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Tawaramoto

Guests frequently praise the unique experience of staying in a historic soy sauce brewery, the quality of the meals incorporating local ingredients, and the warm hospitality provided by the staff.

Discover nipponia tawaramoto maruto shoyu in nara japan: a unique culinary and cultural retreat 

Nestled in the scenic town of Tawaramoto, Nara Prefecture, the Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu offers an unforgettable blend of rich tradition and exquisite cuisine. This exceptional destination is not just a restaurant but a historic soy sauce brewery turned boutique hotel where guests immerse themselves in centuries-old craftsmanship while enjoying modern comforts. With its beautifully renovated old folk house ambiance and tranquil courtyard views, it is a perfect getaway for food enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and travelers seeking an authentic Japanese experience.

immersive soy sauce heritage and unique dining experiences

At the heart of this charming establishment lies a working soy sauce storehouse where guests can participate in pressing fresh soy sauce and savor its rich flavors poured over traditional dishes such as fried kudzu mochi. The restaurant proudly serves meticulously crafted dishes using various forms of soy sauce, including raw soy sauce, moromi sake lees, lemon soy sauce, and even caramel soy sauce. Local Yamato vegetables and meats from the Totsukawa watershed are thoughtfully incorporated, creating a delicate balance of taste that delights the palate.

 highlights the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and quality, making it a must-visit for discerning gourmets.

Guests staying overnight enjoy a thoughtfully renovated space that preserves the old features of the brewery, providing a nostalgic yet comfortable atmosphere. Morning walks to nearby shrines guided by the family head add a spiritual dimension to the visit, while the attentive service and tasteful surroundings create a peaceful retreat. Breakfast and dinner both feature high-standard dishes highlighting soy sauce in its many forms, showcasing the culinary artistry of the region.

 with multi-course meals featuring local ingredients and exclusive soy sauce varieties.

 that connects guests to traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

 with peaceful courtyard views perfect for relaxation and photography.

 including English menus and staff assistance for international visitors.

frequently asked questions about nipponia tawaramoto maruto shoyu

What is the check-in time at NIPPONIA Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu?

 Check-in is from 15:00 to 18:00. For the soy sauce pressing experience, check-in by 16:30 is required.

How can I get to NIPPONIA Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu from Kintetsu Tawaramoto Station?

 A 10-minute taxi ride from the station will take you to the property. A complimentary shuttle is available for guests arriving between 15:00 and 16:00.

Is there an English menu available at the restaurant?

 Yes, the restaurant provides an English menu and English-speaking staff to assist guests.

Visitors to Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu consistently express positive sentiments about their experience. They highlight the unique opportunity to engage with the history of soy sauce brewing, the exceptional quality and creativity of the meals, and the warm, welcoming hospitality of the staff. Many describe the atmosphere as relaxing and picturesque, making it an ideal destination for those looking to connect deeply with Japanese culture and cuisine.

Asia

Japan

Nestled in the heart of Tawaramoto, Nara, Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience steeped in tradition. This charming establishment, housed in a historic soy sauce brewery, invites guests to explore the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine, all while enjoying the serene ambiance of its beautifully renovated space. As you step inside, the aroma of freshly brewed soy sauce fills the air, instantly transporting you to a world where culinary artistry meets history.

At Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu, the menu is a celebration of local ingredients and traditional techniques. One standout dish is the "Kishi TAGA course," a meticulously crafted seven-course meal featuring exquisite items like raw soy sauce, moromi sake lees, and caramel soy sauce. Each bite is a revelation, showcasing the depth of flavor that can only come from high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Another must-try is the fried kudzu mochi, drizzled with freshly squeezed soy sauce, offering a delightful contrast of textures and tastes.

The history of this establishment is as rich as its flavors. Originally a soy sauce brewery, the building has been lovingly restored to preserve its heritage while providing a modern dining experience. Guests are often treated to stories from the owner about the origins of the brewery and the meticulous process of soy sauce production, adding a personal touch to each visit.

What is Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu known for?

This restaurant is renowned for its exquisite soy sauce dishes, particularly the Kishi TAGA course, which highlights the unique flavors of locally sourced ingredients.

Visitors can immerse themselves in a unique dining experience that combines history, culture, and exceptional cuisine, all in a tranquil setting.

The restaurant serves both lunch and dinner, featuring a variety of courses that highlight the best of local ingredients and traditional soy sauce.

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or simply looking for a unique dining experience, Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu promises to deliver an unforgettable journey through the flavors of Japan. Make your reservation today and indulge in a meal that celebrates the art of soy sauce and the beauty of local ingredients.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzejRTbzlnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAQDw-JozAWARb9QpD5VRQhE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUMzejRTbzlnRRAB

Relaxing, perfect atmosphere, a real holiday.  Quality food.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6N3RTSDhnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAQDw-JozAWARb9QpD5VRQhE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6N3RTSDhnRRAB

本当に素晴らしいホテルでした。
ただ、泊まるのではなく、
この地にかける思いや体験、歴史を感じることができます。
15時チェックイン後、当主による醤油蔵の歴史、由来、エピソード等の説明があり、
醤油搾りの体験ができます。体験後は、その搾りたての醤油を焼いた葛餅にかけて食べることができます。
夕食、朝食ともにハイレベルで、いろんな形の醤油やもろみをつかった食事でした。
朝は7時から近隣の神社への当主の解説を聞きながらの散歩。部屋も古い場所を残しつつ美しくリノベされています。どの場所もセンス良く、絵になる光景でした。
おすすめできます

It was a really great hotel.
Rather than just staying the night,
You can feel the thoughts, experiences, and history of this place.
After checking in at 15:00, the owner will explain the history, origin, and episodes of the soy sauce brewery.
You can experience making soy sauce. After the experience, you can eat the freshly squeezed soy sauce poured over the fried kudzu mochi.
Both dinner and breakfast were of a high standard, using various forms of soy sauce and mash.
In the morning, from 7 a.m., we went for a walk to a nearby shrine while listening to commentary from the head of the family. The rooms have been beautifully renovated while retaining the old features. Every place was tasteful and picturesque.
I can recommend it

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNoNnFqQnJRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAQDw-JozAWARb9QpD5VRQhE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNoNnFqQnJRRRAB

ミシュラングリーンスターを獲得しているこちらのお店。醤油の蔵があり、こだわりの醤油をいただけるとこのとでGoogleのクチコミ評価はなんと4.6⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️期待値高めに行ってきました！

▶︎箍 TAGAコース(全7品) ¥5,500
・醤油餡
・生醤油
・もろみ酒粕
・赤ワイン照焼き
・レモン醤油
・もろみ粕
・キャラメル醤油
メニュー表は料理名ではなく
こだわりの醤油名が書かれている徹底ぶり👀
聞いた事のない大和野菜や、一品一品丁寧に作られている料理にお口の中は幸せだ🥰店主の方が挨拶に来てくれたり接客も🙆‍♀️落ち着いた雰囲気なので、ファミリーというよりは、熟年夫婦とかにぜひ行って欲しい。笑 予約は必須です！

This restaurant has earned a Michelin Green Star. There is a soy sauce storehouse, and you can enjoy carefully selected soy sauce.The Google review rating is 4.6⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️I went there with high expectations!

▶︎Kishi TAGA course (7 items in total) ¥5,500
・Soy sauce paste
・Raw soy sauce
・Moromi sake lees
・Red wine teriyaki
・Lemon soy sauce
・Moromi lees
・Caramel soy sauce
Menu table is not the name of the dish
It's so thorough that the name of the special soy sauce is written on it👀
Your mouth will be happy with the Yamato vegetables that you have never heard of and the carefully prepared dishes one by one 🥰 The owner comes to greet you and the customer service 🙆‍♀️ It's a calm atmosphere, so it's more like a family. I would definitely recommend this place to middle-aged couples. LOL Reservations are required!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURCaF9XNHl3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAQDw-JozAWARb9QpD5VRQhE/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURCaF9XNHl3RRAB

素材と醤油を活かした抜群の組合せで
めちゃ美味しかった。
古民家的な感じで中庭を眺めらが
食事ができるよ
今回は、ランチで5500円
宿泊もできますぅ
また、行きたくなるような癒やし＆美味な
場所でーす。

An outstanding combination that takes advantage of the ingredients and soy sauce.
It was so delicious.
It feels like an old folk house with a view of the courtyard.
I can eat
This time, lunch is 5500 yen.
You can also stay overnight.
In addition, we offer soothing and delicious food that will make you want to go.
It's a place.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURtOWJmcUdREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJAQDw-JozAWARb9QpD5VRQhE/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURtOWJmcUdREAE

以前から気になっていた【蔵元料理マルトモ醤油】さんにランチに行きました。

十津川分水が育まれた大和野菜と大和肉。
シェフが創作、もろみと生醤油で料理された繊細な味わい😀特に最後のデザート大和大豆【大鉄砲豆富】で作った豆腐(美味しいかったです。接客気づかいも😀

地酒の種類も豊富です。
LUNCH
『箍』TAGA••７品 / 5500円 (税込)

『楷』KAI •• ６品 / 3800円(税込)

DINNER
『藤』FUJI ••8品/ 10.000円　(税込)

I went to [Kuramoto Cuisine Marutomo Soy Sauce] for lunch, which I had been interested in for a while.

Yamato vegetables and meat grown in the Totsukawa watershed.
Created by the chef, it has a delicate taste cooked with moromi and raw soy sauce 😀 Especially the last dessert, tofu made with Yamato soybeans [Daiteppou Totomi] (It was delicious. The customer service was also attentive 😀

There is also a wide variety of local sake.
LUNCH
“Shin” TAGA••7 items / 5,500 yen (tax included)

“Kai” KAI •• 6 dishes / 3800 yen (tax included)

DINNER
“Wisteria” FUJI ••8 items / 10,000 yen (tax included)

Experience Fine Dining at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu, Nara

Maruto Shoyu, established in 1689, is Nara's oldest soy sauce brewery. After ceasing operations post-World War II, it was revitalized in 2020 by the 18th-generation owner, Hiroyuki Kimura, who rediscovered the family's traditional soy sauce recipe and yeast. The establishment now offers accommodations and dining experiences that connect guests with Nara's heritage.

Historical Overview of Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu in Nara, Japan.

Nestled in the heart of Tawaramoto, Nara, the Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu represents a rich tapestry of tradition, culture, and culinary excellence. Founded in 1689, it proudly holds the title of Nara's oldest soy sauce brewery, a testament to the region's long-standing culinary heritage. The establishment has undergone a remarkable journey, marked by resilience and revival.

1689: Maruto Shoyu was founded as Nara's oldest soy sauce brewery.

1940: Operations ceased due to post-war difficulties.

2020: Revitalized by the 18th-generation owner, Hiroyuki Kimura, who rediscovered the traditional recipe and yeast.

In 1940, the brewery faced severe challenges as post-war difficulties forced it to cease operations. For decades, the legacy of Maruto Shoyu lay dormant, a shadow of its former glory amid the changing tides of time.

However, in 2020, a remarkable revival began under the stewardship of the 18th-generation owner, Hiroyuki Kimura. With a deep reverence for his family’s heritage, Hiroyuki embarked on a journey to rediscover the traditional soy sauce recipe and unique yeast that defined Maruto Shoyu. This revitalization not only marked a return to the roots of the brewery but also transformed it into a culinary destination that offers immersive dining experiences and accommodations, inviting guests to connect with Nara's rich historical fabric.

Visiting Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu offers more than just a meal; it is an invitation to experience the essence of Nara’s culinary culture. Guests can participate in hands-on soy sauce making, enjoy expertly crafted dishes that utilize local ingredients, and savor the distinct flavors that define the region. As you walk through the beautifully restored spaces, you can feel the stories of the past echoing around you, creating a unique connection between history and contemporary dining.

Dine In

Takeout

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

In the quaint town of Tawaramoto, Japan, an exceptional culinary gem awaits at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu, where tradition flows as smoothly as the rich soy sauce it produces. This remarkable establishment transcends the ordinary dining experience, immersing guests in the artistry of Japanese cuisine, paired beautifully with the deep, umami flavors of its famed soy sauce. Enjoy seasonal dishes bursting with freshness, each meticulously paired with different varieties of soy sauce, highlighting the delicate balance of flavors.

蔵元料理 マルト醤油／NIPPONIA 田原本 マルト醤油

Experience innovative dishes incorporating locally harvested organic vegetables, Yamato pork, and soy sauce. The menu changes eight times a year to complement the seasons.

Fresh Soy Sauce Sashimi

Figs, Unrefined Soy Sauce Lees, and Yamato Beef

Claypot Rice with Edamame and Hairy Crab

Sample Menu

Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu menu overview

Nestled in the heart of Nara's Shiki District, Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu offers a captivating culinary journey that perfectly marries traditional soy sauce craftsmanship with innovative Japanese cuisine. The menu highlights the richness of locally harvested organic vegetables and premium Yamato pork, with seasonal changes eight times annually to ensure freshness and variety.

Though the main spotlight is on the mains, guests can indulge in unique soy sauce-infused starters such as fresh soy sauce sashimi, showcasing fresh fish from Osaka’s market paired with vibrant, home-grown vegetables like daikon radish, Malabar spinach, and okra. The delicate balance of flavors offers a refreshing introduction to the meal.

The mains at Maruto Shoyu are a true testament to the fine art of soy sauce cuisine. Delight in the Fresh Soy Sauce Sashimi, featuring pristine fish from Osaka's renowned market matched with freshly picked local vegetables, delivering umami in every bite. Another standout is the Figs, Unrefined Soy Sauce Lees, and Yamato Beef—an inspired fusion where tender Yamato beef harmonizes with sweet figs and the rich depth of unrefined soy sauce lees. For rice lovers, the Claypot Rice with Edamame and Hairy Crab offers a comforting, aromatic dish combining Hinohikari rice, garden-fresh edamame, succulent hairy crab, and a savory touch of unrefined soy sauce lees.

Desserts at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu are crafted to gently conclude your meal with subtle sweetness and soy sauce nuances. Savor delicacies such as tofu made from special Yamato soybeans called Daiteppou Totomi, which offers a smooth texture and delicate taste, perfectly complementing the restaurant’s signature flavors.

Complement your meal with an impressive variety of local sake, carefully curated to enhance the soy sauce-forward cuisine. The restaurant also offers beer and other beverages, perfect for pairing with the diverse flavors found throughout the menu.

For an immersive culinary experience, the restaurant offers meticulously crafted tasting menus that showcase seven to eight courses highlighting their signature soy sauce varieties such as soy sauce paste, raw soy sauce, moromi sake lees, red wine teriyaki, lemon soy sauce, and caramel soy sauce. These courses are thoughtfully paired with rare Yamato vegetables and traditional ingredients to create balanced and memorable meals. The calm and refined atmosphere makes it especially appealing for food connoisseurs and couples seeking an intimate dining experience.

Fresh fish from Osaka’s market accompanied by home-grown vegetables such as daikon radish and Malabar spinach.

Figs, Unrefined Soy Sauce Lees, and Yamato Beef: 

A creative main dish combining tender Yamato beef with sweet figs and the rich flavor of unrefined soy sauce lees.

Claypot Rice with Edamame and Hairy Crab: 

Hinohikari rice simmered with fresh edamame, succulent hairy crab, and unrefined soy sauce lees for depth.

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu in Nara. Experience unique flavors and culture—reserve your table today!

Authentic Japanese Dining in Tawaramoto, Nara

Tawaramoto Municipality

Guests can participate in a soy sauce pressing activity, extracting soy sauce from moromi (fermenting mash), offering a hands-on encounter with fermentation culture.

Soy Sauce Pressing Experience

Guided morning walks to nearby Muraya Shrine, providing historical insights into the area.

Shrine Visit

Discover Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu: A Unique Culinary and Cultural Experience in Nara Japan.

Nestled in the picturesque town of Tawaramoto within Nara Prefecture, Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu offers visitors an extraordinary blend of traditional Japanese culture and sophisticated cuisine centered around the art of soy sauce.

Authentic Soy Sauce Craftsmanship and Hands-On Experiences

At the heart of Maruto Shoyu is the soy sauce brewery, where you can witness centuries-old fermentation techniques intact. Visitors enjoy a fascinating 

 where you participate in extracting fresh soy sauce from fermenting moromi mash. This immersive activity reveals the delicate craftsmanship behind this iconic Japanese flavor, providing a truly unique cultural connection.

Exquisite Dining Showcasing Regional Ingredients and Soy Sauce Artistry

The restaurant experience at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu is elevated by innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced Yamato vegetables and meat raised in the nearby Totsukawa watershed. Each course expertly incorporates various forms of soy sauce—from raw to caramelized varieties—creating a symphony of flavors that highlight the versatility of this treasured condiment.

 underscores the exceptional quality and sustainability of the cuisine here. Guests can savor tasting menus such as the “TAGA” course, featuring seven meticulously prepared dishes, or the more intimate “KAI” six-dish option, all paired beautifully with a selection of local sake.

Immersive Cultural Journeys and Relaxing Stays

Beyond dining, visitors can deepen their appreciation through a guided morning stroll to the nearby Muraya Shrine, where the history and spiritual heritage of this region are brought vividly to life. The 

 tours offer fascinating commentary, enhancing every step with local stories and traditions.

For those wishing to immerse themselves completely, the beautifully renovated traditional rooms provide restful overnight accommodation within this historical soy sauce brewery setting. Guests comment on the perfect harmony of old-world charm and modern comfort, making each stay a rejuvenating escape.

Key highlights at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu

 - Hands-on activity extracting fresh soy sauce from fermenting moromi mash, connecting you with traditional Japanese fermentation culture.

 - Enjoy creative, soy sauce-centered courses crafted from local Yamato vegetables and meats, paired with fine regional sake.

 - Morning walks with rich historical commentary to Muraya Shrine, enriching your stay with local heritage.

 - Beautifully renovated rooms that maintain historic charm, providing a peaceful retreat within the soy sauce brewery.

Nara Prefecture

Discover unique dining at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu. Savor gourmet dishes made with fresh local ingredients & enjoy a soy sauce pressing experience. Book now!

Experience Luxury Dining at Nipponia Tawaramoto

Learn about Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu's rich history & offerings, including accommodation and culinary experiences. Plan your visit today!

Explore Tawaramoto: A Guide to Nipponia Shoyu

Founded in 1689, the historic Maruto Shoyu invites you to experience authentic Japanese culture through soy sauce brewing and gourmet dining. Discover more!

Experience Fine Dining at Nipponia Tawaramoto Maruto Shoyu, Nara

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