Sake TabiA guide to visiting Japan's sake breweries, distilleries, wineries and more
Shochu · Tatsugo, Kagoshima

Machida Shuzo (Sato no Akebono)

Machida Shuzo (Sato no Akebono) (Tatsugo, Kagoshima) is a place to visit for shochu. Booking: Reservation required. Guidance in English: Check the official site. Fee: Free.

Shochu
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The distillery of Amami kokuto shochu Sato no Akebono. Free reserved tours (about 60 minutes) cover the factory, aging cellar and bottling line, and the on-site shop offers tasting and sales.

How to visit

Location
Tatsugo, Kagoshima
Address
鹿児島県大島郡龍郷町大勝3321番地
Booking
Reservation required
Guidance in English
Check the official site
Fee
Free

Good to know

  • Tours start at 9:00, 10:30 and 13:30 for 1-6 people. Book on the official website's calendar; groups of 7 or more should contact in advance.
  • Closed on weekends, public holidays and New Year. The shop is open 9:00-12:00 and 13:00-15:00.
  • Tasting is optional. People under 20 and anyone driving a car, motorbike or bicycle cannot taste. The official site has an English tour page.
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Frequently asked questions

Do I need to book a visit to Machida Shuzo (Sato no Akebono)?

Yes, a reservation is required.

Is guidance in English available at Machida Shuzo (Sato no Akebono)?

We have not confirmed whether guidance in English is available. Please check the official site.

How much does a visit to Machida Shuzo (Sato no Akebono) cost?

Fee: Free.

Can I take part in a tasting if I'm driving?

The legal drinking age in Japan is 20. If you are driving you cannot taste. Use public transport or a taxi, or let someone who is not drinking drive.

Information sources

Information checked against official sources, such as the facility's website.

Checked 2026-11-03

Sources

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Opening days, fees and booking methods change. If you notice a difference, please tell us and we will check and fix it promptly.

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