Report on the Shoryakuji Temple Tour
The tour began at Nara Park Bus Terminal, where we gathered and smoothly boarded the bus for the trip. On the way to the sake brewery, we were introduced to the origins of sake brewing, learning that this area holds historical significance as the birthplace of sake. As we approached the brewery on foot, we could already see the smoke rising from the facility, which made it exciting to witness the sake-making process firsthand while listening to detailed explanations.
At the brewery, we learned about the making of the Bodaisen sake, particularly the method of “two-stage brewing.” I was fascinated to discover that the sake is not finished in one go, but rather, the alcohol content is adjusted, and the brewing process is restarted, leading to the two-stage or even three-stage brewing technique.
Next, we visited Shoryakuji Temple, where we had the privilege of hearing the head priest talk about the temple’s history and its significance. It was a deeply educational experience, and I felt grateful to have had the chance to learn from someone so knowledgeable.
For lunch, we were served a meal prepared by the head priest’s wife, and it was all absolutely delicious. The lunch was a traditional Japanese meal, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and every dish was full of flavor.
During the meal, we also participated in a sake tasting session, where the group had the opportunity to discuss and share our impressions of the different types of sake. It was a wonderful way to bond with fellow participants and enjoy the experience together.
After the meal, we were treated to a bowl of kasu-jiru (a soup made with sake lees), which was incredibly delicious. Each sake brewery makes this dish with its own twist, but the kasu-jiru at Shoryaku-ji was particularly easy to eat and had a wonderfully gentle flavor that warmed up my body on a cold day.
After lunch, we moved to another room for a calligraphy experience. Everyone was focused on their work, creating their own pieces with great concentration. It was a fun and engaging time as we shared our finished works with one another. The best part was that we could take our calligraphy home as a keepsake, making it a memorable experience that I will cherish.
Finally, we had some time to purchase exclusive sake available only at Shoryaku-ji Temple. Afterward, we gathered for a group photo before boarding the bus and heading back home.
Overall, this tour provided a rich, immersive experience. Walking through the vast temple grounds, praying for health and well-being at the Yakushi Nyorai statue, and viewing the sacred artifacts held within the temple, were all incredibly meaningful. For those with an interest in sake, Japanese history, and culture, this tour would undoubtedly be a memorable and enriching experience. It was a rare and invaluable opportunity to deepen my understanding of Japanese traditions.
*This tour program was conducted as the second phase of the “Project for Building and
Promoting the International Brand of Nara Park, a Sacred Site Combining the Highest Tangible
and Intangible Cultural Heritage ,” a project commissioned by the FY 2024 Japan Cultural Expo
2.0 Project (by commission) .
