Nara sake – tasting in Miwa

Nara is considered the cradle of Japanese sake: according to tradition, refined sake was first made here in the 8th century at the Ōmiwa-jinja shrine, in the Miwa area (city of Sakurai, about 30 km from Nara). That shrine is still the most venerated by master brewers throughout Japan, and around it are concentrated centuries-old breweries where sake production is maintained according to ancestral methods. The most accessible visit for travellers is the Imanishi Shuzō brewery, active for more than 350 years, which receives small groups to explain the brewing process and offer tastings of its most renowned brands. The tastings cost from 1.000 to 2.000 ¥ depending on the number of varieties. The main brewing season runs from November to February, when the visits are most complete. From Nara, take the JR Sakurai Line train to Miwa station (about 30 minutes) and walk 10 minutes to the shrine and the breweries. If you prefer not to travel, in the centre of Nara there are bars specialising in local sake where you can do an informal tasting. Look for bottles with the Miwa or Harushika brand as a souvenir.