Sakagura

Imanishi Seibei Shoten

今 西 清 兵 衛 商 店

A historic brewery in the birth place of sake.

Brief history of Imanishi Seibei Shoten

Sakagura Imanishi Seibei Shoten is a famous sake brewery in Nara that incorporates the name of Nara’s specialty, “deer.” Nara, the first international city in Japan, is said to be the birthplace of sake. The Imanishi family started the sake brewing business in this area about 140 years ago. The brewery is located in Nara Town, which is close to world heritage sites such as Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Todai-ji Temple, preserving the old-fashioned atmosphere.

The origin of the brand “Harushika” comes from the legend that the deities of Kasuga came to Nara riding on deer. It was initially named “Kasuga Shinroku” and later changed to “Harushika” (meaning “Spring Deer”) to this day. The Imanishi family carefully polishes selected raw rice to a high degree of refinement, creating a sake with a light and mellow taste, a smooth mouthfeel, and a refreshing flavor. These products are not only enjoyed in Japan but are also exported to over a dozen countries worldwide, including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, and Hong Kong, enhancing people’s enjoyable evenings. Nara sake, boasting advanced technology and high quality in taste, richness, and aroma, continues to uphold the unchanging attitude of preserving the tradition of Nanto Morohaku since the founding of Harushika.

Awards Recieved 2024

Sake Discovery Special

An inside look

Imanishi Seibei Shoten offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes facility tour, a unique experience not typically offered in traditional brewery tours. During the tour, you’ll gain insights into the brewery’s rich history and learn about the intricate sake-making process.

Premium Sake Tasting

During this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to savor 6 distinct varieties of premium sake. These selections include the highly sought-after Daiginjou—a favorite among sake enthusiasts.

Special Tasting Room

Indulge in the exquisite experience of premium sake tasting within the exclusive confines of Sakagura Imanishi Seibei Shoten’s private tasting room.

Tour Options

Standard Tour | Premium Tour

*Prices displayed in this page are tax included.

Standard Tour

 

¥30,000 / person


Sakagura Tour

An exclusive behind-the-scene sakagura tour.

Premium Sake Tasting

6 types of premium sakes including popular Daiginjou.

Special Gift

2 Imanishi Seibei Shoten original sake cups per guest.

Tour Detail

Price

¥30,000 / person

Duration

90 minutes

Interpreter

Available

Capacity

2-10 people

Tour Type

Private

Dates

Weekday morning

※The brewery is closed between December 30th 2023 and January 4th 2024

※The images displayed may differ from the actual images you see on the tours.

Premium Tour


Coming Soon

Sakagura Access

〒630-8301 Nara Ken Nara Shi Fukuchii Cho 24-1

From JR Nara station

Approximately 10 minute by taxi.
Approximately 26 minute on foot.

From Kintetsu Nara station
Approximately 5 minutes by taxi.
Approximately 18 minute on foot.

How is Sake made?

Let’s learn about Sake before the tour!

Ever wonder how Sake is made? How many steps do you think there are to make Sake?

These brewery tours are temporarily unavailable due to unforeseen circumstances.

SAKE DISCOVERY CONCIERGE

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