Going on a Japan whiskey tour is a great way for whiskey admirers to get into this hobby. Japanese whiskey is known worldwide for its distinctive flavours, attention to detail, and precise blending – it’s more than just an alcoholic beverage, but a work of art. Japanese distilleries have created unique liquors that stick out in the world of whiskey, combining traditional Scottish methods with Japanese precision.
If you’re planning a trip, you can easily book a visit to famous distilleries in Japan. Each distillery offers tours of its manufacturing methods and gives you the chance to try their unique blends.
Japanese distilleries offer a fascinating range of experiences, from historic landmarks to innovative experiences. For example, you have the historic Suntory Yamazaki factory, Japan’s first malt whiskey factory, opening in 1923. On the other hand, the modern Chichibu Distillery is known for its excellent, small-batch whiskeys.
In this article, we have a list of the best distilleries in Japan to visit. We’ll explain what they have to offer and what to expect if you book a tour with them. Visiting a Japanese distillery will help you understand the diligence and expertise that go into making Japanese whiskey.
Whiskey Tasting Experiences in Japan
A visit to a Japanese distillery will include trying out a number of different types of whisky, with each concoction having distinct flavours and aromas. The intimate connection between Japanese nature and these distinct flavors and aromas is highlighted, showing how the natural elements influence the craftsmanship behind the whiskies. This is accompanied by narrations behind the brand and its whiskeys, showing how these are made.
Of course, during your visit to the Japanese distillery, expect to drink a lot of the samples you’re offered! Make sure to come on a full stomach so as to be able to take it.
Flavours and Types of Whisky

Image credit: The Japanese Bar
There’s an extensive selection of whiskies made in Japan, showcasing diverse flavor profiles from smooth and subtle to strong and smokey. Some examples are the single malts from the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, which are known for having rich but refined flavours that often include fruity and woody notes. On the other hand, Nikka Yoichi Distillery makes whisky the traditional Scottish way: powerful and peaty. Finding out how each company creates their whiskey is one of the main charms of going on a Japanese whiskey tour.
How is Japanese Whiskey Made?

Image credit: Suntory
A booking at one of these Japanese distilleries usually includes an in-depth tour of each stage the whiskey goes through. Visitors can see all the careful steps that are taken, from choosing the best raw materials to fermenting, distilling, and ageing the alcohol. On this note, the Suntory Hakushu Distillery, uses clean water sourced from the Southern Japanese Alps, which gives their whisky notes of herbs and freshness.
Japanese whiskey is known for having a good balance of flavours. This is often achieved by mixing various malts and grains together. Innovative methods, like ageing in Mizunara oak casks, give the liquor distinct flavours, such as sandalwood and coconut.
We’re barely scratching the surface here, as a tour at one of Japan’s many distilleries will tell you all you need to know. Who knows, maybe you won’t just want that Strong Zero from the konbini anymore!
Planning Your Japan Whiskey Tour

Image credit: Royal Batch
Planning ahead is important before going on a Japan whiskey tour. Follow these tips to make sure that everything goes down as smoothly as Japanese whiskey itself!
Firstly, many distilleries, like the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, need to be scheduled ahead of time. Pre-booking is very much recommended a few weeks in advance, especially during peak months to secure your visit. The best times to embark on a Japan whiskey tour are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding the distilleries and enjoy the vibrant seasonal changes. We’ll provide links to the pages of the Japanese distilleries at the end of each section. Use them to learn more!
Although most of the distilleries offer these experiences in English, others may have radio guides or written materials that are available in more than one language. One example is the Suntory Hakushu Distillery, which has audio tours in a number of languages. Getting to know some simple Japanese words and phrases can make your trip better. If you’re short on time to brush up on Japanese, don’t worry! You can conveniently use Google Translate to help you navigate through your whiskey adventure. To ensure seamless connectivity, consider getting an eSIM from Jetpac, a reliable provider for travelers in Japan. Jetpac offers a range of eSIM options tailored for Japan, ensuring you stay connected with ease.
Moreover, Jetpac has introduced exciting new subscription services like JetFlex and JetPro. These plans are designed to offer flexible and premium connectivity options, making your travel experience even more convenient. By choosing Jetpac’s eSIM services, you can enjoy uninterrupted access to essential apps like Google Translate, helping you make the most of your Japan whiskey tour.
The Japanese public transport system works well, making it easy to get to the distilleries. For instance, from Otaru Station on the JR Hakodate Main Line, you can get to the Nikka Yoichi Distillery. Additionally, a Japanese bullet train or Shinkansen can take you to distilleries like Akkeshi, which are further away from the city centre.
By keeping these things in mind, you can plan a well-organised trip that will help you enjoy Japan’s rich whisky-making heritage and the unique qualities of its distilleries!
Japanese Distilleries to Visit for Whiskey Tours and Tastings
1. Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

Opening in 1923, Suntory Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s first malt whiskey distillery. It is easily accessible for tourists experiencing the Kansai area as it is in Shimamoto, Osaka Prefecture. This makes a perfect side trip after experiencing the temples from Kyoto. Learn about Japanese whiskey culture in a way that is both traditional and modern at the Yamazaki distillery.
An engaging and informative tour of the Yamazaki distillery starts with fermentation and leads into a special tasting menu of spirits that include the Yamazaki distillery reserve single malt whisky. Within the factory, there is also the Yamazaki Whiskey Museum. Here, its visitors can learn about the origins and expertise of Yamazaki whiskey, including rare varieties such as Suntory The Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky and the exclusive 12 year Yamazaki whisky.

Image credit: Suntory
To add to the entire experience, souvenirs come with the ticket to the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, so you definitely won’t be leaving empty-handed. Additionally, within the grounds is the Yamazaki distillery gift shop for you to bring home whiskey-related items. So yes, you can indeed buy Yamazaki whiskey here!

Image credit: Suntory
Like many of the Japanese whiskey distilleries on this list, online bookings are required for people who want to enjoy everything the Yamazaki Distillery has to offer. What makes it a bit more tricky is that it’s not as simple as booking a spot here, as they use the traditional Japanese online lottery system! Secure your spot and immerse yourself into the historical blends of Suntory Yamazaki Distillery by making a reservation on their website.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 5-2-1 Yamazaki, Shimamoto, Mishima District, Osaka 618-0001. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
2. Suntory Hakushu Distillery (Yamanashi Prefecture)

Image credit: Suntory
Similar yet completely different from its Yamazaki counterpart, the Suntory Hakushu Distillery was made with the goal of creating another kind of malt whiskey completely different from the famous Yamazaki whiskey. The Hakushu distillery is located in northern Yamanashi, sitting among the forests of Japan’s Southern Alps. The surrounding alps are essential in creating the sweet, smoky flavor profile of Hakushu whiskies, since melted snow is used in the distillation process.
One of the most famous whiskeys from the Hakushu Distillery is the Hakushu 12 Year Old, marked by an emphasis on craftsmanship and innovation. The distillery is renowned for its light, fresh, and herbal-flavored whiskeys, with hints of forest, mint, and fruit, and the Hakushu 12 Year Old is no exception to this smoky yet fresh taste profile. This distinctive style has earned Hakushu a loyal following among whiskey connoisseurs.

Image credit: Suntory
The distillery is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and preserve the surrounding natural resources – they even have a bird sanctuary located near the main building. Similar to the Yamazaki Distillery, reservations are booked through an online lottery system, which you can access here.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 2913-1 Torihara, Hakushu-cho, Hokuto, Yamanashi 408-0316. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
3. Nikka Yoichi Distillery (Hokkaido Prefecture)

Image credit: Nikka
As one of the most popular Japanese whiskey brands, the Nikka Yoichi Distillery in Hokkaido is a must-visit. Founded in 1934 by the visionary Masataka Taketsuru, who studied whiskey-making in Scotland, Yoichi reflects Taketsuru’s deep admiration for traditional Scottish methods combined with the unique characteristics of the Japanese environment. If you’re in Hokkaido and looking to taste some classic Japanese whiskey, a visit to this classic and historic distillery is a delicious and educational experience.
Masataka Taketsuru, inspired by his time in Scotland, built the Yoichi Distillery in Yoichi, mirroring the cool, rugged climate of Scotland’s whisky regions. Yoichi is renowned for its smoky, peaty, and full-bodied expressions, which set it apart from the lighter styles often associated with Japanese whisky. Yoichi’s production methods are deeply rooted in traditional Scottish techniques, including the use of direct-fired copper pot stills, which impart a richer, smokier flavor to the whisky.

Image credit: Nikka
The Nikka Yoichi Distillery has garnered numerous awards for its exceptional whiskeys, which are celebrated for their depth, complexity, and intensity. The distillery offers free guided tours for those curious to learn more about their whiskey-making process, although reservations must be made beforehand here. If you’re unable to book one of their guided tours, you can always access the distillery’s museum (complete with a free tasting bar!) or visit the shop and restaurant.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 7-6 Kurokawacho, Yoichi, Yoichi District, Hokkaido 046-0003. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
4. Akkeshi Distillery (Hokkaido Prefecture)

Image credit: Akkeshi Distillery
In case you’re still searching for another whiskey experience in Hokkaido, then Akkeshi Distillery is your next stop. Located in Akkeshi Town, the Akkeshi Distillery is one of Japan’s rising stars in the whiskey world. Established in 2016, this young new distillery has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to producing high-quality whiskey with distinct Japanese characteristics.
Akkeshi’s location in the northernmost part of Hokkaido, Japan, offers a cold, crisp, and moist climate that mirrors traditional whiskey-making regions like Scotland, making it an ideal spot for aging whiskey. The distillery takes inspiration from the distinct flavour of Islay whiskeys, creating aromas and flavour profiles that can’t be found anywhere else. Their whiskeys are also designed to pair well with local specialties, such as oysters and dairy products.

Image credit: Akkeshi Distillery
Despite being relatively new to the whisky scene, Akkeshi Distillery has already attracted attention for its smooth, rich, and heavy-bodied single malts. The distillery’s first releases represent the new wave of Japanese whiskey, blending tradition with innovation to create distinctive expressions that stand out in an ever-evolving industry. and its commitment to quality promises a bright future in the global whiskey market. Akkeshi Distillery is certainly a name to look out for in the whiskey world of today.
If you’re planning to visit the Akkeshi Distillery, note that it is quite remote and does not offer direct tours or have a visitor center. However, Akkeshi Gourmet Park “Conchiglie” is the only authorized tour provider, offering a unique experience with reservations required at least 3 days in advance. The tour includes transportation to and from the distillery, a New Born whisky sample, a 1000 yen voucher for the Conchiglie oyster bar, and a souvenir. While you can’t enter the distillery itself, you can view it through large glass windows from the outdoor observation deck, and explore the rackhouse on these public tours.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 15-1-1 Midori, Akkeshi, Akkeshi District, Hokkaido 088-1111. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
5. Fuji Gotemba Distillery (Shizuoka Prefecture)

Image credit: The Fuji Gotemba Distillery
The Fuji Gotemba Distillery, located at the base of Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji, is known for producing some of the country’s most refined and distinctive whiskeys. Since Mount Fuji is often a must-see for tourists in Japan, dropping by Fuji Gotemba while you’re in the area will certainly be worth your while. Established in 1972, it is part of the large Japanese conglomerate Asahi Group, which also owns several other alcohol brands.
The distillery produces a wide range of whiskeys, with an emphasis on balance and complexity. Fuji Gotemba is known for its smooth, mellow flavor profiles, often with notes of fruit, honey, and light spices. The whiskey is aged in a variety of casks, including American oak, sherry, and the rare Mizunara oak, which imparts a subtle, unique character to the spirit.

Image credit: The Fuji Gotemba Distillery
Visitors to the Fuji Gotemba Distillery can enjoy a guided tour of the production facilities and learn about the distillery’s history, processes, and of course, enjoy a nosing and tasting session of several samples such as the Kirin 25 Small Batch Grain and 17 Small Malt. The distillery also includes a bottling plant and cooperage among its facilities, giving visitors a deeper look into the whole process behind their whiskeys. The stunning views of Mount Fuji in the background only add to the charm of this scenic distillery. To make reservations for your visit, you can book online here.
There are several reasons to visit the Fuji Gotemba Distillery, their exceptional whiskey being one among many. For golf enthusiasts, the distillery is close to five golf clubs in the area, as well as many rejuvenating Onsens in the Hakone area – definitely a worthwhile stop on your trip!
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 620 Shibanta, Gotemba, Shizuoka 412-0003. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
6. Hombo Shuzo “Mars Shinshu” Distillery (Nagano Prefecture)

Image credit: Hombo Shuzo “Mars Shinshu” Distillery
Located in the heart of Nagano Prefecture, the Mars Shinshu Distillery, founded by the Hombo family, is one of Japan’s most scenic and distinctive whiskey producers. Mars Shinshu is known as the highest whiskey distillery.
Mars Shinshu’s location, at an altitude of 798 meters above sea level, is integral to its production process. The cooler climate and high-quality water create an ideal environment for aging whiskey, allowing it to develop complexity and depth. Established in 1985, the distillery benefits from a unique combination of natural resources, including pure water and melted snow sourced from the nearby, which gives the whisky a smooth and refined character.
Guided tours of the distillery offer insights into the distillery’s history, production methods, and facilities, including three aging cellars, a store, and a bar. While the Mars Shinshu Distillery is a smaller space compared to the other distilleries, a visit to the intimate facilities will show exactly why the distillery is such a prolific and renowned name in the whiskey community.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 4752-31 Miyatamura, Kamiina District, Nagano 399-3702. You can find its exact location on Google Maps. To ensure your spot, make a reservation through their official website here.
7. Chichibu Distillery (Saitama Prefecture)

Nestled in the rural town of Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, the Chichibu Distillery is one of Japan’s most exciting and innovative whisky producers. Established in 2008 by Ichiro Akuto, the distillery has quickly gained international acclaim for its exceptional single malts. While it is a relatively young name in the whiskey industry, its flagship product, Ichiro’s Malt, is slowly growing in popularity among whiskey lovers all over the world.
Chichibu’s whiskeys are known for their rich, complex profiles, often showcasing fruity, floral, and smoky notes with a distinct Japanese touch. The distillery is known for its experimentation despite its still-growing size. Since temperatures drop below zero in the winter and grow quite hot and humid in the summer, such extreme environments have a large influence on the flavours and distilling process of the whiskey.

Image credit: Chichibu Distillery
Despite being a relatively young distillery, Chichibu has made a massive impact on the global whisky scene, winning numerous prestigious awards and becoming highly sought after by collectors. Its releases, such as the Chichibu The Peated and Chichibu On The Way, have earned a reputation for their refinement, balance, and bold character.
Planning Your Visit to Chichibu Distillery
Although the Chichibu Distillery isn’t open to the public, you can still explore it through:
- Direct Contact: Reach out to the distillery to see if a tour can be arranged, especially if you’re an industry member or press.
- Group Tours: Join a group tour that includes Chichibu in its itinerary, offering a shared experience with other whisky fans.
- Private Tours: Collaborate with local tour operators to arrange a private visit, ensuring a personalized experience.
- Chichibu Whisky Matsuri: Visit during the annual Chichibu Whisky Matsuri, which often features distillery tours and tastings.
The Chichibu Distillery doesn’t have formal opening hours for visitors, but it’s possible to call and arrange a visit ahead of time. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, so you’ll have no problem if you’d like to schedule a guided tour. For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 49 Midorigaoka, Chichibu, Saitama 368-0024. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
8. Miyagikyo Distillery (Miyagi Prefecture)

Image credit: Nikka
Nestled in the lush mountains of Miyagi Prefecture, the Miyagikyo Distillery is Nikka Whisky’s second distillery, which sits in a valley surrounded by beautiful forests and two clear streams in Sendai, part of the scenic Tohoku region. Founded by Masataka Taketsuru, the father of Japanese whisky, Miyagikyo is celebrated for its smooth, fruity, and elegant flavor profiles. The distillery offers guided tours that take visitors through the distillation process, showcasing its unique pot stills and the influence of the surrounding natural environment. Guests can enjoy tastings of Miyagikyo’s signature whiskies, which are known for their balance and complexity. Reservations can be made online here

Image credit: The Miyagikyo Distillery
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at Nikka 1, Aoba-ku, Sendai, Miyagi 989-3433. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
9. Eigashima Distillery (Hyogo Prefecture)

Located in the scenic Hyogo Prefecture, the Eigashima White Oak Distillery is one of Japan’s oldest whiskey producers, with a history dating back to 1919. This distillery is not only renowned for its whiskey but also for its sake and shochu production, reflecting the rich diversity of Japanese spirits. The guided tours offered here delve into its rich heritage and showcase traditional whiskey-making techniques alongside its sake and shochu processes.
Visitors can witness the intricate process of creating their signature Akashi whiskies, known for their smooth and balanced profiles. Interestingly, the distillery’s proximity to the sea contributes to the unique maturation process of their whiskies, imparting subtle maritime notes to the flavor. The tour concludes with a tasting session, where guests can enjoy a selection of their finest products, including their acclaimed Akashi whiskies. Reservations can be made through their official website here.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 919 Nishiyama, Akashi, Hyogo 674-0065. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
10. Kanosuke Distillery (Kagoshima Prefecture)

Image credit: The Kanosuke Distillery
Nestled in the picturesque Kagoshima Prefecture, the Kanosuke Distillery is a relatively new player in the Japanese whiskey scene, having been established in 2017. Despite its youth, the distillery has quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach and commitment to quality.

Image credit: The Kanosuke Distillery
The Kanosuke Distillery offers guided tours that provide insights into their unique production methods, including the use of pot stills and a variety of cask types for aging. The tour experience is enhanced by a tasting session, allowing visitors to sample their distinctive single malts. Reservations can be made online here.
For those planning a visit, the distillery is located at 8-1, Nishikata, Hioki, Kagoshima 899-2201. You can find its exact location on Google Maps.
Conclusion

Image credit: The Spirits Business
Japanese whiskey distilleries have become globally renowned for their commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and attention to detail – and for good reason! Drawing on centuries of tradition, these distilleries blend both Scottish influences and uniquely Japanese techniques to produce exceptional whiskeys.
The art of aging, the selection of ingredients, and the careful blending processes all contribute to the creation of whiskeys that are prized by connoisseurs around the world. For whiskey lovers and enthusiasts all around, going on a tour of Japan’s most famous and sought-after whiskey distilleries is sure to be an engaging, beautiful, and educational experience.
Join Our Newsletter
Sign up for the latest news & offers