The Niigata Sakenojin has been running annually since 2004, and offers visitors a chance to enjoy Niigata based sake varieties and regional foods. Over the two day event, around 500 different brews are available to sample, alongside stage shows and informative seminars to learn more about the process involved in producing the iconic beverage.
Niigata sake is unique in that the brews produced here use the center of the rice grain, which has a purer starch quality. Previous years' events have had in excess of 100,000 attendees, giving some indication as to how well the region's sake is regarded.
Admission to the event itself is free of charge, but if you would like to sample some of the brews on offer, a one day ticket for unlimited tastings is 2500 yen. Drink responsibly!
Getting there
The Niigata Sakenojin is held at the Toki Messe Convention Center. The center is just over 20 minutes on foot from Niigata Station. Alternatively, you can get on the Sadokisen bus from Niigata Station and get off at the Toki Messe stop. Taxis are also available.
