Kyoto: 12-Sake Tasting, Guided Flavor & History Commentary

Kyoto, Japan
Duration40m
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesJapanese, English
Group sizeUp to 30 travelers

Overview

Uncover the rich tradition of Japanese sake with a guided tasting featuring 12 distinct varieties, each chosen to highlight the unique aspects of this beloved beverage. A knowledgeable host guides you through the details of each sake — from the rice and brewing region to the flavor notes that set them apart. Ideal for novices and enthusiasts alike, this experience lets you compare flavors and deepen your appreciation of sake's complexity. Located in Kyoto's vibrant Kawaramachi district, My Sake World offers a welcoming space to explore and purchase your favorites, taking home a piece of Japan's sake heritage.

Planning your Kyoto itinerary? This tasting fits easily between temple visits and sightseeing, thanks to its central Kawaramachi location. We recommend booking in advance, though walk-ins are welcome if space allows — an easy, English-friendly way to add cultural depth to your trip.

What's included

  • Bottled water
  • A carefully selected lineup of 12 distinctive sakes, gathered from Kyoto and across Japan
  • Sake making experience

What to expect

Your host warmly welcomes you and introduces the world of Japanese sake before explaining how the tasting works. At the tasting counter, 12 distinct sakes await your exploration.

You'll move through them one by one at a comfortable pace. For each sake, your host shares key details — the rice variety, brewing region, and standout characteristics like aroma, sweetness, acidity, and body — along with simple ways to describe what you're tasting.

The lineup is intentionally varied: light and fragrant styles, rich and full-bodied ones, dry and crisp varieties, and deep, aged sakes. Tasting them side by side makes the differences easy to recognize, and most guests find a favorite style by the end.

No prior knowledge is needed — the explanation adjusts to your interest, working equally well for beginners and enthusiasts.

By the end, you'll clearly understand the different sake styles and which suit your palate. Any sake featured can be purchased on the spot, making a meaningful Kyoto souvenir — along with a genuine appreciation for sake's diversity.

Guests under 20 cannot take part in the experience. Pregnant/nursing guests are advised to refrain from alcohol.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Look for the large sake-bottle-shaped "SAKE" sign standing beside a dark wooden entrance with a "My Sake World" noren curtain and a round paper lantern. Walk down the narrow alley next to the sign to reach the entrance.

End point

Look for the large sake-bottle-shaped "SAKE" sign standing beside a dark wooden entrance with a "My Sake World" noren curtain and a round paper lantern. Walk down the narrow alley next to the sign to reach the entrance.

Additional information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Seating is limited, so if you'd like to enjoy the experience seated, please contact us in advance by message.
  • Guests under 20 cannot take part in the experience. Pregnant/nursing guests are advised to refrain from alcohol.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
From
3,900.00 JPY per person
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in Kyoto
From
3,900.00 JPY per person
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