Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery is the distillery of one of Japan’s whisky brands, Nikka Whisky. It is recognized as a Hokkaido Heritage site and is open to the public. Inside the distillery grounds, nine buildings are certified as Registered Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan, so enjoying the architecture is also part of the appeal. Visitors can choose between free self-guided viewing and a guided distillery tour. Admission is free. Beyond touring, you can also enjoy tastings, making it enjoyable for both whisky beginners and enthusiasts. There is also a whisky museum and a souvenir shop. Many distillery-only items are sold, such as Nikka whisky sweetened adzuki beans (whisky amanatto). A standout experience for enthusiasts is "My Whisky Making," where you can fill a cask and have it bottled 10 years later into a 700 ml bottle delivered to you (reservation required). Because the My Whisky program takes two days to complete the process, it is recommended to plan with plenty of time. For access, it is described as about 1.5 hours from JR New Chitose Airport Station to JR Yoichi Station, and the distillery is a short walk from the station.