Archive4 Hours Trips

Option B: Hands-on Miyazaki

Shusen-no-mori Sake Brewery (Brewery tour is free; 20 minutes)

This is a veritable theme park of alcoholic beverages, including the local specialty shochu, as well as sake, craft beer and wine. With advance reservations, it is possible to observe the traditional shochu brewing process in action, or you can learn about the winemaking process through educational exhibits. After learning how these drinks are made, you can enjoy a tasting of the products in the gift shop. There is also a hot spring bathing resort on site, offering open-air baths, sake-infused baths, and more.

Aya International Craft Castle (Admission: 1050 yen)

Located on the grounds of Aya Castle, it exhibits local handmade textiles, wood products, bamboo products, and pottery. It also offers hands-on classes in pottery, weaving, or traditional dyeing. The Pottery Room will even fire the piece you make and mail it to you later. Another option is trying your hand at dyeing a handkerchief or a scarf using natural indigo dye. Or weave a stole, muffler, or tapestry on one of the six wooden looms. Courses vary in length, with the shortest around 30 minutes.

For more information, please visit the English website:
http://www.town.aya.miyazaki.jp/ayatown/english/Aya%20Town08-04-04/Sightseeing.htm