Setouchi for Sake Lovers

The Setouchi region boasts an enviable heritage when it comes to sake and on this three-day itinerary, can combine visits to some of the region’s best sights with brewery tours and ample opportunities to sample premium sake at the source of production.

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Preservation District

Kurashiki prospered as a political and trade center after it came under the direct control of the Tokugawa Shogunate in 1642. Kurashiki’s fortune continued during the late 19th century and early 20th century, this time led by the textile industry. As the town escaped relatively unscathed in WWII, the mix of traditional Japanese and Western-style warehouses and mansions built along the Kurashiki River still remain. Today they are protected as part of the Bikan Historical District which attracts people from all around the world for a taste of the Japan of old.

Kurashiki’s historical quarter is not only expertly preserved, it is also quite lively. As well as museums such as the Ohara Museum of Art with its impressive collection of internationally acclaimed masterpieces, the Kurashiki Museum of Folkcraft and Kurashiki Archaeological Museum, a wide variety of shops, cafes and eateries, from traditional to trendy, occupy many of the traditional buildings. Ivy Square, a red brick facility on the site of a former cotton mill, offers a variety of workshop activities, including Bizen-yaki pottery making, one of Japan’s oldest pottery styles. Walking from place to place passing through an historically preserved cityscape offers a fascinating and historically seamless transition from one attraction to the next.

There are many places to eat around Kurashiki’s historical district, but, if you are looking for a refreshingly sweet treat, one in particular deserves a special mention. Kurashiki Momoko is very popular for its gorgeous and tasty parfaits, desserts and cakes featuring seasonal fruits, including many that are locally grown in Okayama Prefecture. Okayama’s mild climate and technical skill of its farmers have earned it the nickname of the “Kingdom of Fruit” and Kursashiki Momoko is a great place to sample some. There are four outlets to choose from, but the original Sohonten has an impressive collection of French Art Nouveau glassware by Émile Gallé on display.

Travel: Kurashiki Historical Preservation District to Kikuchi Sake Brewery

・Take a taxi from Kurashiki Bikan Historical Preservation District to Kikuchi Sake Brewery (Approx 25 minutes)

Kikuchi Sake Brewery

Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Kikuchi Brewery as you visit their beautifully preserved traditional sake brewery, nestled within the historical district of Tamashima. Kikuchi Brewery is renowned for their unwavering commitment to excellence and has a proud history dating back to 1878.

At the heart of Kikuchi's esteemed reputation lies their remarkable creation, the award-winning Sanzen sake. This exceptional brew has garnered prestigious accolades, winning top honours at the Annual Japan Sake Awards for four consecutive years, and clinched gold medals at the esteemed International Wine Challenge in 2012, 2016 and 2017. The consistent recognition of Sanzen sake speaks volumes about the unwavering quality and unparalleled craftsmanship that defines Kikuchi Brewery.

Kikuchi Brewery employs a steadfast commitment to sourcing only the finest locally-grown rice, the purest water, and the utmost skill in their sake production process. Every step is meticulously executed, ensuring that only the highest quality ingredients are harmoniously blended to create their top-tier offerings.

URL: http://kikuchishuzo.co.jp/en/

Travel: Kikuchi Sake Brewery to Okayama

・Take a taxi from Kikuchi Sake Brewery to Shin-Kurashiki Station (Approx 10 minutes)
・Take the Shinkansen from Shin-Kurashiki Station to Okayama (Approx 10 minutes)

Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden

The majestic black facade of Okayama Castle, from which it earned its moniker, 'Crow Castle', provides a striking contrast to the pristine white walls of Himeji Castle. Positioned gracefully alongside the flowing Asahi River, Okayama Castle invites you to relax and absorb the breath-taking views of the castle itself and adjacent Korakuen Garden. Explore distinctive architectural features of Japanese castle design, view the discover workshops dedicated to the region’s famous Bizen-yaki pottery before your visit to an authentic kiln later in the day and don traditional princess or feudal lord attire for a memorable photoshoot.

The Hayashibara Museum of Art, in the castle grounds, has a prodigious collection of swords, armor, Noh costumes and masks, furniture, paintings, calligraphy, lacquer work and pottery. The building itself is also impressive. Designed by Kunio Maekawa, one of Japan’s most respected architects, seamlessly merges tradition with modern architectural brilliance.

Korakuen Garden, ranked among the top three in the country, is a harmonious fusion of meticulously manicured landscapes, tranquil ponds, and enchanting traditional architecture. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of sculptured landscapes, traditional tea houses, and vibrant koi ponds—a symbol of wealth and power in Japanese culture.

Within the garden you can experience several Japanese traditions. Any time of the year you can try a Japanese tea ceremony in one of the tea houses within the garden. At certain times of the year, some of the formal buildings host tea ceremonies where masters host and teach you the art of tea.

To fully immerse yourself in this rich cultural enclave, we recommend obtaining the Okayama Castle and Korakuen Garden Pass.

URL: https://okayama-castle.jp/home-en/