Factory / Workshop Spots in Japan

Area

Japan
- Japan
- Hokkaido / Tohoku
  
  Hokkaido
  
  Aomori
  
  Iwate
  
  Miyagi
  
  Akita
  
  Yamagata
  
  Fukushima
- Kanto
  
  Ibaraki
  
  Tochigi
  
  Gunma
  
  Saitama
  
  Chiba
  
  Tokyo
  
  Kanagawa
- Koshinetsu / Hokuriku
  
  Niigata
  
  Toyama
  
  Ishikawa
  
  Fukui
  
  Yamanashi
  
  Nagano
- Tokai
  
  Gifu
  
  Shizuoka
  
  Aichi
  
  Mie
- Kinki
  
  Shiga
  
  Kyoto
  
  Osaka
  
  Hyogo
  
  Nara
  
  Wakayama
- Chugoku
  
  Tottori
  
  Shimane
  
  Okayama
  
  Hiroshima
  
  Yamaguchi
- Shikoku
  
  Tokushima
  
  Kagawa
  
  Ehime
  
  Kochi
- Kyushu / Okinawa
  
  Fukuoka
  
  Saga
  
  Nagasaki
  
  Kumamoto
  
  Oita
  
  Miyazaki
  
  Kagoshima
  
  Okinawa

Category

Travel / Tourism

Factory / Workshop

Sapporo Beer Museum

4.0

1251 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Sapporoshi Higashi-ku Kitashichijouhigashi 9-1-1

Sapporo Beer Museum, located to the east of Sapporo Station, is the only museum in Japan where you can learn about the history of Japanese beer. Admission to the museum is free, but the paid tour (about 50 minutes) is recommended if you have the time. You can learn about the history of Sapporo Beer with the powerful 6K wide-screen theater and easy-to-understand guide. Also you can only sample the “Fukkokuban Sapporo-sei Bakushu” (Reproduced Sapporo Beer) that recreates the flavor at the time of Sapporo Beer's establishment as well as the iconic Black Label Sapporo Beer on the paid tour. Reservations through the website are required.

This old Sapporo beer facility is like 70% a historical site, 30% a museum. The place tells a somewhat interesting story on how the Japanese started brewing beer in Hokkaido, showcases some...
Nikka Whisky Hokkaido Factory Yoichi Distillery

4.5

1281 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Yoichigunyoichichou Kurokawachou 7-6

The first Nikka Whisky distillery built in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru who after visiting Scotland became the first Japanese person to master the whisky manufacturing process. Here you can come and see for yourself the whole distillery process. Inside the distillery you can find many things of interest such as displays on the history of whisky and its manufacturing process, a whisky museum where you can sample some whisky for yourself, and you can also see the former residence of Masataka Taketsuru which was originally in Yamada Town in the suburbs of Yoichi Town but dismantled and rebuilt here in the distillery. There are nine buildings on the distillery premises which have been designated as tangible cultural assets of Japan such as the distillation building and the first whisky storehouse.

As a fan of the products and being in the neighborhood, I went for a visit to this complex. I was unable to book a tour of the facility, which I understand are only conducted in Japanese, but did...
Yamazaki Whisky Museum

4.5

492 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Osaka Mishimagunshimamotochou Yamazaki 5-2-1

The Suntory Yamazaki Distillery is located a 10-minute walk from JR Yamazaki Station. Japan's first malt whisky distillery, it was built in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii and went into operation that same year. Visitors who make reservations can take a tour of the Yamazaki Whisky Museum, where they learn about the history of Suntory Whisky and learn about the care that Suntory takes in the distillation process by viewing a miniature scale model and other exhibits. At the paid tasting counter, visitors can sample any of several dozen varieties of whisky and even taste pure unmodified whisky from the keg, an experience available only at a distillery.

Amazing experience! Its super hard to get the reservation, but it is worthwhile. You will be amazed with the museum and history of suntory Whiskey. The tasting selection is great at a very...
Suntory Hakushu Distillery and Suntory Natural Mineral Water Minami Alps Hakushu Plant

4.5

363 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Yamanashi Hokuto-shi Hakushucho Torihara 2913-1

"This malt whiskey distillery, also known as the ""Forest Distillery"", is located in the foothills of the Southern Alps approximately 20 minutes by car from Kobuchizawa Interchange on the Chuo Expressway. On the grounds is the ""Whiskey Museum"" where visitors can learn about the history of the birth of the single malt whiskey ""Hakushu"", and the worldwide culture of whiskey. There is also a shop that offers goods limited to the distillery, as well as restaurants and bars featuring seasonal dishes made from local produce. There is no charge for admission but reservations (at least one day in advance) are required. A factory tour (including tasting) is also available (fees apply)."

I love whisky distilleries and this one did not disappoint (except for one thing, to be mentioned below). The location was breathtaking, in the Japanese Southern Alps, and the tour was fantastic...
Kirin Yokohama Beer Village

4.5

309 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Kanagawa Pref. Yokohamashi Tsurumi-ku Namamugi 1-17-1

This Kirin beer factory is located in Yokohama, the birthplace of the Japanese beer industry. Of all the Kirin beer factories in Japan, this one boasts the longest history. The factory's 80-minute tour is popular. Tour goers get to learn about the careful production process involved in Kirin Ichiban Shibori beer and the secrets behind its delicious flavor, as well as sample malt, taste and compare first press and second press beer wort, and enjoy other unique beer factory experiences. There's also a tour which explores the factory's vast biotope, and a factory tour during which participants can have fun answering quiz questions, making this an enjoyable destination for families as well.

A MUST visit while in Yokohama. We were not successful in registering for the beer factory tour before our travel. The staff were very accommodative in registering us for the 2pm slot. Not more than...
Kamaei (factory direct shop)

4.0

430 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Otarushi Sakaimachi 3-7

Kamaei is a long-standing kamaboko seasoned fish paste company founded in 1905. In addition to conventional kamaboko served on a wooden plank, Kamaei offers a wide variety of kamaboko products, including Shiokaze kamaboko formed by steaming it in a plastic film to shape it; kamaboko steamed with crab and other seafood on top; and Noshi Kamaboko, a terrine-like dish made by combining layers of kamaboko. The Kamaei plant offers factory tours as well as selling kamaboko direct to customers. There's also a cafe space where you can enjoy fresh-cooked kamaboko and unusual kamaboko dishes served no place else.

Big range of fish cakes from sweet, spicy and savoury. And it stayed fresh overnight too as we bought some to eat in our hotel room the next day and it was still delicious. There is also a souvenir...
Furano Cheese Workshop

4.0

214 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Furano Nakago-ku

The factory is a short drive from Furano station. Thete are chesse and ice cream making classes, try it.
Fuji TV Headquarters Building

Travel / Tourism

Tokyo Minato-ku Daiba 2-4-8

From this 100-meter high spherical observation tower, Hachitama, one can enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of the coastal area. Other limited time events are also hosted here. At the Fuji Television Gallery, on the fifth floor, one can tour and take photos of the replicated sets of aired programs and the wardrobes of various dramas. ※ The ongoing events calendar can be viewed on their website, https://www.fujitv.co.jp/gotofujitv/ . Located here is the only shop in Japan where one can purchase original Sazae-san program character goods.
Imayotsukasa Sake Brewery

4.5

169 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Nigata Pref. Nigatashi Chuou-ku Kagamigaoka 1-1

This well-established brewery was founded in 1764. It is located east of Niigata Station, along National Route 2, and is said to have been built on the site of a rice granary once owned by the Shibata clan. The current building was built at the end of the 19th century. The brewery is open to visitors all days of the week, and reservations are only necessary for groups of more than seven people. Tools used in the past to make sake are displayed here, and visitors can taste over ten kinds of pure rice wine. Thanks to the detailed explanations of the workers, even the most inexperienced can enjoy tasting the differences between the various types of sake. The brewery also offers non-alcoholic amazake for non-drinkers.

Well worth doing. The tour was great, very interesting and not too long. You might want to check when the English speaking tours are as it is not available with all tours. The Sake was lovely.
Kanefuku Mentai Park Tokoname

3.5

142 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Aichi Pref. Tokonameshi Rinkuchou 1-25-4

A mentaiko (Pollock roe) theme park operated by Kanefuku, a veteran company in the Mentaiko industry. The building’s exterior, topped with a giant smiling mentaiko, creates quite an impression. Inside, visitors, can view how mentaiko is made. The facility also sells mentaiko products direct from Kanefuku offered no place else. In the food corner, you can enjoy extra big mentaiko onigiri rice balls and mentaiko soft serve ice cream. There’s also a museum where you can learn about the history of mentaiko and how it is made. From children to adults, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Kanefuku Mentai Park.

セントレアに遊びに行った際に、お昼ご飯を兼ねて立ち寄りました。りんくう常滑駅から徒歩12、3分。中に入ると思ったより殺風景な感じです。もしかしたら、コロナ禍で来場者が少ないからそう感じたのかもしれません。店舗内は物販コーナーと飲食コーナーがあります。飲食コーナーではぜひ明太子おにぎりを食べる事をオススメします。 1個380円程しますが、それだけの価値はあります！一口食べれば、中...
Kirin Fuji Gotenba Distillery

4.0

65 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Shizuoka Pref. Gotembashi Shibanta 970

This distillery in Gotemba City offers three tours where visitors can learn the secrets behind Kirin's great-tasting FUJI SANROKU TARU-JUKU GENSHU 50° whisky. Its other attractions include a number of limited-time-only events, summer tours for schoolchildren, and more.

The tour company took us on an unexpected, surprise visit to a distillery. Really, this is where I want to take my 12-year-old. In the spirit of learning about how things are made we watched the...
Kakukyu Hatcho Miso (Hatcho Miso no Sato)

4.0

108 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Aichi Pref. Okazakishi Hacchouchou Oukandori 69

Hatcho Miso no Sato in Hatcho Town, Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, is owned by the Hatcho miso producer Kakukyu who have been making this kind of fermented soybean paste since the early Edo period. The black walled main building resembling a church and the storehouse built in 1927 have been designated as registered tangible cultural properties of Japan. In the old Meiji period storehouse now refurbished as an historical museum, visitors can see reproductions of how miso used to be made and the tools that were used. Visitors can also take a tour of the Hatcho Miso factory with guided tours available on weekends and national holidays. There is also a shop, an area to sample the miso, and a restaurant on site.

The tour is free, but you have to register yourself at the reception counter inside the souvenir shop. You will find it located on your left once you enter the shop. You will be given a piece of...
Kirin Beer Fukuoka Plant

4.5

75 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Fukuoka Asakura Mada 3601-banchi Kirin Beer Fukuoka Plant

I went for cosmos festival. Actually I would like to visit also KIRIN factory, but unfortunately the tours had been fully booked. However, anyone can visit the souvenir shop of the factory where some...
Koshu City Katsunuma Budo no Oka

4.0

82 Reviews

Leisure / Hobbies

Yamanashi Pref. Koushushi Katsunumachouhishiyama 5093

This tourist facility in Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture is focused on grapes and wine. The underground wine cave offers brands of wines that have passed the wine quality screening organized by the city. In addition to wine tastings, the facility also offers an area where guests can enjoy wine as part of a meal or a barbeque. The hot springs spa featuring views of Southern Japan Alps, the Kofu Basin, and the Misaka Mountains is also popular.

I dont know if we were unlucky because we went on a week day, but the place seemed to be half abandoned. You pass by a first building literally abandoned, and then go to the main building were you...
Cave d'Occi Winery

4.0

95 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Nigata Pref. Nigatashi Nishikan-ku Kakudahama 1661

This is a winery located along the hilly coastal area in Nishikan Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture. In the vast vineyard there are various kinds of facilities such as a wine shop, a wine cellar, a restaurant, a bakery, a day-trip hot spring facility, an accommodation facility and an English garden. Wine is made from grapes grown in a climate where there is almost no snowfall and has low rainfall, where high heat is accumulated after the rainy-season, unique to the region. Wine tours, reservations required, are also held.

A stretch located in Niigata where all the wineries are concentrated. It’s a pity that when we visit, the season is already over for grapes and all we see is fruitless vines. But we visited the...
Tanaka Sake Brewery Kikkogura

4.0

109 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Hokkaido Otarushi Nobukachou 2-2

Located only a 5-minute walk from the JR Minami Otaru Station, this is only sake brewery in Otaru. It proudly makes the Japanese sake brand, Takaragawa, Otaru Bijin liqueur, and Maho-no-Itteki hon-mirin, a sweet rice wine for cooking. Its stone masonry warehouse, built around 1905 is designated as one of Otaru's historic building. At the store, one can enjoy free sake-tastings of sake shipped direct from the brewery, Shiboritate fresh bottled sake without pasteurization, and approximately 10 other varieties of seasonal sakes. Brewery tours where one can observe the production process are offered for free all year round. *Reservations needed for groups over 10.

Visited this factory on a guided tour and found the process of how they make sake very interesting. Our guide explained all of the processes and at the end of the tour we could drink as much sake as...
Sapporo Breweries Chiba Plant

4.0

72 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Chiba Funabashi-shi Takasecho 2

サッポロビール...
Okashinoshiro Nasu Heartland

3.5

78 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Tochigi Pref. Nasugunnasumachi Takaku Kou 4588-10

A cake shop with its own factory on the premises located on the Nasu Highway in Takakuko, Nasu Town. The shop sells homemade cakes such as their goyotei-no-tsuki, a custard cream cake wrapped in castella sponge, as well as local sake and dairy products. The Kogen Restaurant on the second floor serves meals and sweets, including their Nasu wagyu in a circular bento box, rice bowls, set meals, soba and ramen.

お菓子は美味しいですが…。知り合いの子が勤めていますが話を聞くと、今どきそんな会社があるのかと思うような事が多いです。商品が良くても働いている人を蔑ろにするような会社はダメだと思います。観光客が来るので潰れることは無さそうですが同時に社員がいないと成り立たない商売な事を自覚された方がいいと思います。
Ebi Senbei no Sato Mihama Main Shop

4.5

57 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Aichi Pref. Chitagunmihamachou Kitagata Kittanagare 52-1

A direct sale shop for ebi senbei shrimp crackers which is also a popular tourist destination. From a large window in the factory tour area, you can watch as senbei are inspected and bagged. The sales corner is filled with some 40 different products, and you can also try some of them for free. The rest corner serves free tea and coffee. You can also buy squid fried in wine here. In the rest corner, there’s an area where you can try frying your own ebi senbei. The adjoining museum presents the history of ebi senbei.

美浜町にあるエビせんべいの里です。店内も広く、せんべいの種類も豊富で思わずたくさん買い物カゴに入れてしまいます。せんべいコーナーと別の場所に大きな、休憩スペースがありそこでは、無料の珈琲、お茶のセルフサービスがありゆっくりくつろぐ事ができます。せんべいの試食がないのは、仕方ないですが、残念です…
Morioka Handi-Works Square

4.0

95 Reviews

Travel / Tourism

Iwate Pref. Moriokashi Tsunagi Oirino 64-102

This facility is home to first-rate artisan groups who craft authentic handiworks every day. It consists of the industry revival center, the handi-works square, and the “magariya” zone. The handi-works square offers visitors a chance to craft various Morioka specialty products and hosts events as well, giving people a chance to observe artisans up close and try their hand at making their own items. The local cultural site “Nanbu Magariya” is a must-see as well. It’s about 20 minutes by car from the Morioka Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway.

We visited here on our way back from a local Onsen and it was very interesting. You can see how local cast iron teapots are made, make your own Japanese cookie and purchase handicrafts.