Taketsuru Sake Brewery Co., Ltd.

Taketsuru Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. operates from Takehara City in Hiroshima Prefecture, established in 1733 and representing nearly three centuries of traditional Japanese sake production. The brewery belongs to one of Japan's most prestigious sake-making families, with Masataka Taketsuru, the founder of Japanese whisky, being a descendant of this lineage before he revolutionized whisky production at Nikka Whisky.

The brewery holds significant cultural importance as a living testament to traditional Japanese brewing techniques passed down through 15 generations of the Taketsuru family. Located in Takehara's historic district, designated as a Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, the facility contributes to the area's reputation as "Little Kyoto of Aki Province." The brewery produces premium sake using local Hiroshima rice and water from the nearby Noro River, maintaining traditional methods while incorporating modern quality control.

Visitors can participate in guided brewery tours that showcase the sake-making process from rice polishing to fermentation and aging. The experience includes tastings of multiple sake varieties, explanations of brewing techniques, and visits to traditional wooden fermentation tanks. A small museum displays historical brewing equipment and family artifacts, while the on-site shop offers exclusive sake varieties available only at the brewery.

The optimal visiting period spans October through March during the active brewing season when fermentation processes are visible and the facility operates at full capacity. Spring visits coincide with cherry blossom season in Takehara's historic streets, while summer months offer fewer brewing activities but maintain regular tours and tastings.

Takehara Station on the JR Kure Line provides the nearest rail access, located 15 minutes by bus or taxi from the brewery. Direct buses run from Hiroshima Station in approximately 90 minutes. Tours operate Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with admission fees of ¥500 for adults including tastings. Reservations are recommended, particularly during peak seasons, and can be made through the brewery's website or local tourism offices.