Overview
A 130-Year-Old Brewery Behind Kagawa’s Udon
Founded in 1890 at the foot of Konpira-san in Kotohira, Maruo Brewery has long supported the flavors of Kagawa, the “Udon Prefecture.” Both its dark and light soy sauces are used by udon restaurants in and outside Kagawa. This tour takes you behind the scenes of the region’s food culture.
Historic Buildings of Kotohira
Several buildings on the grounds are registered as National Tangible Cultural Properties, including the Meiji-era West Main House, the Taisho-era East Main House with its traditional mushiko-mado lattice windows, and the West Miso Storehouse, once used as a warm fermentation room. Your guide will show you the exteriors and surroundings and explain their history. Please note that the interiors of the historic storehouses are not open to visitors.
How Soy Sauce and Miso Are Made
Learn about the whole process, from rice, naked barley and soybeans to koji-making, fermentation and aging, and how soy sauce is heated, cooled, filtered and bottled. Your guide introduces each step of production at the brewery. You will also hear about traditional methods such as aging in wooden barrels topped with stones.
Miso Tasting
Most miso sold overseas is rice miso. Here you can compare several varieties, including white miso and soybean miso, and discover how much flavor and color can differ.
Key Points to Know Before Joining
- The experience lasts approximately 90 minutes.
- The tour focuses on the exteriors and surroundings of the historic buildings. Entry into the brewery’s storehouses is not available.
Reviews
“Discovering that my favorite udon shop uses this light soy sauce was a delightful surprise. It’s great to find high-quality ingredients that enhance the experience.”
“I had an amazing time at Ikkuru, where I enjoyed a delicious broth and was greeted by a cheerful staff. It made for a fantastic outing with my friend.”
“This soy sauce has a wonderfully smooth flavor, without any harsh additives, creating a gentle taste that elevates every dish. I’ve fully transitioned from my previous choice to this one.”
“After my first visit to Shikoku, I couldn’t resist bringing home several bottles of the soy sauce from my hotel. It’s truly an irresistible flavor that I’ve come to appreciate.”
“I visited Maruka, a renowned udon restaurant, just to buy this soy sauce that enhances their udon perfectly. It’s a standout product that elevates any meal.”
How to Get There
Train / Subway
665m (0.41mi) from Enai Station - about a 10-minute walk
1.2km (0.76mi) from Kotohira Station
1.4km (0.86mi) from Kotoden-Kotohira Station
1.2km (0.76mi) from Kotohira Station
1.4km (0.86mi) from Kotoden-Kotohira Station
Bus stop
232m (0.14mi) from Enai - about a 4-minute walk
378m (0.23mi) from Kotohira Junior High School - about a 6-minute walk
397m (0.25mi) from Kotohira Junior High School Front - about a 6-minute walk
378m (0.23mi) from Kotohira Junior High School - about a 6-minute walk
397m (0.25mi) from Kotohira Junior High School Front - about a 6-minute walk
Map
94 Enai, Kotohira, Nakatado District, Kagawa 766-0004, Japan
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Things to Do in the Area
Kagawa - A Culinary Paradise with Rich Heritage
Kagawa, Japan’s smallest prefecture, is renowned for its exquisite udon noodles and picturesque scenery. Visitors can enjoy a blend of cultural and natural attractions that showcase the region’s unique charm.
- Ritsurin Garden: This stunning Japanese landscape garden features meticulously designed ponds, lush greenery, and traditional teahouses, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and picturesque photography. The seasonal beauty of Ritsurin, particularly during cherry blossom season, draws visitors year-round.
- Shikoku Mura: An open-air museum that exhibits traditional rural architecture, Shikoku Mura offers a glimpse into the region’s history and culture. Visitors can explore well-preserved buildings and participate in various cultural activities, such as indigo dyeing.
- Kotohira-gu Shrine: This historic Shinto shrine is famous for its impressive staircase of over 1,300 steps leading to the main shrine, dedicated to the deity of seafarers. The serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings provide a spiritual experience and stunning views.
Kotohira - A Journey Through Spiritual and Scenic Wonders
Kotohira, a small town in Kagawa, is famed for its majestic shrine and scenic mountain trails. Visitors come to experience its spiritual ambiance and breathtaking landscapes.
- Konpira-san: The central highlight of Kotohira, this grand shrine dedicated to the god of sailors grants visitors a rewarding hike up a formidable staircase, surrounded by ancient cedar trees. The shrine complex hosts numerous smaller shrines and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Kanamaruza Theater: As Japan’s oldest surviving kabuki theater, Kanamaruza showcases traditional performances and serves as a cultural hub for the arts. Visitors can step back in time and appreciate the unique architectural style while attending a captivating kabuki show.
- Takamatsu Castle: Located near Kotohira, this historic castle offers spectacular views and beautifully landscaped grounds. Though in ruins, its historical significance and serene setting make it an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.