Houmei Sake Brewery

Houmei Sake Brewery (鳳鳴酒造) is located in the historic castle town of Tamba-Sasayama. Houmei Sake is a long-established brewery dating back to 1797. Set within the charming Gofukumachi district (Sasayama Castle area), the brewery’s traditional wooden buildings and storehouses offer a glimpse into Japan’s Edo-period sake culture, making it a natural stop while exploring the town’s preserved streets.

When you enter, it just looks like a small sake shop but head out the back and you can explore the brewery’s museum area, where traditional tools and brewing equipment are displayed alongside explanations of the sake-making process. One of Houmei’s unique features is its use of music during fermentation—classical pieces are played to influence the flavour of the sake, adding an interesting modern twist to centuries-old techniques.

The Horoyoi Jokagura space is open to the public and includes a tasting area and shop, where you can sample and purchase locally brewed sake. With its relaxed atmosphere and central location, Houmei Sake Brewery is a surprise gem and rewarding stop for anyone interested in Japanese culture, history, or regional flavours.