Tasting All Types of Sake with Sommelier

Experience the Art of Sake Tasting in Tokyo

Imagine stepping into a cozy sake bar in Shinjuku, where you’re greeted by a friendly expert eager to share Japan’s favorite rice wine. For just under $70, you get about an hour and a half of tasting 67 different types of sake, guided by a seasoned sake sommelier. This tour, recommended by 99% of previous participants and rated a perfect 5.0 from 142 reviews, offers a rare opportunity to deepen your understanding of sake beyond the usual bottle shop or restaurant order.

What we particularly love about this experience is how approachable and informative it is — no previous knowledge needed. Aki, the guide, not only introduces you to a wide variety of sake but also explains how to read labels, which sake is best served warm, cold, or at room temperature, and how to match them with Japanese foods. Plus, the fact that you get a personalized pamphlet to review later makes it a practical keepsake. The second highlight? The chance to try exclusive Japanese sake, including some that aren’t easily shipped abroad, making this tasting truly special.

A small caveat to keep in mind: this is a seated, intimate tasting session rather than a lively pub crawl. It’s perfect if you want to learn rather than just drink, but if you’re expecting a party atmosphere, this might feel a little subdued. Also, booking about a month in advance is recommended, as it’s a popular activity.

This tour best suits curious travelers who love learning about local food and drink, especially those interested in Japanese traditions, sake aficionados, or first-timers eager to expand their palate in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this experience offers both education and enjoyment.

Key Points

• In-Depth Sake Knowledge: Learn how to decode labels, the best ways to serve different types, and pairing tips.
• Wide Selection: Tasting 67 varieties, including exclusive Japanese sake unavailable elsewhere.
• Expert Guidance: Aki is praised for his friendliness, knowledge, and engaging teaching style.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Isetan Shinjuku, easily accessible and centrally located.
• Practical Materials: Takes home a pamphlet to review the tasting notes and tips.
• Authentic Experience: Small group or private setting fosters personalized attention and comfort.

Exploring the Sake Tasting Tour in Tokyo

The Venue and Location

The tour begins at a sake bar located inside the Isetan Shinjuku Store, a prime shopping and cultural hub in Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku district. The convenience of this spot is one of its strengths — you can combine it easily with other sightseeing or shopping plans. Upon arrival, you’re welcomed into a cozy, intimate setting ideal for learning without feeling overwhelmed.

The Guide: Aki’s Approach

Throughout the session, Aki’s friendly demeanor and deep knowledge shine. His passion for sake is contagious, and reviews often highlight how personable and engaging he is. One reviewer notes that Aki’s explanations make it easy to follow along even for beginners, and that he handed out a pamphlet explaining the basics of sake production, tasting, and label reading. Many mention how this added a practical touch, helping them remember details long after the tasting.

The Tasting Process and Sake Variety

The core of this experience is the tasting itself. Aki begins by explaining the different types of sake, how they’re made, and what distinguishes one from another — such as the rice polishing ratio, fermentation process, and whether the sake is pasteurized or not.

Then, the fun begins: sampling a vast array of sake, one after another. You’ll try hot, warm, cold, sparkling, dry, and sweet sakes, gaining insights into which are best suited for different temperatures and occasions. As one reviewer puts it, “We learned all about how sake is produced, how to read a sake bottle and pick one based on our personal tastes.”

Label Decoding and Food Pairings

One standout feature is learning to decode the labels on sake bottles. Aki explains what the different markings mean, giving you the confidence to pick sakes in stores or restaurants. He also shares tips on which sake goes well with various Japanese dishes, transforming your understanding of sake from mere tasting to a culinary experience.

You might find, as others did, that certain sakes are especially good with sushi, tempura, or grilled fish, enhancing your appreciation for Japan’s food culture. For some, this adds a practical element, enabling better choices when ordering sake in future meals.

Exclusive Sakes and Special Offers

The tour provides an opportunity to taste special sake only available in Japan — a treat for those wanting a genuine authentic experience. Many reviews mention how they sampled varieties they couldn’t find back home, making this tasting a memorable souvenir of their trip.

The Value and Group Dynamic

At $67.92 per person, the price reflects the extensive selection and expert guidance. Considering the amount of sake, the personalized attention, and educational value, many agree it’s a worthwhile spend for those looking to deepen their Japanese culinary knowledge.

Most participants book about four weeks in advance, which speaks to its popularity. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a relaxed, personalized experience.

What Reviews Say

The overwhelming sentiment is that this is both fun and educational. One reviewer called it “life-changing,” marveling at how much they learned about sake’s history, ingredients, and production. Others appreciated the guide’s friendliness and humor, which made tasting a lot of sake seem less intimidating and more enjoyable.

Many mention that the tasting is a perfect starter for beginners or a fine deep dive for enthusiasts. Several use words like “fantastic,” “wonderful,” and “highly recommend,” emphasizing its popularity and quality.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early due to its popularity.
• Arrive on time at the meeting point in Shinjuku for smooth check-in.
• Have lunch beforehand — some reviewers say it’s easy to get carried away tasting sake, so a full stomach helps.
• Wear comfortable clothing, as it’s a seated activity with some standing or walking involved.
• Be prepared to ask questions — this is a true interactive learning experience.
• Keep your pamphlet as a reference; many find it helpful for future sake shopping.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a curious traveler wanting to understand Japan’s favorite beverage, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suited for those who prefer learning in a relaxed setting rather than a party atmosphere. Sake lovers, both novice and seasoned, will appreciate the wide variety of tastings and expert insights. First-timers will find it accessible, while seasoned drinkers will enjoy discovering new, exclusive varieties.

It’s also an excellent activity for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want to connect over a shared interest. Given the number of positive reviews, it’s clear that this experience appeals to a diverse audience—from those seeking a cultural deep dive to those simply wanting to enjoy a memorable taste of Japan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tasting session lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to savor each sake and ask questions.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the sake bar inside the Isetan Shinjuku Store, a central and easy-to-reach location in Tokyo’s busy Shinjuku district.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tasting of 67 different sakes, educational explanations, and a pamphlet for future reference.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how approachable and informative the guide is, making it perfect for those new to sake.

Can I learn to read sake labels?
Yes. Aki explains what the labels mean, helping you make smarter choices when buying sake later.

Are there any exclusive sakes?
Yes, some sakes available during the tour are only obtainable in Japan, offering a unique tasting experience.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
Just arrive ready to learn and taste. No special preparation is needed, but arriving on an empty stomach helps you appreciate the flavors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. After that, refunds aren’t available.

In sum, this sake tasting tour offers a delightful blend of education, authentic flavors, and expert guidance—all in a convenient Tokyo location. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of Japanese culture and enjoy a memorable, flavorful journey through sake. Whether you’re a first-timer or an enthusiast, you’ll walk away with new knowledge, a few favorites, and stories to share.