Guida
The Sapporo Beer Kyushu Hita Brewery, located in Hita City, Oita Prefecture, serves as a major production hub for Sapporo Beer in Western Japan. This facility offers more than just a standard brewery tour; it features the 'Hita Mori Beer Garden,' where visitors can taste beer that has been freshly produced at the very site. Surrounded by the abundant natural water and greenery of Hita, you can connect with the history and sophisticated brewing techniques of the Sapporo brand while enjoying the serene environment.
Sapporo Breweries, with its origins in the Sapporo Brewery founded in 1876 in Sapporo, Hokkaido, is one of Japan's most historic beer makers. The iconic five-pointed star (pentagram) symbol is derived from the crest of the Kaitakushi (the former development commission of Hokkaido). The Kyushu Hita Brewery, inheriting the role of a production base once centered in Osaka, now plays a vital role in supplying Western Japan. It is a place where local culture and the history of Japan's modern industrial development seamlessly blend.
The greatest attraction is the adjacent 'Hita Mori Beer Garden.' Here, you can enjoy freshly delivered products like 'Black Label' and 'Yebisu Beer.' The beer garden is divided into three distinct zones, with terrace seating offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Hita City. In addition to the beer, the menu features local delicacies such as the famous Hita tofu, known for its quality in this water-rich region. The brewery tour itself provides a detailed look into the meticulous process of how beer is crafted.
The terrace seats at Hita Mori Beer Garden are highly recommended during pleasant weather or during seasonal transitions. Enjoying a beer under a clear blue sky in such an open atmosphere is a revitalizing experience. The view from the terrace is particularly beautiful during times of soft sunlight, offering a relaxing, resort-like atmosphere. Depending on the season, the facility also provides a more calm and subdued atmosphere for evening visits.
Through the brewery tour (advance reservation recommended), you can learn the intricate steps of the beer-making process. Following the tour, tasting the products at the Beer Garden allows you to experience the brand through both knowledge and taste. A unique activity here is pairing the beer with local flavors, such as the delicious tofu made with Hita's pristine water, creating a complete sensory experience of the region.
The area surrounding the Sapporo Beer Kyushu Hita Brewery is rich in tourism resources. A short 15-minute drive takes you to 'Mateda Town,' famous for its preserved historical streetscapes. Other nearby hot spring areas include Amase Onsen (approx. 20 mins) and Tsutetsuki Onsen (approx. 30 mins). Additionally, the location offers easy access to Yabakei (Ao no Komon) and via highways to the famous Yufuin and Beppu areas, making it a very convenient base for exploring Kyushu.
The facility is a modern and clean establishment, so casual attire is perfectly fine. However, for the brewery tour and when using the terrace, comfortable clothing is recommended. Regarding payment, please check the official website for the latest restaurant information, though it functions as a standard restaurant. For safety and hygiene, visitors experiencing fever or feeling unwell are requested to refrain from visiting. If you plan to use the terrace, it is wise to bring a light jacket to prepare for any changes in weather.