Visit Nara

Although the Miwa area is said to be the origin of sake brewing in Japan, Imanishi Sake Brewery is the last remaining brewery in the area. After over 350 years, it is still run by the same family. The brewery uses spring water from Mt. Miwa and local rice to make their sake. The current building was constructed 120 years ago and retains its traditional atmosphere. Some of the staff speak a little English, and can guide you through a tasting and tour. They can take groups from two people to 50. It’s a good idea to call ahead, as they can get very busy in the peak sake production season. Between October and March, you may not be able to visit the brewing area, but you can still do a tasting and learn about the different sake varieties. The brewery also makes its own narazuke pickles, which go well with sake; you can even try sake ice cream in summer.