3 Best Yakult Experiences Near Tokyo

Written by Carey Finn

Researched by Jane Pipkin

There are a number of places around Japan where you can learn more about the popular probiotic drink Yakult, but we have handpicked three favorites. Get ready for two totally different Yakult factory tours near Tokyo, plus a laidback café.

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1.Yakult Ibaraki Plant

Approx. 1 hour 10 min from Shinjuku

Free

Tour conducted in Japanese, some written English translations

For the classic Yakult experience, head to this factory for a fun tour. You’ll learn all about the history and health benefits of the drink, and get a look at how it’s made. The tour includes a free Yakult, as well as a small bag of souvenirs to take home with you.

Sumo Morning Practice Tour at Stable in Tokyo

Try this insider’s experience at a sumo wrestler morning practice session. Enjoy exclusive access to a sumo stable, watching as these massive athletes put themselves through their daily training regimen and go head-to-head.

Click here for details

Note: Advance reservations are necessary. The tour is conducted in Japanese, but there are English subtitles on the video played, as well as English signage around the factory. It is definitely more enjoyable if you can understand some Japanese, though — consider enlisting the help of an interpreter or fluent friend, if not.

Yakult Ibaraki Plant

Address:1232-2 Kawatsuma, Goka, Sashima District, Ibaraki

Hours:8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mon-Sat; Closed on Sun

Admission:Free

2. Yakult Gohonmaru Cafe & Gallery

Approx. 2 hours from Shinjuku

¥500–¥3,000

English menu available

If you are heading to Tochigi Prefecture or surrounds, we recommend stopping off at the Yakult Gohonmaru Cafe & Gallery in Utsunomiya. It’s a chill place with Yakult ice cream, Yakult-infused tiramisu and cream bagels, Yakult cookies, and a range of regular menu items like lunches and drinks.

There is also a beauty salon on the premises, where you can book (in advance) a facial to see what the Yakult line of cosmetics is all about.

Yakult Cafe & Gallery (Gohonmaru)

Yakult Cafe in Utsunomiya with castle in background

Japanese:ヤクルト御本丸 "カフェ＆ギャラリー"

Address:1-43 Honmarumachi, Utsunomiya, Tochigi

Phone:

050-8892-8986

Hours:10 a.m. to 7 p.m., closed Wednesdays

3. Yakult Honsha Shonan Cosmetics Factory

Approx. 1 hour 20 min from Shinjuku

Free

Japanese-language only; interpreter and special booking required for non-Japanese-speakers

This experience is a little more niche. It’s another Yakult factory tour — but this one is all about skincare products. The Yakult Honsha Shonan Cosmetics Factory in Fujisawa City, Kanagawa, is the HQ of its cosmetics range — Yakult Beautiens.

Here, you can learn about the development and variety of Yakult’s skincare products, see the production line, and even ask the floor manager some questions. You’ll also experience a hands-on tutorial on optimal skincare techniques, trying out some of the Yakult Beautiens products. Included in the tour are free Yakult drinks, as well as a goodie bag of skincare product samples to take home.

Important: Advance online reservations are required. Unfortunately, this tour is conducted entirely in Japanese — you will need to arrange an interpreter to accompany you, and book using a different method (telephonic) if you cannot speak Japanese.