Beppu Foodie Crawl: Sake-Tasting and Izakaya
Beppu Foodie Crawl: Sake-Tasting and Izakaya
From
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Beppu in this guided sake-tasting and bar-hopping tour.
Highlights
Taste local sake you wouldn't typically find elsewhere
Enjoy a charming atmosphere in a quirky, renovated Japanese town-house
Avoid the touristy areas, and see the 'downtown' side to Beppu that only the locals know
Experience Details
As evening settles over Beppu, step into Space Beppu. This renovated century-old Japanese house now serves as a community space filled with warmth and quiet character.
Wooden beams overhead and soft lighting set the mood for the night ahead. Here, your experience begins with a guided sake tasting, where you will sample carefully selected varieties and learn how aroma, temperature, and brewing style shape each sip.
Your guide may be the organizer himself, a German-born Japanese host fluent in both English and Japanese, whose multicultural background brings added depth to the evening. When he is unavailable, a knowledgeable English-speaking local expert leads the tour. In either case, you are supported throughout the night with clear explanations, cultural insights, and seamless communication.
After the tasting, head into the narrow alleys of Beppu’s "shitamachi" or downtown district. Lanterns glow above small storefronts, and the sound of laughter drifts from tucked-away doorways.
You will visit two local izakayas, each offering its own atmosphere and specialties. With your guide handling menus and introductions, you can order with confidence, even when faced with handwritten Japanese selections.
At each stop, enjoy traditional Japanese dishes paired with drinks as you discover how flavors shift from light and delicate to rich and savory. Your guide shares context about ingredients, preparation styles, and local dining customs, helping you feel at ease in these intimate spaces.
The evening concludes at a cozy bar, where you can relax and reflect on the night over one last drink. More than a bar-hopping tour, this experience offers a thoughtful introduction to Beppu’s nightlife, blending history, conversation, and authentic local flavors in one memorable evening.
What You Get
Good To Know
- Guests are requested to drink responsibly throughout the tour to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment. Hosts/guides will not be responsible for lost items
- Please note that the minimum drinking age in Japan is 20 years old, and only participants of legal drinking age can participate in this tour
- Please inform the host of any dietary restrictions beforehand
- Please note that, in case of unexpected shop or bar closures, locations may be subject to change
- Chinese language support is available (subject to availability). Please enquire upon booking
Meeting Point and Meeting Time
Meet your host at the Beppu Station Tourist Information Centre. More detailed information and a Google Maps link will be provided upon booking.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the experience start time to receive a full refund.
Experience Location
Home to a hot spring hot spot that’s been famous for centuries — once you’ve conquered Oita’s world-class onsen, there’s much more to be discovered!