The World is Discovering Japan's Best-Kept Secret. Join the Journey.
An immersive exploration into Kuma Shochu, the spirit beloved by world-class chefs, bartenders, and celebrities. Your deep dive into the valley of tradition begins here.
Why Kuma Shochu? The Spirit That’s Turning Heads
Kuma Shochu isn't just a drink; it's a testament to centuries of Japanese craftsmanship. As the first spirit in Japan to receive geographical indication (GI) status—like Champagne or Cognac—it's gaining popularity among tastemakers worldwide. Chefs are now pairing it with their most innovative dishes, and bartenders are creating complex, award-winning cocktails with its unique flavor profile. This is your chance to get ahead of the curve and discover why this spirit is captivating the culinary world.
- GI-Protected Excellence — A world-class spirit with the same prestigious designation as fine wines and liquors.
- Celebrity & Chef Endorsement — Gain an appreciation for the spirit favored by discerning palates in the global food and beverage industry.
- Unrivaled Terroir — Experience the unique taste of shochu born from the pure water of the Kuma River and the rich volcanic soil of the valley.
The Heart of the Kuma Valley
Your journey takes you to the Kuma Valley, a region where time-honored traditions thrive. For 500 years, the mighty Sagara Clan ruled this land, protecting its pristine nature and cultivating a culture deeply connected to its spirits. The pure, soft water of the Kuma River and the fertile land are not just a backdrop—they are the soul of Kuma Shochu. You will feel this history in every sip, every meal, and every quiet moment by the river.
Guided by an Authority: Christopher Pellegrini
Your exploration is led by Christopher Pellegrini, a globally recognized expert, author of The Shochu Handbook, and one of the few non-Japanese individuals certified as both a Shochu Kikisakeshi and a Shochu Advisor. His passion is infectious, and his deep knowledge will unlock the intricate history and production methods of Kuma Shochu. With Christopher as your guide, you're not just taking a tour; you're gaining an education from an insider who has dedicated his life to this spirit.
Choose Your Journey
Whether you want a complete, comprehensive deep dive or a curated taste of the region, we have an experience designed for you.
The Spirit of Kuma — 3 Nights / 4 Days
This is our premier tour, offering unprecedented access and hands-on experiences. You'll participate in the brewing process, blend your own shochu, and enjoy exclusive tastings led by Christopher Pellegrini. This is for those who want to truly understand shochu from the inside out.
Itinerary Highlights
- Day 1: The Foundations of Kuma Shochu — Private arrival transfer. Hitoyoshi shochu walking tour (e.g., Jufuku, Sengetsu). Exclusive tasting in Sengetsu’s aging room. Shochu pairing dinner at Ayunosato.
- Day 2: The Art & Science of Shochu — Hands-on Niji Shikomi at Nasu Distillery. French pairing lunch at Tranquille. Blending at Hayashi Distillery. Rare hanatare tasting. Shochu cocktail school & robata-yaki dinner.
- Day 3: The Fabric of Hitoyoshi & A Culinary Journey — Visits to miso/shoyu maker & tea shop. Kumagawa Kudari floating BBQ with local jibie & shochu. Cooking class with Chef Secchan on fermented seasonings & pairing dishes.
- Day 4: Farewell & The Final Selection — Shochu shopping at Ichigoya and private departure transfer.
Curated Individual Tours
Perfect for those with less time, these tours offer a taste of our full itinerary's most popular experiences. Mix and match to create your perfect day.
Kuma Shochu Discovery Walking Tour
A guided stroll through Hitoyoshi's historic streets, visiting distilleries for an introductory tasting. This tour is perfect for a quick, yet informative, taste of the region’s primary spirit.
- Guided walk with a shochu expert.
- Visit a small, hands-on distillery.
- Taste a variety of shochu styles and learn about drinking methods.
- Explore the history of the Sagara Clan and Hitoyoshi Castle ruins.
- Tasting in premium aging rooms not open to the public.
Duration: ~3 hours | Price: ¥25,000 / person
Inclusions: Tastings at 2 distilleries (Meiji-era and global producer), foot onsen, guide.
Kuma Valley Private Distillery Tour
Embark on a personalized journey through the heart of the Kuma Valley in the comfort of your private car, exploring hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path distilleries. This tour offers an in-depth look at the region's oldest shochu traditions and a taste of its celebrated seasonal cuisine.
- Visit the oldest shochu distillery in the region (Edo era, 350+ years).
- Witness traditional, handmade production techniques.
- Seasonal lunch at a local restaurant.
- Exclusive opportunity (seasonal) to participate in the brewing process.
Duration: ~7 hours | Price: ¥35,000 / person (Ayunosato guest discounts available)
Inclusions: Tastings at 2 distilleries (Edo-era and handmade producer), participation in the brewing process (subject to availability), lunch at a local restaurant featuring seasonal Kuma Valley cuisine, private car hire with driver, English-speaking guide.
Joryu (Distillation & Retreat) Tour
Experience the unique "Jouryuu" concept—symbolizing both the art of distillation and the river's source—in the comfort of your private vehicle. Visit the oldest shochu brewery from the Edo period, enjoy two tastings, and craft your own barrel-aged shochu as a unique souvenir. Unwind at Ichifusa Kanko Hotel with hot springs and a gourmet dinner pairing local delicacies with Kuma Shochu.
- Visit the oldest shochu brewery from the Edo period.
- Two exclusive shochu tastings.
- Craft your own barrel-aged shochu.
- Relax in the hot springs at Ichifusa Kanko Hotel.
- Savor a gourmet dinner featuring local delicacies paired with Kuma Shochu.
Duration: 7 hours + overnight | Participants: 2–8
Price: ¥53,000 / person (Ayunosato guest discounts available)
Inclusions: Tastings at two Edo-era distilleries, a shochu blending experience, lunch at a traditional restaurant along the Kuma River, accommodation at Ichifusa Kanko Hotel (two people/room), private car with driver & guide, and a multi-course dinner at Ichifusa Kanko Hotel.
