Ok, I did a bit more looking and found something that might interest your hubby regarding sake-making. If you invest in Diane Durston's book "Kyoto:Seven Paths to the Heart of the City," you will find detailed directions for a half-day walking tour of the sake-making area of Fushimi, outside of Kyoto. The description includes detailed walking directions with map, places to see - including a museum and distillery, rail lines to use and station locations - everything you need to get there from Kyoto. Unfortunately, the prime time for sake-making is mid-winter, but it would still be a nice half-day trip.

Frankly, Durston's book is one of the gold standards for visitors to Kyoto and is a beautifully photographed coffe table book even for those who are not interested in the guides. Available in most large book stores and via Amazon.com or BarnesandNoble.com. Very highly recommended.

JR