Kagawa｜A Paradise for Sake Lovers: The Fascinating Sake Museum in Kotohira Town

This visit was purely accidental. Seeing the sign for free admission at the entrance felt like an irresistible pull into the museum. Kotohira Town in Kagawa has been known for its excellent water for over 400 years, which led to the establishment of several sake breweries back then. The renowned Kinryo brand, however, was officially developed in 1789 when a scholar compared Kotohira to Nanjing, China, inspiring the creation of the Kinryo name. Over two centuries later, sake continues to play a vital role in the town's development. Located at the foot of Kotohira Shrine, this brewery also produces sacred sake for offerings. Inside the museum, a massive sake bottle pouring out endless streams of liquid serves as an impressive decorative piece to set the tone. The history section showcases 200-year-old brewery ledgers and life-sized models that recreate the entire sake-making process. The cultural section features centuries-old sake jars and cups, along with historical signs, sake labels, and the iconic sugidama (cedar balls) used by breweries, highlighting their evolution over time. After exploring the museum, visitors can head to the shop to purchase local sake. There's also an on-site tasting service where you can sample three types of sake for just 500 yen. Products made from sake lees, such as ice cream and pickles, ensure nothing goes to waste in the sake-making process. At the bar, you can even try sake-based cocktails, blending traditional sake with modern innovations. 📍Address: 〒766-0001 Kagawa Prefecture, Nakatado District, Kotohira Town 623 🚗 Access: A 10-minute walk from JR Kotohira Station or Kotoden Kotohira Station