About
Traditional sake brewery building with Mt. Fuji backdrop, courtesy of Visit Greater Tokyo Area
Ide Sake Brewery stands as the sole sake producer in the Fuji Five Lakes region, representing an unbroken 21-generation family tradition dating back to the mid-Edo period. Originally established as a soy sauce and miso brewery around 1700, the facility transitioned to sake production in 1850 when the 16th generation owner recognized the exceptional potential of Mt. Fuji's pure spring water.
Located at 850 meters above sea level, the brewery benefits from ideal brewing conditions: cool mountain climate and abundant spring water from Mt. Fuji at 1,100 meters elevation. These natural advantages, combined with traditional kan-zukuri (cold-weather brewing) methods, produce the brewery's signature Kai no Kaiun sake. 🔗
Cultural & Historical Significance
The brewery represents 21 generations of continuous family operation, demonstrating exceptional cultural continuity in traditional Japanese craftsmanship. The facility encompasses traditional Edo-period architecture, including the original family residence and a 300-year-old Japanese garden, providing authentic glimpses into historic Japanese brewery culture.
In 2020, the brewery expanded into whiskey production under the Daijukai brand, demonstrating how traditional methods adapt to modern craftsmanship while maintaining core cultural values. 🔗
Visiting Information
Operating Hours:
- Shop: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM / 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
- Tasting Booth: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM / 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM (no reservations required)
- Guided Tours: ¥1,500 for high school students and above (twice daily at 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM)
Access:
- From Kawaguchiko Station: 7-minute walk northwest toward Lake Kawaguchi
- Distance: Approximately 550 meters southeast of Kawaguchiko Station
- Public Transit: Accessible via JR Chuo Line to Otsuki, then Fujikyu Railway
Reservations: Essential for English tours; call by 4:00 PM the day before (TEL. 0555-72-0006) 🔗
The Experience
The comprehensive brewery experience includes guided tours through all production facilities, observing traditional brewing processes and equipment used for 21 generations. Tours cover steamed rice preparation, koji cultivation, fermentation tanks, and traditional cold-weather brewing techniques that make Kawaguchiko ideal for sake production.
Following the production tour, visitors explore the historic Edo-period family residence and 300-year-old traditional Japanese garden. The experience concludes with guided sake tasting featuring multiple varieties including signature Kai no Kaiun sake, plum wine, and new whiskey offerings, with detailed explanations of flavor profiles and brewing techniques.
Visitors receive a commemorative tasting glass and can create custom handwritten labels for purchased bottles. Additional tastings are available via token system (¥550 per selection). 🔗
October Seasonal Significance
October marks the beginning of traditional sake brewing season (kan-zukuri), making this timing ideal for witnessing preparation activities and understanding seasonal production cycles. The cooler autumn temperatures demonstrate why this elevation and climate are perfect for sake production.
October 2025 visit considerations:
- Autumn temperatures average 10-15°C (50-59°F) with potential for cool mornings
- The brewery's 850-meter elevation may feel cooler than lake level
- Traditional brewing season preparation provides unique insights into seasonal cycles
- Clear autumn air enhances Mt. Fuji viewing opportunities from the brewery 🔗
Practical Visiting Tips
Optimal Experience Strategy:
- Book 9:30 AM tour for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography
- Basic sake tasting (¥300) provides good value; full tour (¥1,500) includes comprehensive education
- Traditional garden with Edo-period architecture offers excellent photo opportunities
- Respect photography restrictions during production tours
Cultural Etiquette:
- Listen attentively to explanations of traditional methods
- Show appreciation for the family's 21-generation heritage
- Handle commemorative tasting glass with care
- Ask permission before photographing production areas
Purchase Recommendations: Signature Kai no Kaiun sake makes excellent souvenir, especially with custom labeling. New whiskey offerings represent innovative expansion of traditional methods. 🔗
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/fujikawaguchiko/ide-sake-brewery.md