HED/Hiroshima: Essential Discoveries/Saijo

Saijo

Saijo

Saijo: The Historic Sake Town

Located just 35 minutes by train from Hiroshima Station, Saijo is one of Japan's three great sake-producing regions. The "Sakagura-dori" (Sake Storehouse Road) is famous for its iconic white-walled breweries and red-brick chimneys. Here, visitors can stroll through historic streets, taste premium sake brewed with local soft water, and learn about the intricate craft of Japanese rice wine.

Key Landmarks & Experiences

Sakagura-dori (Sake Storehouse Road)

Saijo Sake Brewery Street | VISIT Higashihiroshima
About 40 minutes from Hiroshima Station and near Saijo Station, Saijo Sake Brewery Street has seven historic breweries offering tours and tastings.
Saijo Sake Brewery Street | VISIT Higashihiroshima
https://en.higashihiroshima-kanko.jp/special-saijo/
Saijo Sake Brewery Street | VISIT Higashihiroshima
Seven historic breweries are concentrated in this area. Each brewery has its own unique architecture and flavor profile. Don't miss the distinctive red chimneys that define the skyline of Saijo.
 

Sake Tasting & Water Sampling

Many breweries offer sake tasting (some for free, some for a small fee). You can also try "Shikomi-mizu" (the well water used for brewing), which is famous for its medium-soft quality that makes Saijo sake so smooth.
 

Local Specialties

Bishu-nabe

A unique hot pot dish originally created by brewery workers. It is seasoned only with sake, salt, and pepper—no soy sauce or sugar—to preserve the purity of the ingredients' flavors.