Located just outside central Matsumoto City, Iwanami Brewery (岩波酒造) is a small, family-run sake brewery known for its traditional brewing methods and rich local flavors. Quietly tucked into a residential neighborhood, it offers an authentic and intimate look at Nagano’s sake culture. For tours that begin at the brewery, the meeting point is directly in front of the Iwanami Sake Brewery entrance. The following information explains how to get there and where to meet your guide.

 

Where is the Meeting Point?

Your guide will be waiting at the front entrance of Iwanami Brewery, which is located on a narrow street in a quiet residential area. Look for the brewery’s sign (岩波酒造) and a traditional wooden building with white plaster walls.

 

How to Get There?

 

  • By Taxi (Recommended)

From Matsumoto Station, a taxi ride takes about 10–15 minutes and costs approximately 2,500 JPY. Tell the driver: “Iwanami Shuzō” or “Iwanami Sake Brewery” （岩波酒造）.

 

  • By Car

From Matsumoto Station or central Matsumoto, it’s about a 10–15 minute drive. Limited parking is available directly in front of the brewery or nearby. For navigation, use Google Maps or your car’s GPS and search for: “Iwanami Shuzō” or “Iwanami Brewery Matsumoto.”

Address: 5159 Satoyamabe, Matsumoto, Nagano 390-0221

 

What’s on Offer at the Meeting Point?

Iwanami Brewery is a working sake brewery with a long local history. At the front of the building, you may see a sugidama (cedar ball) hanging—an old tradition that signals fresh sake production. Tours typically begin at the entrance area, followed by a guided introduction to the brewing process inside.

 

What’s Nearby?

The brewery is located in a quiet residential neighborhood on the edge of Matsumoto City. While there aren’t many shops or restaurants nearby, the area is peaceful and scenic—perfect for a short stroll through the Japanese countryside before or after your visit.

 

And if you’re in the mood for a bit of exploring, consider walking up to Chikato Shrine and the nearby Buddhist temple, Ryūunzankotaku. Both are perched on a forested hillside just a short distance away. These quiet, local sites offer a peaceful atmosphere and lovely views over the town and surrounding rice fields—especially beautiful in spring and autumn.