Flavors of Okinawa Tour: Awamori Cave, Tofuyo, Yagaji Island

This 6-hour Okinawa tour is a whirlwind adventure through the culinary highlights and rare experiences that Japan’s southernmost prefecture has to offer. First, you’ll visit Matsufuji Distillery, one of the 47 awamori distilleries in Okinawa (and Japan), and learn how the alcoholic beverage that’s indigenous to Okinawa is made. Housed in a reclaimed American military hangar, Matsufuji Distillery is also unique for being one of the only awamori companies that was founded by a woman. After a tasting at the distillery, you’ll be whisked off to the limestone caves and hear about Asamu Toyokawa, who runs the awamori cellar operation. It’s the only place in the world where you can find awamori being aged in natural caves underground. Toyokawa’s eccentric mother came up with the wild idea, which is helping to change the image of the area, Kin Town, which was previously only known for its U.S. military base. But awamori isn’t all that the caves have to offer. Guests will also get to try tofuyo, a fermented tofu dish that’s aged in awamori in the very same caves. Savor it slowly like a fine cheese, tasting the difference between tofuyo that’s fermented over varying durations. Then, hop back in the car for a leisurely drive through the scenic Yagaji Island, making stops at historic and scenic points along the way. For a late lunch, you’ll visit a cozy house-turned-cafe with a vintage-inspired ambiance and sample a variety of Okinawa’s local flavors. SCHEDULE 9:30 Meet 9:45 Matsufuji Distillery 11:00 Awamori cave 12:00 Tofuyo tasting 12:45 Food experience - Okinawan sweets 13:30 Scenic drive to Yagaji Island, making stops along the way 14:15 Food experience - Okinawan regional food 15:30~16:00 Disband