s canals, once used to transport sake, add to the charm. Canal cruises offer a relaxing way to see the district and learn about its history from the water.
Just Walking Around The District :
Walking around Fushimi District offers a delightful mix of history, culture, and charm. As you stroll through its streets, you’ll discover a blend of traditional and modern elements that make this area unique. Here are some examples.
Teradaya inn :
Teradaya Inn is historical site with deep roots in Japanese history. This inn played a significant role during the late Edo period. Here is famous for the incident involving Sakamoto Ryoma, a key figure in the Meiji Restoration. Walking through Teradaya, you can feel the echoes of history and imagine the tumultuous times that shaped modern Japan. The inn’s traditional architecture and historical artifacts provide a glimpse into Japan’s past.
Chokenji Temple :
Chokenji Temple features clear water and red appearances. At the entrance of Chokenji Temple stands the Ryugu-mon, a gate with a distinctive Chinese-inspired design. This unique gate sets the tone for the serene and culturally rich experience that awaits inside. As you approach the main hall, you’ll encounter the pristine water “Akasui” spring. This spring is one of Fushimi’s renowned sources of pure water. Also, it is essential for the area’s sake production.
Conclusion
Fushimi’s sake warehouses and breweries offer a fascinating journey into the world of Japanese sake. Walking around Fushimi District is a journey through time. The blend of Sake experience and historical atmosphere offer a rich and rewarding moments. Whether you’re tasting, touring, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty of the district, it should be one of the highlights of your journey in Kyoto.
| INFOMATION | |
|---|---|
| Address | Fushimi-ku, Kyoto How to get there? (Okura Sake Museum) |
| Access | 5 minutes walk from Chushojima Station (Keihan Railway) |
| Recommend Website | TripAdvisor – Kyoto Insider Sake Experience |
