For instance, have you thought “Who in the world invented this wonderful Otabe? And how is it made?” If so, why not visit their factory and watch the creation process!
There are various open-factories in the Kansai area. Check the spots you want to go to in this article. Just remember that some cites need a reservation in advance. For the detail, it is recommended that you have contact with their HP.
1. Otabe (おたべ)
One of the most popular Kyoto souvenir sweets is Otabe. You’ll enter the factory and try making Otabe by yourself there. Not only will you enjoy watching how Otabe is made, but also how they serve the fresh-made Otabe in the factory. How tasty it will be!
Fee:
free (Making Otabe is charged)
Open:
9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (recommended to visit by 11:00 a.m.)
Access:
10-minute walk from Kintetsu Jujo station
* Reservation is required for joining the tour.
2. Morino Sample (森野サンプル)
If you have been surprised at the quality of food samples in Japan, this is the best place to watch and experience how they are made. The Morino Sample shows inside the factory and also offers the food sample making class.
Fee:
Bento sample making 1500yen~, Sweets sample making 3000yen
(* Sample making class includes the factory tour.)
Open:
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
(* Making class starts 10:00 a.m.~, 1:30 p.m.~, 3:45 p.m.~)
Access:
10-minute walk from JR Hirano station
3. Asahi Akashi Factory (アサヒ飲料明石工場)
From tea to beer, everyone in Japan knows this company “Asahi”. You’ll watch how Mitsuya cider, Jurokucha, and WONDA are made at this Akashi factory. You have the chance to try the fresh-made Mitsuya cider, too.
Fee:
free
Open:
9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Access:
30-minute walk from Sanyo Higashi-Futami station
4. Marukyu-Koyamaen (丸久小山園)
Marukyu Koyamaen is a green tea manufacture based in Uji, Kyoto for over 300 years. At Makishima Factory, you’ll get the introduction of how Matcha is made and evaluated for sale. Also, enjoy the atmosphere of our tea house, and learn how to prepare Matcha. If you are interested in Matcha and other green teas, this factory should be a must-visit place for you.
Fee:
500yen / adult above 15-year-old
Start time:
10:00 a.m.~, 1:30 p.m.~, 3:00 p.m.~
(Closed on weekends, holidays and busy season)
Access:
About 30-minute walk from Kintetsu Mukaijima station,5 min by taxi.
* Reservation is required 4 days in advance.
5. Kobe lampwork glass museum (KOBE とんぼ玉ミュージアム)
Lampwork is a unique form of glasswork whereby a burner melts the glass to shape.
This museum exhibits many kinds of old and modern lampworks, and it is the only one in the world. You’ll not only see the beautiful and exquisite works, but also enjoy making them with a burner. (Another fee is charged.)
Entrance fee:
400yen / adult
Open:
10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Access:
8-minute walk from JR and Hanshin Motomachi station
6. Konpeitou Museum (コンペイトウミュージアム)
Konpeitou is a traditional Japanese sugar snack which came from Portugal in the 16th century. You’ve most likely seen these small stars. This museum shows the production process and how they color and flavor the Konpeitou. Of course, you can take it home, too.
Entrance fee:
1200yen / person (over 2 years old)
Open:
10:00 a.m.~, 2:00 p.m.~
(Not open at weekends.)
Access:
A 5-minute walk from Osaka Metro Yao-Minami station
Did you find a spot you’ll visit?
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* Please note that you may not get a fluent English guide at some of the spots.
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