Discover the Exquisite Flavors of Miyagi: A Journey for the Discerning Palate

To the adult who feels the need to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life…

This time, we propose a journey to explore the delightful sake and wine of Miyagi Prefecture, a region rich in nature and culinary culture, perfect for rejuvenating your mind and body.

Indulge in the profound flavors of sake carefully brewed in historic breweries, and the mellow wines created from grapes kissed by the sun and sea breeze. Immerse yourself in the stories of the land and the passion of the producers, as you fully savor the exquisite sake and cuisine unique to Miyagi. This is a relaxing weekend travel plan designed for the sophisticated adult!

So, why not embark on a “sake journey” to Miyagi now?

Why Miyagi’s “Sake Journey” is Highly Recommended Now ~ A Land of Fine Brews Where Tradition and Innovation Live On ~

Miyagi Prefecture is a time-honored sake-producing region blessed with pure water from the Ou Mountains and high-quality sake rice grown in its vast plains. Its history dates back to 1604!

When Lord Date Masamune, the founder of the Sendai Domain, established official purveyors of sake, brewing technology in the region underwent remarkable development. Even now, old-established breweries that continue to protect traditional methods are scattered throughout the prefecture, each producing sake that reflects the unique character of its locality.

Miyagi’s sake is generally described as “refreshing, with a vivid crispness and a dry finish.” This refined taste is created by the traditional technique of “low-temperature, long-term fermentation,” which takes place slowly amidst the harsh winter cold of Tohoku. Furthermore, the “Kuranohana” rice variety is widely used for sake brewing, and in recent years, the new variety “Gin no Iroha,” which was born in 2019, has also been attracting attention, opening up new possibilities for sake production.

Moreover, in recent years, wineries with distinctive character have been successively established by producers drawn to the area’s favorable climate and soil. As a result, the appeal of Miyagi’s “alcohol” extends beyond just sake, increasing its diversity.

On this trip, you can fully appreciate both the historic Japanese sake that evokes “Japanese elegance” and the innovative wines that shine with “modern sensibility.” Experiencing these two different alcohol cultures will not only allow you to enjoy the drinks themselves but will also lead you to a profound cultural experience. Traditional sake tells a story of history and delicate craftsmanship, much like a serene Japanese garden, while innovative wine expresses new challenges and international sensibilities, like a modern art gallery. By experiencing this contrast, your journey will surely transform into a more intellectual and sensorially rich time.

Day 1: Into the World of Mellow Sake – Encountering Tradition and Innovation

Morning: Visiting “Saura (Urakasumi Brewery)” – Nurtured by Famous Water and History

The journey begins at the long-established “Saura (Urakasumi Brewery)” in Shiogama City, which is also close to Matsushima, one of Japan’s three most scenic spots. Founded in 1724, it’s astonishing that it has been weaving the history of sake brewing in Miyagi for about 300 years! This brewery is widely known for its history and reliable quality.

When you visit Saura, be sure to stop by the “Urakasumi Sake Gallery.” Here, you can learn about the brewery’s history and the sake-making process, and gain a deep understanding of their commitment to ingredients such as “Kuranohana,” the sake rice nurtured by Miyagi’s climate, and the noteworthy new variety “Gin no Iroha.”

And the highlight is undoubtedly the tasting! You can experience the various flavors of “Urakasumi,” the renowned sake brewed by Saura. Take your time to savor the umami of the rice, its flowery aroma, and the “refreshing, vividly crisp, dry finish” that is characteristic of Miyagi’s sake. In particular, “Urakasumi Zen Junmai Ginjo” is an exquisite sake that captivates many with its elegant taste.

At the “Urakasumi Sake Gallery,” you can also purchase limited-edition label sake that is only available here, as well as traditional crafts from Miyagi. Brewery tours may require advance reservations, so it’s recommended to check the latest information on their official website before visiting. With over 200 years of history and sake born from famous water, this is truly the perfect place to start your journey!

• Name: Saura (Urakasumi Brewery)
• Location: 2-19 Honmachi, Shiogama City, Miyagi Prefecture
• Founded: 1724 (approximately 300 years ago)
• Main Brands: Urakasumi
• Tours/Information: History introduction, product exhibition, tasting, and limited-edition sake sales at the “Urakasumi Sake Gallery.” Detailed brewery tours require prior confirmation.
• Reservation: Visiting the sake gallery usually does not require a reservation, but advance booking is recommended for special tours.
• Phone Number: 022-362-4165
• Official Website: https://www.urakasumi.com/

Lunch: The Marriage of Seasonal Flavors and Sake at a Local Kappo Restaurant

After leaving Saura, head to a Kappo restaurant where you can enjoy the rich blessings of the local area.

Here, you can savor beautiful Kaiseki cuisine made with fresh seafood caught off the coast of Sanriku and an abundance of seasonal local vegetables. The delicate presentation is truly a work of art!

And of course, this is also the place to enjoy Miyagi’s local sake, especially the Urakasumi sake you just experienced. Please fully enjoy the supreme harmony created by the delicate Japanese cuisine and sake, with pairings recommended by the chef. The umami of the rice, the flowery aroma, and the clean, crisp finish of Miyagi’s sake perfectly enhance the inherent flavors of the seasonal ingredients, making the dining experience even richer.

While information on a “Kappo restaurant renovated from an old folk house remaining in a nearby post town” that matches your request was not found, the combination of local gourmet food and fine sake unique to this region is sure to satisfy your palate. You might also enjoy searching for a lovely Kappo restaurant around Shiogama City or along the way to your next destination.

Afternoon: Strolling Through the “Samurai Residence Street” in Shiroishi, and to the Evening’s Accommodation

Once you’re satisfied with lunch, let’s head to Shiroishi City, which is full of historical charm.

Take a leisurely stroll through “Samurai Residence Street.” This area has a quiet and quaint townscape that feels like stepping back in time to the Edo period. The scenery of the waterways flowing along the narrow alleys and the rows of earthen walls invites visitors into a historical romance.

In particular, the former Koseki residence, which served as the attendant for the wife of the Katakura clan, is a must-see.

The thatched-roof main house, built in 1730, is a valuable place where you can glimpse the simple yet refined life of a samurai of that time. You can also tour the interior, so please step into the space where samurai actually lived and feel the history firsthand. It will surely be a deeper historical experience than just visiting a post town.

After your stroll, it’s time to head to today’s accommodation.

This time, we’ve chosen “Komatsu-kan Kofu-tei,” which offers a stunning view of Matsushima, one of Japan’s three most scenic spots. In the “Miharashi no Yu” large public bath, which overlooks Matsushima Bay, and the luxurious private open-air baths, you can exclusively enjoy the magnificent scenery of Matsushima as it changes its expression with time, along with the soft natural hot spring water. It’s the perfect space to soothe the fatigue of your travels and spend a relaxing time before dinner!

Day 2: Encounters with Up-and-Coming Wines – Nurtured by the Sea Breeze and Sun

Morning: Exploring “Akiu Winery” on a Hill Overlooking the Sea

On the second day, we’ll visit “Akiu Winery,” located on a small hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. As the first winery to be established in Miyagi Prefecture after the Great East Japan Earthquake, it is already attracting attention from many wine lovers as an up-and-coming presence. Their careful wine-making, which maximizes the terroir (climate and soil) of the land, is its charm.

While strolling through the vast vineyards, you can receive explanations about the grape varieties being cultivated and the unique cultivation methods of this region. Afterward, you’ll tour the winery and have the valuable experience of seeing firsthand the wine-making process that combines the latest equipment with traditional techniques. You can hear the passionate story of how the representative of the winery started making wine in this area and their vision for the future, allowing you to feel the producers’ strong dedication.

And now for the long-awaited tasting!

Please take your time to savor several types of wine, such as the mineral-rich white wine that evokes the sea breeze and the concentrated red wine. You can also purchase your favorite wines at the adjacent shop.

Akiu Winery offers an experience that integrates not only winery tours but also dining at the attached restaurant “TERROAGE AKIU.” This is not just a wine tasting but an opportunity to deeply experience the wonderful “marriage” of Miyagi’s terroir and food culture. By simultaneously tasting the producers’ passion and the blessings of the region, the satisfaction of your trip will surely be enhanced.

Akiu Winery Visiting Tips

Winery tours are held year-round on weekdays (excluding Tuesdays), last approximately 60 minutes, and cost from ¥4,000 (tax included). Tours are conducted for groups of 2 to 10 people and generally require a phone reservation at least 7 days in advance. Depending on the season, grape harvesting experiences and special wine seminars with winemakers are also held, so please check the latest information on their website and be sure to make a reservation!

Lunch: A Local Ingredient Lunch Plate at the Winery’s “TERROAGE AKIU” Cafe

Lunch at the restaurant “TERROAGE AKIU” attached to Akiu Winery will surely be one of the highlights of this trip. This restaurant, which just opened on August 1, 2024, has a wonderful concept: “The ultimate marriage is found in the place of origin.”

The colorful Italian lunch plate, made with fresh vegetables grown by farmers around Akiu and abundant ingredients from Miyagi and Tohoku, is perfect in both appearance and taste! Of course, it pairs excellently with the carefully brewed wines of Akiu Winery. How about spending a leisurely and luxurious lunchtime on the open terrace surrounded by vineyards, while enjoying the beautiful scenery? Dinner is by reservation only and course meals are also available, allowing for an even more special dining experience.

The collaboration between the winery and the restaurant allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the terroir (the individuality of the land) behind the wine through food. By experiencing not only delicious food but also the harmony created by the grapes and ingredients grown in this land, the memories of this trip will surely be clearer and deeply etched into your senses.

• Name: Akiu Winery
• Location: Bihanaranishi 6, Yumoto Akiu-machi, Taihaku-ku, Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture
• Established: Started as the “first” winery in Miyagi Prefecture after the Great East Japan Earthquake (approximately 7 years ago)
• Main Wine Characteristics: Careful wine-making that utilizes the terroir, mineral-rich white wines that evoke the sea breeze, concentrated red wines
• Tours/Information: Winery tour (approx. 60 min., vineyard/winery tour, tasting) held year-round on weekdays. Grape harvesting experiences and wine seminars are also held seasonally.
• Reservation: Phone reservation at least 7 days in advance is generally required for winery tours.
• Opening Hours: Shop & Cafe & Tours: 9:30-17:00, Restaurant: 11:00-17:00 (Lunch 11:00-15:30, Cafe 15:00-17:00), Dinner by reservation 18:00-21:00.
• Closed: Every Tuesday.
• Phone Number: 022-226-7475
• Attached Facility: Restaurant “TERROAGE AKIU”: Offers Italian cuisine and wine pairings using local ingredients.
• Official Website: https://akiuwinery.co.jp/

Afternoon: Souvenir Shopping and the End of the Journey

Once your heart and stomach are full, the final part of your trip is time to look for local specialties at souvenir shops and roadside stations in Miyagi. Local sake and wine are, of course, great choices, as well as classic gourmet items representing Miyagi such as “Sasa-kamaboko” (leaf-shaped fish cake) and “gyutan products” (beef tongue), which will deliciously color your travel memories.

Furthermore, traditional crafts that showcase the skills of local artisans are also attractive souvenirs that we encourage you to pick up. For example, “Miyagi Traditional Kokeshi Dolls” come in five systems – Naruko, Togatta, Yajiro, Sakunami, and Hijiori – each with different shapes, paintings, and expressions. Because each doll is carefully handcrafted by artisans, you can feel their warmth and individuality. “Sendai Tansu” (Sendai Chests) are traditional crafts passed down since the late Edo period, and their exquisite techniques are truly works of art. Artisans perform the three processes of joinery, lacquer finishing, and hand-forged iron fittings by hand. Choosing these crafts is not just about buying souvenirs; it’s an experience of bringing home the region’s history, the artisans’ passion, and its unique culture.

Craft Name	Characteristics	Main Purchase Locations	Related Experiences
Miyagi Kokeshi Dolls	Five systems: Naruko, Togatta, Yajiro, Sakunami, Hijiori, each with distinct shapes and paintings. Artisans handcraft the entire process.	Japan Kokeshi Museum (Naruko Onsen), Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Museum (Togatta Onsen), Yajiro Kokeshi Village (Shiroishi City), Akiu Craft Village (Taihaku-ku, Sendai), Kokeshi no Shimanuki Main Store (Sendai City), etc.	Painting experiences (Japan Kokeshi Museum, Miyagi Zao Kokeshi Museum, Yajiro Kokeshi Village, Akiu Craft Village, etc.)
Sendai Tansu	Traditional crafts passed down since the late Edo period. Artisans handcraft the three processes of joinery, lacquer finishing, and iron fittings.	Akiu Craft Village Kumano-do (Taihaku-ku, Sendai), Sendai Tansu Denshokan Monmaya (Wakabayashi-ku, Sendai), etc.	Production experiences (Sendai Tansu Cooperative Association)
Other	Tsutsumi ware, Shiroishi washi paper, Iwaideyama bamboo crafts, etc.

With your heart and stomach full, and wonderful memories in your mind, it’s finally time to head home. We sincerely hope that this Miyagi sake journey will bring new color and inspiration to your daily life.

Lastly. How to Further Enjoy Your Miyagi Sake Journey for Adults?

To fully enjoy your sake exploration in Miyagi, there are a few important points. These are tips to make your trip richer and more memorable.

Make reservations well in advance! Popular breweries, wineries, and restaurants can be difficult to book, especially on weekends and during the tourist season. Tours and tastings often require advance reservations, so early planning and booking are recommended.

Choose your transportation wisely. Breweries and wineries may be located in areas with limited access by public transportation. Consider using rental cars, taxis, or taking advantage of specialized tours like those proposed by Tohoku Reserve.

Pace your tastings. It’s easy to overindulge in delicious sake and wine, but please be mindful of your consumption and take care of your physical condition. If you are driving, never drink alcohol!

Enjoy conversations with the producers! The Toji (master brewer) at sake breweries and the winemakers at wineries have a deep passion and extensive knowledge about their craft. Don’t hesitate to talk to them and listen to the unique stories of the region and their dedication to their beverages. It will surely deepen your trip.

How did you like it? Besides the places introduced this time, there are many other attractive sake breweries and wineries in Tohoku. Why not find your own special sake journey with Tohoku Reserve, in search of the unique sake and cuisine nurtured by each region, and the stories that live there?