Kirin Brewery Yokohama

**Reservation strategy:** Tours book out 2–4 weeks ahead for weekends and holidays. Weekdays have better availability (sometimes same-week reservations possible). English tours offered daily (10:30 and 13:30 typical times, verify on website). Book via official Kirin website (English version available) or call reservation line. Tour is free but mandatory reservation — no walk-ins accepted. Confirmation email required at check-in. **Tasting session:** After the factory tour, participants are led to tasting room — counter with high stools, large windows overlooking factory. Each person receives three glasses (200ml each) of beer: Ichiban Shibori (flagship lager, malt-forward flavor), seasonal/limited beer (varies, could be stout, wheat beer, or special batch), and a third choice (usually guest's preference or regional variant). Professional pourers serve beer at optimal temperature and foam ratio. Snacks provided (crackers, nuts) to accompany beer. 20-minute tasting limit is enforced (tour runs on schedule). Designated drivers and under-20s receive non-alcoholic options (soft drinks, alcohol-free beer). **Gift shop:** The factory shop sells Kirin products (beer, merchandise) including factory-exclusive items: fresh bottled beer unavailable in stores (¥300/bottle, same-day bottling), brewery-limited edition glasses and coasters, and Yokohama-factory-only packaging. The fresh beer is worth buying — noticeably different from supermarket bottles due to minimal time between bottling and purchase (less oxidation, brighter flavor). Limit 12 bottles/person. Cash and card accepted.