For those who love sake and want to experience Japan beyond the usual tourist routes, an incredible opportunity awaits. Imagine brewing your own sake under the guidance of a master brewer, staying overnight at a historic shrine, and indulging in exquisite Japanese cuisine—all while traveling in style aboard the luxurious Spacia X Cockpit Lounge.
This one-of-a-kind experience, set in the stunning natural landscapes of Kanuma City, Tochigi Prefecture, allows visitors to dive deep into Japan’s rich cultural traditions while surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Discover the Beauty of Kanuma and Furumine Shrine
Nestled at the southern foot of the Nikko Mountain Range, Kanuma is known as "Mizu to Midori no Sato" (the Village of Water and Greenery). This picturesque region is home to lush forests, crystal-clear streams, and sacred mountains that have long been a source of inspiration for artisans and brewers alike.
At the heart of this experience is Furumine Shrine, also known as the Tengu Shrine, famous for its deep spiritual history and tranquil surroundings. Here, you will have the rare opportunity to participate in a temple stay (Shukubo), a unique lodging experience where you can take part in traditional prayers, morning rituals, and a purification ceremony—a deeply moving way to connect with Japan’s spiritual heritage.
Master the Craft of Sake Brewing at Kobayashi Brewery
The highlight of the journey is an immersive, hands-on sake brewing experience at the prestigious Kobayashi Brewery. Under the guidance of an expert brewmaster, you’ll learn the intricate techniques that go into making high-quality sake, from collecting sacred water at Furumine Shrine to the meticulous rice washing, steaming, and fermentation processes.
For those traveling in a group, there is even an option for customized sake brewing, allowing you to create your own unique batch of sake to commemorate this extraordinary experience.
Indulge in Exquisite Cuisine and Japanese Traditions
A sake journey wouldn’t be complete without pairing it with exceptional food. During your stay at Furumine Shrine, you will be treated to a traditional offering meal, prepared by a skilled chef whose expertise was honed at a renowned Ginza restaurant. If you're looking for something even more special, an exclusive sushi course featuring hand-selected ingredients and beautiful tableware is also available.
The experience extends beyond food and drink. At Kohou-en, you’ll participate in an authentic matcha tea ceremony, where you can savor the refined flavors of Japanese green tea in a serene setting.
Travel in Style Aboard the Spacia X Cockpit Lounge
Your journey begins and ends in Asakusa, one of Tokyo’s most vibrant cultural districts. From there, you’ll board the Tobu Railway Limited Express Spacia X Cockpit Lounge, a luxurious train that offers a comfortable and stylish ride through the scenic countryside. This exclusive setting sets the perfect tone for an elegant and unforgettable adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
07:50 AM – Depart from Asakusa Station aboard the Spacia X Cockpit Lounge, enjoying a comfortable and scenic ride.09:17 AM – Arrive at Shin-Kanuma Station and transfer to Furumine Shrine by large taxi.10:10 AM – 1:30 PM – Arrive at Furumine Shrine.
Learn about the history of Furumine Shrine, its connection to Nikko, and the sake brewing traditions of Kanuma.
Participate in a sacred water collection ritual for sake brewing.
Enjoy a traditional offering meal for lunch at the shrine.
Experience a matcha tea ceremony at Kohou-en, a tranquil tea house surrounded by nature.
3:00 PM – 4:50 PM – Travel to Kobayashi Brewery for an in-depth sake brewing experience.
Attend a lecture by the brewmaster, who will explain the sake brewing process.
Begin the hands-on process by washing the rice and preparing the ingredients for brewing.
6:10 PM – Return to Furumine Shrine for dinner and accommodation.
Dinner will feature a traditional offering meal at 6:30 PM.
Engage in a discussion session with the brewery owner, either during or after dinner.
Stay overnight at the shrine and experience Okomori, an overnight training at a sacred temple.
Optional: Upgrade your dinner with a special sushi course for an additional fee.
Day 2
09:00 AM – Begin the day with a morning prayer ceremony at Furumine Shrine.
After the spiritual experience, head back to Kobayashi Brewery to resume sake brewing.
10:00 AM – 12:20 PM – Continue the sake-making process, including steaming and stirring the rice, learning fermentation techniques, and finalizing the production steps.
1:10 PM – 2:10 PM – Enjoy lunch at either Kobayashi Brewery or Kikusuien, featuring locally sourced Kanuma ingredients.
The meal is prepared by a medicinal herb therapist chef known for his expertise in balancing health and flavor.
2:40 PM – 3:20 PM – Experience the art of Kanuma Kumiko, a traditional Japanese woodcraft.
Participants will create intricate wooden patterns using this centuries-old technique.
Note: On weekends and public holidays, this experience takes place at the exhibition hall instead of the workshop, which may require an additional travel fee.
3:50 PM – 5:00 PM – Visit Kaboku Center or Fukuda Gardening for a hands-on bonsai experience and guided tour.
5:18 PM – Depart from Shin-Kanuma Station aboard the Spacia X.
Standard seats are included, but the Cockpit Lounge can be arranged upon request.
6:45 PM – Arrive back at Asakusa Station, marking the end of an unforgettable journey.
How to Book This Exclusive Experience
This one-night, two-day sake brewing tour is a made-to-order experience, ensuring a personalized and intimate journey. For inquiries regarding travel costs and availability, please contact:
📍 Tobu Nikko Station Tourist Center
📞 Phone: +81-288-54-0864
📩 Email: nikko_tc@tobutoptours.co.jp
If you’re looking for an authentic cultural immersion that blends Japan’s spiritual traditions, master craftsmanship, and culinary excellence, this sake brewing experience in Kanuma is a journey you won’t want to miss.
Would you embark on this unforgettable adventure? Let us know in the comments!