#Japan #Tokyo #Sake Experience #byFood #TableCross

A Unique Journey into Japan’s Sake Culture

Tablecross Inc., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has partnered with Kobukubo Group to launch a premium sake brewery tour designed specifically for international tourists visiting Japan. This initiative is being made available on the byFood platform, a gourmet service catering to foreign visitors.

The concept of this new tour stems from a successful trial event held in November 2025 at the Tamura Sake Brewery, located in Fukusawa, Tokyo. This program aims to provide an enriching experience where participants can deeply engage with the intricacies of Japanese sake and the surrounding cultural heritage. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for immersive travel experiences that highlight local culture, making this sake tour a perfect fit for tourists interested in an authentic taste of Japan.

Background and Purpose

In 2025, the anticipated number of foreign visitors to Japan is projected to reach approximately 42.7 million, marking the first time annual arrivals supersede 40 million. Travel spending has also soared, reaching a record high of 9.5 trillion yen, indicating significant growth in Japan’s inbound tourism market. Among the various aspects of travel, food and cultural experiences are enjoying unparalleled growth, with tourists increasingly drawn to experiences that allow them to delve into local traditions.

Simultaneously, the international demand for Japanese sake is consistently rising, with exports expected to grow by 106% in 2024 compared to the previous year. This increase has sparked heightened interest in programs that foster a deeper understanding of sake through the exploration of local history and culture. This new program not only enriches visitors’ knowledge but also aims to broaden the market for sake enthusiasts around the globe.

Features of the Program

Unlike typical brewery tours, this experience, crafted through collaborative efforts with industry specialists in sake, craftsmanship, and culinary arts, offers a truly unique educational adventure aimed at intellectually curious visitors. The centerpiece of this tour is expertly curated storytelling facilitated by Iris Co., Ltd., which emphasizes not only the brewing process but also the spiritual and historical significance of sake, resonating with guests' cultures to enhance their appreciation and empathy towards Japanese traditions.

The Tamura Sake Brewery, established in 1822, boasts over 200 years of history. It is a designated cultural heritage site filled with the philosophy of careful brewing and sales passed down through generations. This setting allows guests to genuinely immerse themselves in Japan's sake culture.

Additionally, the renowned sushi chef from Nakameguro’s acclaimed restaurant, Sushi Udatatsu, will personally prepare a luxurious lunch paired with rare sake from the Tamura brewery, presenting a fusion of modern art and traditional Edomae sushi techniques. This culinary pairing is the epitome of exploring new values through the lens of sake and food.

Experience Contents

The “Premium Sake Brewery Experience” begins with various enriching activities, including:

• - A welcome ceremony conducted by the brewery owner.
• - A private tour detailing the brewery’s history and brewing processes.
• - A customized sake tasting according to participants’ preferences.
• - A luxurious lunch curated by Chef Udatatsu, perfectly paired with rare sake.
• - The opportunity to create and take home a custom-labeled sake bottle.

For those interested, the experience can be booked via the following link: Discover Your Sake Palate.

Future Prospects

Moving forward, Tablecross and Kobukubo Group plan to expand this initiative by collaborating with various breweries across the country. They aim to showcase the diverse cultural narratives and sake production stories unique to different regions, ultimately providing international travelers with new and exciting options for their journeys while promoting local food culture and decentralized tourism.

About byFood

byFood serves as a comprehensive platform for inbound travelers to Japan, offering food experiences, restaurant reservations, and food purchases from across the country. With a focus on English and multilingual support, byFood facilitates cultural immersion through culinary exploration, catering to tourists’ needs before and during their trips, with engaging content across platforms like their YouTube channel, 'Japan by Food'.

Website: byFood
YouTube: Japan by Food

Company Overview

• - Name: Tablecross Inc.
• - CEO: Kaoru Jouhou
• - Location: 5-27-5 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo, Link Square Shinjuku WeWork 16th Floor
• - Website: Tablecross

Join us on this unparalleled sake adventure, where you can taste, learn, and connect with Japan’s rich brewing heritage!