Yamatoichi Shuzo
Yamatoichi Shuzo (Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto) is a place to visit for shochu. Booking: Reservation required. Guidance in English: Check the official site. Fee: Course A JPY 1,000 / Course B (with tasting flight) JPY 1,500, tax included.
A Kuma shochu distillery with hot-spring water in the brewery, rebuilt after the 2020 floods. It runs a reservation-only guided tour.
How to visit
- Location
- Hitoyoshi, Kumamoto
- Address
- 熊本県人吉市下林町2144番地
- Booking
- Reservation required
- Guidance in English
- Check the official site
- Fee
- Course A JPY 1,000 / Course B (with tasting flight) JPY 1,500, tax included
Good to know
- Course A about 60 min, B about 90 min. From 1 person, up to 20.
- Starts at 10:30 or 14:00/15:00. Closed Sundays, Mondays, New Year and Obon.
- Book by the day before via form or phone. Some days are unavailable due to production (see calendar).
- Those joining the tasting must not drive; drivers can join Course A. Tell them the number and ages of children when booking.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book a visit to Yamatoichi Shuzo?
Yes, a reservation is required.
Is guidance in English available at Yamatoichi Shuzo?
We have not confirmed whether guidance in English is available. Please check the official site.
How much does a visit to Yamatoichi Shuzo cost?
Fee: Course A JPY 1,000 / Course B (with tasting flight) JPY 1,500, tax included.
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 2026-10-27
Sources
Spotted a mistake?
Opening days, fees and booking methods change. If you notice a difference, please tell us and we will check and fix it promptly.
