Eigashima Sake Brewery
History of Eigashima Sake Brewery
The history of Ei-Kishima Distillery, established over 100 years ago, reflects a commitment to integrity and innovation in the liquor industry.
Located in Hyogo Prefecture, a region famous for its liquor production, the distillery began in the Edo period in the Nada area, known for its excellent water and quality rice.
It was founded by the second generation of the Urabe family, Urabe Hachibei, and later expanded by his descendant, Heikichi Urabe, who established Ei-Kishima Sake Brewery Co., Ltd. in 1888 with a capital of 30,000 yen.
Seven Wooden Storehouses of Eigashima Sake Brewery
The distillery, known for its seven unique wooden storehouses, each serving a different purpose, has been a pioneer in various aspects of liquor production.
It was the first to introduce one-litre bottles to prevent counterfeiting and ensure quality, revolutionizing the sake industry.
Under the leadership of Heikichi Urabe, the distillery expanded its offerings to include shochu, mirin, whiskey, brandy, and wine, constantly adapting to new market demands.
Journey Through Different Eras
Ei-Kishima Distillery’s journey through the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras involved overcoming challenges like wars and economic downturns.
It established a winery in Yamanashi in 1963, introducing Charmant wine, and later a distillery in Oita, producing traditional Oita barley shochu “Fukujutenzen.”
The company’s commitment to quality and trust has made it a significant contributor to the rich culture of alcoholic beverages in Japan.
Awards Won by Eigashima Sake Brewery
- IWSC 2020: Eigashima SHIN Select Reserve Whisky received a Bronze Medal
- Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition 2020: Eigashima Shuzo’s Blended Eigashima Sherry Cask Finish (world whisky) was awarded the Bronze medal.
- San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021: Eigashima SHIN Select Reserve Whisky received a Double Gold Medal
- World Whisky Awards in 2022: Eigashima SHIN Select Reserve Whisky received a Bronze medal.
- Tokyo Whisky and Spirits Competition 2023: Eigashima Sextet won the gold medal.
Eigashima Sake Brewery Tour Information and Experience
The tours are conducted on an irregular basis, approximately once a week, and are available by reservation only. Interested visitors can book their tour through an online reservation form or by phone.
Key details of the tour include:
Duration: The tour lasts for about 1.5 hours.
Schedule: Tours are held in the afternoon, starting at 2 PM.
Capacity: The tour can accommodate around 10 people, but this number can be adjusted upon consultation.
Cost: The tour and tasting are free of charge, although there may be a fee for tasting certain products.
Guide: The tour includes a guide to lead visitors through the brewery.
Parking: Parking facilities are available for visitors.
During the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to explore both the sake brewery and the distillery, gaining insights into the intricate processes of brewing and distilling.
It’s important to note that smoking is prohibited on the premises, and those who plan to drive are reminded that drinking is strictly forbidden.
This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of traditional Japanese sake brewing, making it an ideal experience for enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.
Flask & Barrel Review of Eigashima Sake Brewery
I’ve got to say, my recent visit to Eigashima Sake Brewery was pretty impressive. The place gets a solid 4.7 out of 5 from me, and here’s why.
First off, let’s talk about the setting. Tucked away in a charming spot that blends tradition with a touch of modern flair, Eigashima has an ambiance that’s both inviting and intriguing. It’s not every day you find a place that so beautifully marries its rich history with present-day vibes.
The tour itself was a standout experience. Having been on numerous distillery tours, I could tell that Eigashima has put a lot of thought into making their tours informative yet engaging.
The guide was knowledgeable and had a knack for storytelling that kept me hooked. I mean, it’s not just about seeing barrels and stills, right? It’s about the stories, the process, the passion – and Eigashima nailed it.
Now, onto the main event – the whiskey. As a collector, I’ve tasted my way through countless varieties, but Eigashima’s offerings were something else. Each sample was a testament to their craftsmanship.
The balance of flavors, the smooth finish, the way each sip seemed to tell a story of its own – it was an experience in itself.
But what’s a great tour without a little learning? I appreciated the deep dive into their sake-making process too. It’s fascinating to see how the worlds of sake and whiskey intertwine here, each enriching the other in unexpected ways.
My only quibble, and the reason for the 0.3 deduction, was the size of the tasting portions. A wee bit more generosity would have gone a long way, especially for enthusiasts like me who live for the details in each sip.
What To Do Nearby Eigashima Sake Brewery
- Akashi Municipal Planetarium: This observatory and planetarium is a significant attraction in Akashi, providing educational and entertaining insights into astronomy.
- Akashi Park: A beautiful park that offers a serene environment for relaxation and leisure. It is one of the top outdoor activities in Akashi and a popular spot among families.
- Amore Beach and Matsue Swimming Beach: These beaches are ideal for those who enjoy the seaside. Amore Beach, in particular, is known for its scenic views and is a popular choice for families.
- Ruins of Akashi Castle: Historic ruins that serve as a reminder of Japan’s rich history. This site is a blend of historic significance and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile visit for history enthusiasts and families.
- Akashi Culture Museum and Eigashima Brewery: For those interested in local culture and history, these speciality museums offer a deep dive into the region’s heritage and traditions.
- Kakimoto Shrine: A religious site that provides a peaceful and spiritual experience. It’s a place of tranquility and cultural significance.
- Akashi Tocalo Stadium: For sports enthusiasts, this stadium could be an interesting visit, offering a glimpse into local sports culture.
- Outdoor Activities: Besides the beaches, Akashi offers outdoor activities like cycling on Hama no Sampomichi Cycling Road and other leisure activities at places like Zazaza.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Eigashima Sake Brewery?
- Asian Dining Agan: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81789473111. Their address is 1-chome-1-9 Uozumicho Sumiyoshi, Akashi, Hyogo 674-0083, Japan.
- フロッグ蛙 (frog frog): It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81789478050. Their address is 810-8 Okubocho, Akashi, Hyogo 674-0065, Japan.
- Kanetsugu: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81787795933. Their address is Akashi, Hyogo 674-0065, Japan.
What hotels are near Eigashima Sake Brewery?
- Hotel Prefort: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81789408025. Their address is Japan, 〒673-0005 Hyogo, Akashi, Kokubo, 2-chome−６−10.
- ホテル Ｄ－ＣＵＢＥ: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81789467676. Their address is ４２４−１, Akashi, Hyogo 674-0082, Japan.
- Hotel Castle Plaza: It has a rating of 3.5 stars on Google Maps.
For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +81789271111. Their address is 2-chome-2 Matsunouchi, Akashi, Hyogo 673-0016, Japan.