Yuasa Soy Sauce Factory, Museum & Town
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Port
Wakayama, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$280
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Learn the history and secrets behind soy sauce with an excursion to the town of Yuasa -- birthplace of this savory condiment. A tour of the Yuasa Soy Sauce factory offers a look at the traditional methods used during production.
Discover Japan's culinary culture with a look at the history and manufacturing of soy sauce in the town of Yuasa. According to legend, a 13th-century Zen Buddhist monk discovered soy sauce by accident here while making kanzanji miso bean paste. At its height in the 17th century, Yuasa boasted 90 soy sauce factories, but only four remain today. One of the most prosperous is the Yuasa Soy Sauce Factory, which makes soy sauce traditionally by hand. During the tour of the facility, you'll discover how soy sauce is brewed with koji -- an enzyme needed to break down starch into sugars and turn proteins into amino acids. Although the fermentation techniques came from China between the 6th and 9th centuries, Japan quickly developed its own proprietary processes.
Next, discover the city's charm and history with a walk through the Yuasa Machigoto Soy Sauce Museum, as you explore various soy sauce-related buildings throughout the town.
Please note:
Tour requires 2.5 hours of walking (covering more than a mile) and a lot of standing. Terrain includes steps (no elevator available) and even and uneven surfaces. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. The coach cannot accommodate scooters. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Participants must be in good physical condition. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency, as some vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars.