Tour the sake brewery of the Uesugi family's official sake merchant, and take home the celebrated sake "Tokou"
About this spot
The sake museum opened by Kojima Sohonten (小嶋総本店), a sake brewery that has served as the official sake merchant of the Yonezawa domain since its founding in the Azuchi-Momoyama period. The museum displays the historic sake brewery open to the public, reputed to be one of the largest in Tohoku, showcasing the fermentation warehouses and sake-brewing tools that supported sake-making in snowy Yonezawa, as well as a recreation of the nostalgic account office—bringing to life the work of past brewery workers. The cool air of the warehouse itself becomes part of the exhibit, telling the story of snow-country sake culture. After the tour, visit the gift shop for tastings of the flagship brand "Tokou" (東光) and souvenir selection. This space, nostalgic for grandparents and fresh for grandchildren, is a fitting conclusion to your castle town history walk.
Tips
About a 10-minute walk from Uesugi Shrine, or just minutes by car with parking available. Tastings are not available to designated drivers and those under 20; non-drinkers can enjoy brewing water and sweet sake instead. The warehouse remains cool even in summer; bring a light layer for comfort.
Best time to visit
Takes approximately 45 minutes. Arrival by around 3 p.m. allows relaxed viewing before closing.
Access & map
〒992-0031 Yamagata Prefecture, Yonezawa City, Ohmachi 2-chome 3-22
Model course featuring this spot
Yonezawa: Uesugi Shrine and Castle Town History Walk
Yamagata
Explore features & model courses
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