WakayamaFood

Tour a soy sauce brewery established in the 12th year of Tenpo and purchase handmade soy sauce at the shop

About this spot

Established in 1841 in Yuasa, the birthplace of soy sauce, this soy sauce brewery continues to uphold traditional hand-brewing methods. The heritage warehouse, where moromi (soy sauce mash) is slowly aged in large Yoshino cedar barrels, remains in active use today. The moment you stand before the building, the aromatic fragrance of soy sauce drifts from everywhere. The adjoining Shokunin Warehouse is open to the public free of charge as a museum displaying traditional brewing tools, allowing you to feel the history of brewing culture rooted in Yuasa. The shop displays handmade soy sauce crafted with dedication by the brewery workers. Offerings such as cloudy soy sauce that retains the flavor of moromi before heating are treasures you can find nowhere else. The building itself, integrated with the townscape of the Preservation District, is a sight in itself—a fitting beginning to a sophisticated adult town walk.

Tips

Located about 10 minutes' walk from JR Yuasa Station in a corner of the Important Traditional Building Preservation District. Admission to the Shokunin Warehouse is free. Since soy sauce bottles are heavy, bring an eco-bag or plan your route before purchasing. The surrounding area features narrow lanes, so if driving, park in the town's tourist parking lot and walk around.