Craft Your Own Soy Sauce in Japan’s Old Capital, Asuka, Nara

While some regions in Japan are known for technological innovations, others take pride in preserving their traditions. Asuka in central Nara Prefecture belongs to the latter group. Once Japan’s first capital, this historic area carefully protects its ancient treasures, including a unique soy sauce heritage that continues to thrive today. On this guided exploration of Asuka’s soy sauce traditions, you’ll visit a brewery that has been operating for over a century and learn about the craft from a third-generation soy sauce maker. Step into the world of artisanal production, make and bottle your own soy sauce to take home, and taste dishes that showcase the region’s distinctive soy sauce flavors. Start your tour at Asika Stand, a modern café in Asuka, where you meet your host. Then visit the historic Tokuboshi Soy Sauce Brewery, where the third-generation brewer shares insights into the history and methods of soy sauce production. Change into soy sauce brewing attire and squeeze your own soy sauce into a personalized bottle to take home. After the brewery, enjoy a dish of silky tofu made in-house, paired with Tokuboshi’s artisanal soy sauce. Conclude your experience at a modern café in a repurposed townhouse, relaxing with mitarashi dango, skewered dumplings glazed with Tokuboshi soy sauce, served with tea.