The 唎酒番所 sake tasting stations at Ponshukan's three Niigata station locations are updating their pricing starting July 1, 2026 (Wednesday). The entry fee — five tasting coins — will increase from ¥500 (tax included) to ¥1,000 (tax included). A range of new experience menus will also launch on the same date.
Since the 唎酒番所 first opened at Echigo-Yuzawa Station in 1995, the ¥500 for five coins price had been maintained for 31 years despite repeated rises in operating costs. The latest surge in prices has made it no longer feasible to sustain service quality at the previous rate, prompting the revision.
Evolving into a Space for Experience and Discovery
The updated 唎酒番所 is designed to serve both first-time sake drinkers and enthusiasts, offering richer content to deepen every visit.
Pricing Change Details
Locations: 唎酒番所 at Ponshukan Echigo-Yuzawa Station, Ponshukan Nagaoka Station, and Ponshukan Niigata Station
Effective Date: July 1, 2026 (Wednesday)
Change: Five tasting coins (唎酒コイン 5枚) will change from ¥500 (tax included) to ¥1,000 (tax included)
New Experience Menus (from July 1, 2026)
Themed Tasting Courses
The tasting machines feature 129 varieties at Echigo-Yuzawa Station and 111 varieties at the Niigata and Nagaoka Station locations. From July 1, 50 recommended tasting courses will be available to guide guests through the selection. Themes include regional groupings, flavor profiles, and creative categories such as "First-Time Sake," "Pairs Well with Cheese," "Coastal Brewery vs. Mountain Brewery," and "Battle of Crispness."
Sake Concierge
A 唎酒 concierge will be stationed at each location to assist with label selection and enhance the overall tasting experience. (The concierge may not be available at all times.)
Food Pairing Experience
Each location will offer food items paired with specific sake labels. Guests choose a sake from the tasting machines, and the recommended food pairing is suggested. Note: coins are required for the food items.
Sake Vessel Comparison
Guests select two vessels from four available types and taste the same sake in each to experience how vessel shape influences aroma and flavor.
New service and experience options will continue to be added going forward.
