Suntory Hakushu Distillery

Suntory Hakushu Distillery & Natural Water Minami Alps Hakushu Plant is located in Hokuto City, Yamanashi, and is the distillery for Suntory’s “Hakushu” whisky. The adjacent natural water plant can be visited together. Set in “Hakushu Forest” at the foot of Mt. Kaikomagatake in the Minami Alps, the area’s geology is formed from granite from the Minami Alps. Over more than 20 years, water filters through these layers and becomes mineral-rich natural water. Visitors can enjoy a tour that covers both whisky-making using this water and the bottling process at the plant. Tours include an explanation (with project mapping), a look at the working plant, and at the end, tastings and even a lesson on how to make a delicious highball. The grounds also include a bird sanctuary that attracts around 50 species throughout the year; if you’re lucky, you may spot wild birds, making for a nature-rich experience. There is also a restaurant on-site, so you can enjoy the facility for a full day. Access: from JR Chuo Main Line “Kobuchizawa Station,” take the free shuttle bus (~20 min) or a taxi (~15 min). By car, exit the Chuo Expressway at “Kobuchizawa IC” and drive about 20 minutes.