HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Visit the Fermentation Artisans of Maniwa
Explore another side of Japan through Maniwa’s refined craftsmanship in fermentation
Maniwa Tourism Bureau
The city of Maniwa in northern Okayama Prefecture’s Hiruzen Plateau is home to a deep-rooted fermented food culture. The region’s cold climate has yielded numerous blessings of nature, such as soft water from the Asahi River, medium-hard water from the Bicchu River, native Omachi rice, wild grapes, and milk from Jersey cows.
Locals have incorporated these superb fermentation materials into handcrafted methods that have been passed down through generations. Over the years, they have developed a diverse food culture that includes not only Japanese fermented goods such as sake, miso, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, but also offers Western fermented goods such as cheese, wine, and craft beer.
Learn about the rich breadth of fermented foods with a visit to Maniwa Haccos, a group created by seven Maniwa craftsmen who are connected through fermentation across different industries. Experience fermentation culture and sample some delicious fermented foods and beverages by visiting the group’s workshops and breweries, set against the backdrop of the Hiruzen Plateau’s rich nature and tradition.
How to get there
From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama Station (about 50 minutes). From there, take the JR Tsuyama Line to Tsuyama Station (about 1 hour and 15 minutes), then transfer to the Kishin Line and ride to Chugoku-Katsuyama Station (about 50 minutes). A 5-minute walk from the station will take you to the Katsuyama Townscape Preservation District, the sightseeing base of Maniwa City.
Kono Vinegar Miso Manufacturing Factory
267 Kuse, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
Tsuji Honten
116 Katsuyama, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
Ochi Brewery
664-4 Shimoazae, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
Hiruzen Winery
1205-32 Kamifukuda, Hiruzen, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
IL RICOTTARO
960-31 Nakafukuda, Hiruzen, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
Hiruzen Latte bambino
681-1 Tomiyamane, Hiruzen, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
Mimasaka Beer Works
817-1 Egawa, Maniwa-shi, Okayama-ken
