Beppu Foodie Crawl: Sake-Tasting and Izakaya

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.