Sake Tasting in Otsuka, Tokyo | Pairing 5 Sakes with Vegan Chinese Cuisine, Guided by a Sommelier

The Venue: A Private, Meet-on-Site Experience in Otsuka, Tokyo

This private tour takes place at 1-chōme-1-14 Ōtsuka, Toshima Ward, Tokyo, with participants meeting on site. The experience runs for 90 minutes, making it easy to fit into a morning or afternoon sightseeing schedule.

The experience is offered in English, Japanese, and Mandarin Chinese, making it accessible to international travelers.

Five Premium Sakes Selected by a Certified Sake Sommelier

The tasting is guided by a certified sake sommelier, who introduces five carefully selected premium sakes. Rather than simply comparing the drinks side by side, you'll benefit from the private format by hearing detailed explanations of each sake's unique character.

The toast begins with sparkling sake and an appetizer. It's a chance to discover your own preferences—whether you lean sweet or dry—through conversation with an expert.

Paired with a 5-Course Vegan Chinese Menu, 100% Vegan Down to the Broth

The meal consists of a five-course Chinese menu including gyoza dumplings and dandan noodles, prepared entirely vegan—even the broth. With no animal-derived ingredients used, vegans and vegetarians can enjoy the meal with complete peace of mind.

Each dish is designed to complement its paired sake. Discovering how a bold, characterful sake stands up to the rich spice of dandan noodles is one of the highlights that reveals the true fun of pairing.

Learn the Craft of Sake Brewing and How to Read Labels

The experience includes explanations of the sake brewing process, flavor characteristics, and tasting techniques. Gaining this knowledge while tasting makes it a memorable way to learn.

You'll also learn how to decipher sake labels, which can seem complex at first glance. It's practical knowledge that will help you choose a bottle suited to your taste, whether back home or at a liquor shop during your travels.

A Hinoki Cypress Masu Cup to Take Home

Participants get to keep a traditional hinoki cypress masu cup as a memento. This traditional vessel, used for pouring sake, is a souvenir you can continue using at home long after the experience ends.

The scent of hinoki is closely tied to the flavor of sake, so every time you pour a drink at home, it will bring back memories of your tasting experience in Tokyo.

What to Check Before Booking

• The start time and meeting time on the day
• The meeting location (1-chōme-1-14 Ōtsuka, Otsuka, Tokyo)
• Whether the 90-minute duration fits your schedule
• Languages offered (English, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese)
• That this is a private tour format
• The maximum number of participants allowed
• Age requirements related to alcohol consumption
• Advance consultation for allergies or dietary restrictions
• Conditions for taking home the hinoki masu cup
• What is included in the price
• Cancellation and change policies

Details and pricing may change depending on the season. Please check the booking page for the latest information.

In Summary

This sake tasting experience in Otsuka, Tokyo is a program in which a certified sake sommelier guides you through five premium sakes, paired with a five-course vegan Chinese menu that includes gyoza and dandan noodles. It runs for 90 minutes as a private, meet-on-site tour.

You'll come away with knowledge that lasts beyond the trip, learning about the brewing process, tasting techniques, and how to read labels. Since the food is 100% vegan down to the broth, it's also an accessible option for those with dietary restrictions. As a keepsake, you'll take home a traditional hinoki cypress masu cup.

The experience is offered in English, Japanese, and Mandarin Chinese. Check the booking page for availability and time slots.