Shinjuku Sake Tasting Masterclass: 6+ Varieties

Taste six sakes and learn why temperature and cup shape change what you're drinking

A two-hour sake tasting masterclass in Shinjuku, Tokyo, where you learn brewing basics and taste over six varieties from small family breweries while a sommelier walks you through food pairings. The class covers how to read sake labels, select bottles that match your taste, and understand why the same sake tastes different in different cups and at different temperatures. Minimum age is 20. Message ahead if you have food restrictions.

The experience

You'll spend two hours in Shinjuku learning sake 101 from an international sake sommelier. The class covers brewing techniques, how to read labels, and the proper way to drink sake with food: the fundamentals most people skip. Then you taste your way through more than six different sakes, each one sourced from small family-owned breweries, and you'll create your own tasting chart as you go so you can remember what you actually liked.

The real lesson happens when the sommelier pours the same sake into different cups and at different temperatures. You'll taste the difference yourself instead of being told about it. Locally sourced snacks come with each pour, paired to show how sake complements flavors you wouldn't expect: umami, salt, sweetness, acid. You're not just sipping. You're building a map of your own taste so you can order with confidence instead of guessing at a restaurant.

The class runs in a small group in central Shinjuku, where public transportation is dense. You'll meet other sake enthusiasts in Tokyo and pick up local tips on where to find the breweries and bottles you discover here. The sommelier is English-speaking, and the two-hour format means you're done by early afternoon.

What’s included

• Instruction from an English-speaking international sake sommelier.
• tastings of more than six sakes from small family breweries.
• a snack platter paired with each pour.
• a tasting chart you create as you go.
• the chance to taste how temperature and cup shape change the same sake.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 13:00

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (20 and older) · Under 20: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 8

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Stroller friendlyPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Ninja Food Tours

Is this one for you?Book this if you're based in Tokyo without a car. The Shinjuku location is accessible by public transport from anywhere in the city, so you can join straight from your accommodation.

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Top questions

What exactly do I taste during the sake masterclass?

You taste more than six different sakes from small family breweries, each one selected to show you different styles and flavor profiles. The sommelier pours the same sake in different cups and at different temperatures so you can taste how those factors change what you're drinking, then pairs each one with locally sourced snacks to show how sake works with food.

Do I need to know anything about sake before I show up?

No. The masterclass starts with Sake 101: brewing techniques, history, how to read labels, and the proper way to select and drink sake with food. You learn as you taste, so beginners and people who drink sake regularly both get something out of it.

Is there food included, or should I eat before?

A snack platter comes with the tasting to pair with each sake, but it's not a full meal. Having lunch beforehand is recommended so you can taste clearly and enjoy the class without getting hungry.

Where in Tokyo does the masterclass happen?

The class meets in Shinjuku, the center of Tokyo, where public transportation options are dense nearby. You'll need to get yourself there. Hotel pickup is not included.

What's the minimum age, and are there any restrictions I should know?

The minimum drinking age for the class is 20 years. The class is not recommended for pregnant travelers. If you have food restrictions, message the operator at least a week before your date so they can adjust the snack pairings.

How long does the masterclass take?

The class runs for two hours, including all tastings, instruction, and food pairings. You'll be done by early afternoon.