The Birthplace: Yuasa Shoyu Soy Sauce Heritage

In search of the roots of “shoyu”, beloved around the world, we head to a traditional buildings preservation district that has existed since the 13th century. Walking through back alleys filled with the aroma of brewing, we unravel the dedication of artisans and the history of the merchants who supported Japan’s food culture.

Price: ¥10,000 / person

Price: 2.5 hours 

Time: Morning: 9:00 am-11:30 am / Afternoon: 1:00 pm-3:30 pm

Meeting Point: JR Yuasa Station

Walking Distance: Approximately 4km (mostly flat cobblestones)

・This tour involves visiting active fermentation facilities. The scent of soy sauce mash is strong and authentic—it’s part of the experience!

・Yuasa is easily reached from Wakayama City ($approx. 40$ min) or Osaka ($approx. 90$ min) via JR lines. Detailed train schedules will be shared after booking.

・The streets are mostly flat and easy to walk. However, some traditional shops require stepping over wooden sills. Casual, comfortable shoes are perfect.

・Soy sauce bottles can be heavy. I will show you which shops offer the best ‘travel-size’ bottles or can help with shipping options within Japan.

・From autumn to winter, Yuasa is famous for its Mikan (mandarin oranges). We can grab some fresh ones at a local fruit stall during our walk!

・By walking, we respect the ‘Slow Food’ pace of Yuasa. We hear the bubbling of the fermentation and feel the sea breeze that helped preserve this town for 700 years.

Combine Yuasa Soy Sauce Walk with the Wakayama Castle Tour for a full day of Samurai and Craftsmanship. Save 10% on your total booking!

Bringing a family? If you prefer a private start time or want to include Danjo Garan (the temple complex), upgrade to the Standard Private Tour. We can meet you directly at your Shukubo (temple lodging).

1. Booking Confirmation Your booking is officially confirmed once the agreed-upon deposit or full payment is received.

2. Cancellation Fees In the event of a cancellation, the following fees will apply based on the date of notification:

Up to 14 days before the tour: 100% Refund (minus any transaction/banking fees)

13 to 7 days before the tour: 30% of the total tour fee

6 to 2 days before the tour: 50% of the total tour fee

24 hours before the tour or No-Show: 100% of the total tour fee

3. Weather & Safety Conditions Tours will proceed in the event of light rain. However, if a severe weather warning (e.g., typhoon, heavy snow) is issued or if public transportation (JR, Nankai, Koyasan Cable Car) is suspended, the tour may be canceled by the guide for safety reasons. In such cases, a full refund will be provided, or an alternative date will be offered.

4. Responsibility for Expenses Please note that any non-refundable costs already incurred (e.g., pre-purchased tickets, specific restaurant reservations with cancellation fees) will be deducted from the refund regardless of the timing of the cancellation.