Nara Izumi Yūsai Review Summary

Amazing experience! The owner was very enthusiastic and made us try many different sake from Nara. I really got a much better understanding of different kinds of Sake. You can feel the owner and the (mostly local) guests are really knowledgeable and dedicated!

I personally didn't like half the sakes I tasted... But that's because I was trying non traditional stuff, which was the point of coming here. Great place to come. It did not appear that they sell food or water. So be sure to eat something and bring a bottle of water....

We recently took a trip to Japan at the end of October/early November. We decided to take a private, guided tour of Nara. It’s such a remarkable city with amazing locals. Our guide Taku was so amazing and made our trip very memorable. I was the only person in our group that drank alcohol so he told me we HAD to try a sake tasting at his favorite place. The owner greeted us kindly behind the small standing bar. It comfortably could hold about 5-7 people. The other side of this small room is an area with shelves and coolers where you can purchase local sake bottles. We tasted three sakes of varying styles and all were AMAZING. Crystal clear, smooth and fresh. Nara’s sake is the best. This place is a must go. However our guide did all the talking so being fluent in Japanese is a must.

Small, traditional sake shop offering sake tastings per glass/bottle. Extremely friendly owner, easy communication through goodwill and an english menu available (informing about the differences in sake varieties). Tasted a couple of different sakes on a glass for ~ 900¥. Funky as an experience even.

The sake tasting was a stand-out incredible experience in a place that prides itself on incredible experiences. If you love sake and Nara you've hit paydirt. The owner was friendly and passionate about his products. Leave room in your bags for the bottles you will definitely be bringing back. Will for sure be back!