For international visitors to Japan, sake is more than just a beverage. It represents an opportunity to taste Japanese culture itself. Recently, we had the pleasure of hosting guests from Denmark for a sake tasting experience at our first-floor café & bar. Allow us to share this heartwarming moment of cultural exchange.
Cross-Border Interest in Japanese Sake
Interest in Japanese sake has been growing overseas, particularly through “sake brewery tourism,” which offers cultural experiences that go beyond simple sightseeing. According to data, 30.2% of foreign tourists expect to drink Japanese sake before visiting Japan, while 45.8% actually experience it during their stay.
Our guests from Denmark also showed great interest in Japanese sake. For us, it was a precious opportunity to share Japan’s traditional culture. Therefore, we proposed a game-style sake tasting experience to make it even more enjoyable for them.
International Exchange Through Sake Tasting Games
We suggested a game-format sake tasting experience. First, we had our guests try one particular Japanese sake. Then, they tasted three different sakes and tried to identify which one was the same as the first one they had tasted.
Our guests participated earnestly and with great enjoyment. As they savored each sake, our conversations became more animated and lively.
For Westerners, the delicate and diverse flavors of Japanese sake offer fresh surprises. We were impressed by how seriously and enthusiastically they tried to appreciate each unique characteristic.
The Appeal of Local Sake ～Nakatsugawa’s Breweries～
The local sakes we serve at our inn are premium brands from proud breweries in the Nakatsugawa region. Each brewery has its own distinctive character and brewing philosophy.
Hazama Shuzo, which brews “Enasan,” is known as a junmai brewery that uses underground water from Mount Ena. Meanwhile, Ena Jozo, which produces “Kujiranami,” dedicates itself to sake brewing at an altitude of 600 meters in the deep mountains, working alongside clear, pure water.
“Sweet Sake is the Best!” ～Our Guests’ Discovery～
Throughout the tasting process, our guests shared various impressions. Using English expressions like “Sharp” and “Sweetness,” they were able to enjoy the diversity of Japanese sake.
In the end, what our guests liked most was the sweet sake. When they smiled and said, “Sweet sake is the best!” that expression still remains in my heart.
Local Sake Experience at Our First-Floor Café & Bar
At our first-floor café & bar, we offer a carefully selected variety of local sakes. Guests can enjoy premium brands lovingly crafted by local Nakatsugawa breweries in a relaxed atmosphere.
Like our guests from Denmark, seeing visitors discover new things and connect with Japanese culture through sake tasting experiences brings us tremendous joy.
A Cup of Sake That Connects Cultures
A single cup of sake becomes a bridge connecting people across differences in language and culture. Being able to witness such moments is our greatest happiness.
Please come and enjoy comparing local sakes at our first-floor café & bar. Experience the deliciousness of local sake and discover your personal favorite. You’re sure to feel the rich nature of Nakatsugawa and the warm hearts of the brewers through each sip.
For more glimpses of our wonderful sake tasting moments with guests from Denmark, please visit our Instagram page!