Welcome to the World of Japanese Sake

Sake is one of the most famous products in Snow Country which produces some of the best in the whole of Japan. Japanese visitors invariably pick up a bottle or two to take back with them as souvenirs of their trip and visitors from other countries often find themselves becoming fans once they have tried real sake.

Sake is a vast subject similar to fine wine in its complexity but no need to feel out of depth with this handy guide from the Japan Sake and Shochu Makers Association. They provide an easy to understand explanation of everything you need to know and explanation on how to get the most out of it.

Armed with your new-found knowledge you might be ready to tackle the Wall of Sake in Echigo Yuzawa Station where you can taste sakes from all over the region of all different types. There are normally some sheets in the back right hand corner in English that offer a guide to the labels and varieties.

Or if your interest is really piqued you can go on a tour of the Shirataki Sake Brewery.