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Have you ever sipped sake in a place where history breathes through the walls?

Nestled in the heart of Kobe’s famed Nada Gogo sake district lies a secret sake haven—Sanbaiya, a serene sake bar quietly tucked away on the second floor of Sakuramasamune Brewery, which has been crafting sake since 1625.

A Legacy That Flows Through Generations

Sakuramasamune is not just a sake brand—it’s a story passed down from parent to child. For nearly 400 years, this legendary brewery has been a part of Japan’s celebratory moments. Its sake is known for being smooth and approachable, even for first-timers, yet deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.

Sanbaiya: A Hidden Gem You’d Never Know Existed

The second floor of the brewery houses Sanbaiya, a tranquil Japanese sake bar so discreet that even many locals are unaware of it. If you’re a traveler who simply stumbled into the brewery, you’d likely have no idea this cozy bar even exists.

Once inside, you’re welcomed into a calm, minimalist space—perfect for quiet contemplation or relaxed conversation. Here, the staff helps you choose your “cup of the day.”

Savoring the Moment: A Taste of Taruzake

On this visit, the choice was Taruzake—sake aged in cedar barrels.
As I brought the glass to my lips, the gentle aroma of cedar greeted me. The sake itself was smooth and rich, its umami spreading effortlessly across the palate. The cedar’s presence wasn’t overpowering—just a clean, forest-like breeze that lingered softly in the background.

It’s not just the sake that makes this experience special, but the small, joyful conversations with the kurabito (brewery staff). Talking about life, sake, or nothing in particular while sipping such an elegant brew is a reminder of how simple moments can become meaningful.

Make It a Part of Your Journey

If you’re visiting Kobe, don’t miss this unique opportunity.
Visiting Sanbaiya at Sakuramasamune isn’t just about tasting sake—it’s about feeling sake. You engage all five senses: the history you walk through, the aroma of the barrels, the flavor on your tongue, the quiet ambiance, and the warm welcome of the people.

Let this hidden sake bar become a highlight of your Japanese journey.

Extend Your Sake Journey with Us – and Discover Kobe Beef Too

If you’re intrigued by sake culture, why not join one of our Kampai Sake Tours?
We regularly organize guided visits to multiple sake breweries in the Nada Gogo area, including Sakuramasamune, where you’ll learn about brewing traditions, taste various types of sake, and hear stories that bring the culture to life.

Ready to join us? Book your tour here：

https://kampaisaketours.com/guide2/

But Kobe is not just about sake—it’s also the home of world-renowned Kobe Beef.
We’re happy to recommend trusted Kobe beef restaurants where you can enjoy tender cuts grilled to perfection, ideally paired with local sake.

In addition to sake-focused experiences, we also offer customized Kobe tours—from food tastings to artisan workshops and romantic seaside walks. Whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or a solo traveler, we can help design a memorable day just for you.

Let us help you discover the hidden sides of Kobe—with a glass of sake in hand and a taste of world-class beef on your plate.

Have questions or special requests? Contact us here：

https://kampaisaketours.com/contact/

See the Atmosphere for Yourself

Want to get a glimpse of what it feels like to sit inside this hidden sake bar?
Check out our short video on Instagram to feel the calm, elegant atmosphere of Sanbaiya at Sakuramasamune before your visit.
👉 Watch the video on Instagram

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Location:
Sakuramasamune Museum & Brewery
2nd Floor, Sanbaiya Sake Bar
Kobe, Nada Gogo sake district