A Unique Day Trip from Tokyo

Introduction: A Beer Adventure You Didn’t Know You Needed

Hey there! If you’re looking for something unique to do near Tokyo, let me tell you about my recent trip to the Asahi Super Dry Museum in Ibaraki. It’s not just a museum—it’s an experience. Think high-tech displays, beer tasting (yes, free beer!), and even a souvenir glass to take home. Whether you’re a beer lover or just someone who enjoys quirky adventures, this place has something for everyone.

Let me walk you through how to book your visit, get there, and what to expect—plus my honest thoughts on whether it’s worth your time.

Why Visit the Asahi Super Dry Museum?

First off, why should you even bother? Well, here’s why:

• Interactive Exhibits: This isn’t your typical “read a plaque and move on” kind of museum. It’s packed with media art, moving displays, and even a 4D ride.
• Beer Tasting: Picture this—you’re sipping on two glasses of freshly brewed Asahi Super Dry beer in a sleek tasting room. Heaven, right?
• Free Souvenir: They give you an exclusive Asahi glass to take home. Who doesn’t love free stuff?

Honestly, I went in thinking it would be just another brewery tour. Nope! It was way more immersive and fun than I expected.

How to Book Your Visit to the Asahi Super Dry Museum

Booking your tour is super easy and can be done online via the official website. Here’s what you need to know:

• Ticket Prices: Adults: ¥1,000; Children (elementary school age and above): ¥300.
• Payment: Tickets are purchased on-site at the ticket machine in the main hall.
• Reservation Process:
  • Visit the official website.

ツアーのお申し込み | スーパードライ ミュージアム | アサヒビール

アサヒビール茨城工場、「スーパードライ」のうまさをご体験いただく「スーパードライ ミュージアム」。ミュージアムツアーで「スーパードライ」の品質・鮮度・世界観を体験し、できたての「スーパードライ」を味わっていただけます。

アサヒビール

• Select your preferred date and time.
• Complete your reservation (no upfront payment required).

How to Get to the Asahi Super Dry Museum

#From Tokyo to Moriya Station

I took the Tsukuba Express train from Tokyo to Moriya Station.

#From Moriya Station to the Museum

Once you arrive at Moriya Station:

1. Head to the designated bus stop near the station and look for the Asahi Tour Bus signs.
2. The shuttle ride takes about 15 minutes to reach the museum.

What to Expect at the Asahi Super Dry Museum Tour

#Arrival and Waiting Area

Upon arrival:

• Use the ticket machine in the main hall to print your tickets.
• While waiting for your scheduled tour time, explore the lobby exhibits or shop for souvenirs.

#Guided Tour Highlights

The tour is about 80 minutes long and broken into three parts:

1. A 10-minute video presentation that feels like watching a movie trailer for beer.
2. A 50-minute walkthrough of interactive exhibits featuring brewing equipment, media art displays, and even a 4D ride that made me feel like I was inside a beer commercial. Plus, I got to enjoy the cool views of the brewery factory itself!
3. A 20-minute beer tasting session, where you can enjoy two glasses of Asahi Super Dry paired with salty pretzels and cheese.

#The Tasting Experience

The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the beer tasting session at the end! Here’s what you get:

• Two glasses of Asahi Super Dry beer
• Snacks: Salty pretzels and cheese

You can refill your glass once but note that you only have 20 minutes for this session—so drink up quickly! For non-drinkers or minors, alcoholic beverages are not served.

As someone who isn’t a beer expert, I found it surprisingly tasty—clean, refreshing, with that signature karakuchi flavor they emphasize so much during the tour!

Honest Review: What Stood Out?

#Pros:

• Immersive Displays: The museum isn’t just about static exhibits—it’s packed with dynamic visuals, changing lights, and interactive elements that keep you engaged throughout the tour.

• Beer Tasting: You know.. Freshly brewed beer tastes so much better than anything from a can or bottle. Also, the tasting room offers a relaxed atmosphere with great views, making it an ideal spot to savor freshly brewed beer.

• Freebies: The Souvenir Glass Cup: One of my main reasons for visiting. haha

#Cons:

• Language Barrier: Most explanations are in Japanese, so non-speakers may miss some details unless using the audio guide app available at the lobby.

• Short Tasting Time: The 20-minute tasting session feels a bit rushed if you want to fully enjoy two glasses of beer.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting?

If you’ve never visited a Japanese brewery before or are curious about how Asahi creates its iconic Super Dry beer, this tour is definitely worth it! The combination of interactive exhibits, free souvenirs, and beer tasting makes it a unique experience near Tokyo.

However, if you’re not particularly interested in beer or prefer more traditional sightseeing spots, this might not be for you.

For those considering other options nearby, Suntory also offers brewery tours—but keep in mind that Asahi provides that coveted souvenir glass!

Thanks for reading this far! If you have any questions about visiting the Asahi Super Dry Museum or planning a day trip from Tokyo, feel free to ask in the comments. I’m happy to help!

If you’re interested in more unique experiences near Tokyo, check out my guide on Kitasenju’s hidden gem. It’s perfect for anime fans and anyone looking for a peaceful escape from the city.

Cheers!🍻