Event Dates：May 20 (Wed), 2026 / June 24 (Wed), 2026

This program offers a rare Japanese cultural experience that begins with a visit to Munakata Taisha Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a special “Shochu & Tea Ceremony” enjoyed with the legendary Ashiya-gama tea kettle.

You will be guided by Ms. Nobuko Kurose, a descendant of the renowned Kurose Toji lineage and an accomplished shochu presenter.

In a serene setting where
sacred prayer, the spirit of tea, and shochu
quietly interconnect, you will enjoy a moment that can only be experienced here.

Experience Highlights

◆ Visit to Munakata Taisha (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Munakata Taisha is part of the Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is one of Japan’s oldest shrines, appearing in ancient mythology.

With explanations by Ms. Kurose, you will gain insight into Japan’s history and spiritual culture, deepening your understanding of the experiences that follow.

◆ “Shochu & Tea Ceremony” at Ashiya-gama no Sato

In Japanese tea culture, the kettle used to boil water holds special significance.
Of the nine nationally designated Important Cultural Property tea kettles in Japan, eight are Ashiya-gama.
At Ashiya-gama no Sato, where this tradition lives on, you will experience a special tea ceremony using modern Ashiya-gama kettles.

Shochu prepared with hot water boiled in an Ashiya-gama—creating an exceptionally smooth oyuwari—and matcha tea will be served in a tranquil tea room. The water boiled in the kettle is remarkably soft, resulting in an exquisite flavor.

A tea ceremony represents the highest form of hospitality in tea culture. Overlooking a beautiful Japanese garden, enjoy a one-of-a-kind moment where shochu and tea meet.

You will also visit the museum and observe workplace of master casters who continue the Ashiya-gama tradition today, offering a valuable opportunity to learn about Japanese aesthetics and craftsmanship.

Schedule

[Meeting Place] Please gather at the JR Tōgō Station – Munakata Taisha Exit ticket gate by 9:20.

• 09:30 Meet at JR Tōgō Station
• 09:45 Depart JR Tōgō Station (travel by chartered vehicle)
• 10:00 Visit Munakata Taisha Shrine
• 11:00 Depart Munakata Taisha (chartered vehicle)
• 11:40 Arrive at Ashiya gama-no-Sato
  • Facility tour
  • “Shochu and Tea Ceremony” experience (special arranged tea ceremony)
• Around 14:00 Finish (return by chartered vehicle and dismiss at JR Tōgō Station)

Times may vary depending on conditions on the day.

Guided Commentary by Ms. Nobuko Kurose

• The lineage of Kurose Toji and shochu culture
• Why oyuwari shochu enjoyed with Ashiya-gama is so special

This is not merely a tasting, but an experience where understanding the background enhances the flavor itself.

◆ Profile: Ms. Nobuko Kurose

(President & CEO of HarmoniK Co., Ltd. / Shochu Producer)

A descendant of the legendary “Kurose Toji,” a renowned group of shochu master brewers from Kurose Village, Kagoshima. The Kurose Toji are known for their expertise and for greatly advancing shochu production across Japan.

Upon discovering her lineage, Ms. Kurose began activities with a passion to “spread shochu to the world,” giving lectures, organizing events, and launching popular programs such as the “Shochu Women’s Gathering.” She also leads regional revitalization projects using shochu at the request of government agencies. She organized the 2024, 2025 study tour that greatly impressed top sommeliers and bartenders from France’s Kura Master.

Recommended For

• Those interested in Japanese culture and traditional crafts
• Those who wish to understand shochu as a cultural heritage
• Those looking for an authentic, non-ordinary Japanese experience

Program Information

Minimum Participants: ６people
Price: ¥39,500
Duration: Approx. 4.5 hours
Languages: Japanese / English