Myoko – Joetsu Evening Tour

*Private tour can be arranged upon request

We will some of the locations below. These may be changed due to circumstances on the day. 

Pick up times and locations

(13:50 – Ikenotaira – Ikenotaira Tourist Office bus stop )

14:00 – Akakura Onsen – main bus terminal

Famous traditional local sake brewery

Visit a famous local sake brewery that has continued in it’s traditional brewing methods since it’s establishment over 180 years ago in 1842. See the amazing building that is over 100 years old and see the beams that support it in the heavy snow season. See the pots and steam pans still used today and learn how the sake is produced. You will also be able to sample some of the recommended sake and purchase your favourite kind in the breweries shop.

Sake samples are free of charge.

Iwanohara Vineyard

Founded in 1890 by Zenbei Kawakami, often referred to as "the father of Japanese wine grapes," this winery has been a beacon of viticultural excellence for over 125 years.

Zenbei Kawakami's vision went far beyond cultivating grapes. Through an extraordinary commitment to agricultural research, he conducted over 10,311 crossbreeding experiments, ultimately introducing 22 high-quality grape varieties to the world. His most notable achievement, the Muscat Bailey A grape, has since gained international recognition and is enjoyed by wine enthusiasts globally.

Zen Experience

Try a traditional zen experience in one of the local temples in Joetsu. Learn how to properly enter the temple and meditate from the temple's priest. This is a special chance to try this unique cultural experience. You can also fully observe a traditional functioning temple and ask questions to the priest.

Tea ceremony experience (optional)

You can experience tea ceremony at a traditional Japanese room (in kimono as an option) with a tea ceremony instructor of Omote-senke tea school.

Kimono Experience (optional)

You can try on a Japanese kimono. You can also walk around outside wearing it and take photographs.

Takada area, dining, shopping & culture

Learn about some of the history of the Takeda area and see the remaining watch tower of the old castle. Explore some of the local traditional shops on the famous Honcho shopping street and then head off to dine at any of the 100 or more local restaurants in the nearby area. You can explore and find your own place to eat and drink or we can book you in for a special meal.

You can try Japanese course dining at the famous Ryotei Ukiyo, a traditional Japanese style guest house or you can try some delicious sushi at the well known Tomizushi restaurant.

We will also provide you with our custom dining map with pins for places recommended by locals so you can explore and find your own place to eat with friends.

Drop off times and locations

19:30 – Akakura Onsen – main bus terminal
19:40 – Ikenotaira – Ikenotaira Tourist Office bus stop

Transport from Myoko to our destinations and back again.

A sample drink at the brewery

Dinning costs and extra drinks at the brewery.