Come Experience Traditional Japanese Fermentation in the Castle Town of Nakatsu, Kyushu

Your host, a bilingual certified Gut Health Coach, will guide you through the world of Japanese fermentation and cooking.

Choose Your Fermentation Experience in Nakatsu

Love soy sauce? Ever wondered how it’s made? Join my half-day private tour in Nakatsu, Oita—visit a traditional brewery, then cook a vegan-friendly meal with seasonal, local ingredients.

Half-Day Private Fermentation Tour

4-Day Private Japanese Fermented Foods Certificate Course

Are you a health professional or chef ready to master Japanese fermented foods? Join this intensive 4-day certificate course and explore everything from A to Z—including their health benefits.

The Gut Chef Japan Difference

  • Your host, Haruka Kato, is a bilingual certified Gut Health Coach who has previously hosted large cooking classes and half-day retreats.

  • Hosted in the historic castle town of Nakatsu, known for its rich tradition of fermented foods.

  • Small, thoughtfully crafted private tours and certificate courses for a more personal experience.

Who will be your host?

Hi, I’m Haruka! Thanks so much for being here!

I’m based in Nakatsu, Oita, where I specialize in Japanese fermented foods and medicinal cooking.

My time in Vancouver helped me reconnect with Japanese food in a deeper way, and today I share that perspective with travelers from around the world.

How to Plan Your Trip to Nakatsu for This Experience

Where do you host your experiences?

Our fermentation studio is a 25-minute walk from Nakatsu Station (pickup available). Easy access by express train: about 1.5 hours from Fukuoka Airport or 30–45 minutes from Beppu.

Click here to learn more about how to get to our location from Fukuoka airport or Beppu station.

When do you accept bookings for your experiences?

  • Private Fermentation Tour: Every Thursday through Saturday

  • Private Japanese Fermentation Practitioner Certificate Course: Every Wednesday through Saturday

Is it cash only?

  • We accept all major credit cards, as well as Link, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

Do you have any accommodation recommendations in Nakatsu or Beppu?

I’ve put together my guide on where to stay, eat & explore in Nakatsu and Beppu. Click the button below to see what works for you!

See what Haruka is up to on Instagram!