Sake Lovers Private Tour Visit Liquor Store and Izakaya

Sake Lovers Private Tour Visit Liquor Store and Izakaya offers an engaging and authentic dive into Japan’s beloved sake culture, right in the heart of Sapporo. For around three hours, you’ll visit a well-regarded liquor shop, taste a variety of sakes from across Japan, and then relax at a local izakaya enjoying unlimited sake paired with delicious snacks. Priced at $302.01 per person, this experience is designed for enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of sake while savoring the lively pub atmosphere.

What we love about this tour is its combination of education and casual fun. First, the visit to Meishu no Yutaka allows you to compare sake from different regions, which can help you discover your personal favorites. Second, the chance to drink freely at the izakaya — with a guide by your side to explain the nuances — makes this a relaxed, no-pressure introduction to Japanese drinking customs. A minor consideration is that the tour’s length and structure may appeal more to those with a genuine interest in sake rather than casual drinkers or those on a tight schedule.

This tour suits travelers who want an authentic, hands-on introduction to Japan’s sake culture, especially those who appreciate good food and social drinking in a friendly setting. If you’re curious about the varieties of sake and enjoy pairing food with drinks, this experience offers both education and entertainment, all in a manageable format.

Key Points

• In-depth Sake Tasting: Visit a reputable liquor store to taste and compare sake from multiple regions of Japan.
• Authentic Izakaya Experience: Enjoy unlimited sake and traditional snacks at a local izakaya, guided by an English-speaking expert.
• Flexible Ending: After the tour, you can explore Susukino’s lively bar scene or continue your evening at your leisure.
• Private Tour Format: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized and relaxed setting.
• Value for Enthusiasts: The combination of tasting, learning, and social drinking provides a well-rounded introduction to Japanese sake culture.
• Convenient Pickup: The tour offers pickup, making logistics smoother, especially for those unfamiliar with local transport.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Meishu no Yutaka

Your journey begins at Meishu no Yutaka, a well-established sake shop where the focus is on variety and quality. Here, you’ll be guided through a curated selection of sake, exploring different styles, regions, and flavors. We loved the way the shop’s knowledgeable staff help you compare and understand what makes each sake unique. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about learning what makes sake special, whether it’s the rice polishing ratio, fermentation process, or regional characteristics.

The 1.5-hour visit includes a tasting session where you can sample several types of sake, each with its distinct aroma and profile. This part of the experience is particularly valuable for those who want to refine their palate or simply enjoy discovering new favorites. Travelers often comment on how educational and fun this part is, with some describing it as “a perfect way to appreciate sake beyond just drinking it.”

The Izakaya Experience

Next, the tour moves into a lively local izakaya near Susukino — Sapporo’s entertainment and nightlife hub. Here, you’ll get about an hour and a half of unlimited sake, paired with traditional snacks or tapas-style dishes. It’s a social, informal environment where you can relax and chat with your guide and fellow travelers about what you’re tasting.

The guide (often a local expert) explains the Japanese way of enjoying sake—sipping slowly, appreciating the aroma, and pairing it with small bites. Multiple reviews highlight how much fun it is to just drink freely in a friendly setting while learning about the different types of sake and how to serve them. Some travelers appreciate the chance to “just relax and indulge,” especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

Optional Bar Hopping

Once the tour concludes at the izakaya, many choose to continue exploring Susukino’s bar scene. The guide might suggest some spots, or you’re free to roam on your own. If you’re a fan of hashigo-zake (bar hopping), this is a great way to extend your night and soak up Sapporo’s nightlife.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes pickup, making it easier to start your sake adventure without worrying about transportation logistics. It’s near public transit, which is a plus for those staying in central Sapporo. The private nature of the tour means your group can enjoy a personalized experience, free from the rush or noise of larger groups.

Pricing and Value

At just over $300 per person, the tour offers a blend of tasting, education, and socializing that many enthusiasts will find worth the investment. The all-you-can-drink aspect at the izakaya is particularly appealing for those looking to indulge without stress. Keep in mind, the experience is designed for those genuinely interested in sake, as it’s both informative and relaxed.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for sake aficionados or curious newcomers who want to understand more about this traditional Japanese beverage. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate food and drink, and who want a guided, authentic experience that combines learning with fun. If you’re interested in exploring Japan’s drink culture beyond just tasting, this tour offers a hands-on approach that’s both enjoyable and educational.

It may not be perfect if you’re on a strict schedule, or if you’re not particularly fond of sake or social drinking. But for those who love discovering new flavors and sharing a drink or two with friendly guides and fellow travelers, this is a solid choice.

The Sum Up

The Sake Lovers Private Tour provides a well-balanced mix of education, tasting, and socializing. It’s a great way to deepen your appreciation for sake while experiencing a slice of local Sapporo nightlife. The personalized, private format makes it suitable for those who prefer a relaxed atmosphere and tailored guidance. You’ll leave with a better sense of sake varieties and some new favorites, along with a few memorable stories to tell.

For travelers who genuinely enjoy exploring local food and drink scenes, and who appreciate authentic, small-group experiences, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for those eager to learn about sake in a friendly, informal setting and to enjoy some casual bar hopping afterward.

If you’re after a fun, educational taste of Japan’s sake culture, this tour is a compelling choice that combines good value with genuine local flavor.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners who don’t know much about sake?
Yes, the guide explains the basics of sake tasting and enjoyment, making it accessible for newcomers while still appealing to enthusiasts.

How much sake can I expect to drink?
You can drink as much sake as you want during the izakaya session, making it a good value for those who enjoy social drinking.

Are food and snacks included?
Yes, at the izakaya, traditional snacks are served along with the sake, enhancing the tasting experience.

Is transportation included?
Pickup is offered, so your transportation to and from the initial liquor store is covered, simplifying logistics.

Can I continue bar hopping after the tour?
Absolutely. The tour ends near Susukino, a lively area where you can explore more bars on your own or with the guide’s suggestions.

What is the duration of each part of the tour?
The sake store visit lasts about 1.5 hours, and the izakaya session is around 1.5 hours, totaling approximately 3 hours.

Is this experience private?
Yes, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

In summary, this private sake tour in Sapporo offers a blend of education, tasting, and local flavor in an accessible, enjoyable package. Whether you’re a serious sake lover or just curious, you’ll find it both fun and informative.