A Must-Buy for Whisky Fans! Introducing Local Whiskies by Prefecture! Perfect as Souvenirs!

日本のウイスキー

In recent years, there has been talk of a whisky boom. In particular, Japanese whisky has been gaining attention, and there is a growing trend of distilleries producing craft whisky all across the country.

These distilleries are often small-scale, resulting in limited production, and many items can only be enjoyed by visiting the distillery itself.

For this reason, we recommend whisky lovers to take a “distillery tour trip.”

Even if the distillery isn’t your main destination, picking up a bottle of whisky as a souvenir during your trip is a great idea. After local sake and craft beer, why not try “local whisky”?

With that in mind, this article will introduce whiskies from distilleries across Japan by prefecture.

Make sure to buy a bottle as a souvenir or to enjoy on-site during your travels!

  1. History of Distilleries in Japan
    1. The First Distillery: Yamazaki Distillery
    2. Kotobukiya Utilizes CM and Other Methods to Pioneer the Market
    3. The Craft Distillery Construction Boom
    4. Are There Any Whisky Distilleries in Tokyo?
  2. Recommended Whisky Souvenirs for Your Hokkaido Trip
    1. Akkeshi Distillery
    2. Nikka Yoichi Distillery
  3. Recommended Whisky Souvenir for Miyagi Travel
    1. Miyagikyo Distillery
  4. Recommended Whiskey Souvenir for a Niigata Trip
    1. Niigata Kameda Distillery
    2. Yoshida Denzai Distillery
  5. Recommended Souvenir Whiskey for Ibaraki Travel
    1. Yagyo Distillery (Hinomaru Whiskey)
  6. Recommended Whiskey Souvenir for Saitama Trip
    1. Chichibu Distillery (Ichiro’s Malt)
  7. Recommended Whiskey Souvenir for Your Trip to Chiba
    1. Sudo Honke (Boso Whiskey)
  8. Recommended Whisky for Souvenirs from Kanagawa
    1. Shonan Distillery
  9. Recommended Whisky for Souvenirs from Yamanashi
    1. Suntory Hakushu Distillery
    2. Fuji Kofu Distillery
    3. Fugaku Distillery
  10. Recommended Whisky as a Souvenir from Shizuoka Trip
    1. Fuji Gotemba Distillery
    2. Gaia Flow Shizuoka Distillery
    3. Ikawa Distillery
  11. Recommended Whiskies as Souvenirs from Nagano Trip
    1. Mars Shinshu Distillery (Komagatake)
  12. Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Aichi Trip
    1. Suntory Chita Distillery
    2. Kiyosu Sakura Brewery Main Distillery
  13. Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Kyoto Trip
    1. Kyoto Miyako Distillery
  14. Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Osaka Trip
    1. Suntory Yamazaki Distillery
  15. Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Hyogo Trip
    1. Tanba Distillery
  16. Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Fukuoka Trip
    1. Nikka Whiskey Moji Plant
  17. Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Kumamoto Travel
    1. Yamaga Distillery
  18. Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Kagoshima Travel
    1. Satsuma Tsukasa Distillery
    2. Kanonosuke Distillery
  19. Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Okinawa Travel
    1. Kyoda Distillery
  20. Summary
スポンサーリンク

History of Distilleries in Japan

Since we’re on the topic, let’s first take a look back at the history of distillery construction in Japan.

It is said that whisky arrived in Japan when Commodore Perry’s fleet came to the country.

Today, whisky is made all over Japan, but what kind of journey has it taken to reach this point?

The First Distillery: Yamazaki Distillery

In 1902, the Anglo-Japanese Alliance was signed, leading to the importation of authentic Scotch whisky and growing awareness of whisky among Japanese people.

It was around this time that Masataka Taketsuru was sent to Scotland to learn the art of whisky making.

After gaining valuable knowledge in Scotland, Masataka Taketsuru returned to Japan and joined Kotobukiya (now Suntory) in 1923.

Kotobukiya, which had already succeeded with “Akadama Port Wine,” saw whisky as the next big opportunity.

Under the supervision of Masataka Taketsuru, Yamazaki Distillery was established in 1924 in Yamazaki, Osaka.

In 1929, the release of “Suntory Whisky” (commonly known as Shirofuda) became known as Japan’s first authentic whisky.

Kotobukiya Utilizes CM and Other Methods to Pioneer the Market

After World War II, many companies entered the whisky industry, sparking a competition known as the “Whisky War.”

During this time, Kotobukiya (now Suntory) launched the “Drink Torys and Go to Hawaii” campaign, and the image character from the commercials, “Uncle Torys,” became very popular.

It was also during this period that uniquely Japanese ways of enjoying whisky, such as pairing it with Japanese cuisine and the culture of bottle-keeping, began to spread.

In the 1960s and 1970s, distilleries like Miyagikyo, Hakushu, and Chita were established—names that are still familiar today.

Production volumes increased, and whisky gradually became a part of Japanese life.

The Craft Distillery Construction Boom

In 1989, the whisky tax classification system was abolished, making it easier to enjoy imported whisky. As a result, Japan’s major manufacturers began acquiring overseas distilleries more frequently. It was around this time that Suntory acquired Bowmore.

In 2008, the establishment of the Chichibu Distillery by Venture Whisky marked the beginning of an increase in distilleries across Japan. This was driven by the global craft whisky boom.

Especially in 2016, the craft distillery boom took off. Distilleries familiar to whisky enthusiasts, such as Akkeshi Distillery, Nagahama Distillery, and Gaiaflow Shizuoka Distillery, were established during this time.

Currently, there are 109 distilleries, with more set to start operations in the near future.

The number of craft distilleries is expected to continue growing, and we should keep an eye on the unique distilleries that will emerge.

Are There Any Whisky Distilleries in Tokyo?

Despite the craft distillery boom, are there any whisky distilleries in Tokyo, the capital city? The answer is no—there are no whisky distilleries in Tokyo.

This might be due to the limited space available. However, there are urban distilleries producing gin, so it could be worth visiting those!

From the next section, we will introduce whisky recommendations as souvenirs for each prefecture!

The list of prefectures will be updated over time.

Recommended Whisky Souvenirs for Your Hokkaido Trip

Akkeshi Distillery

Introduction to Akkeshi Distillery

Akkeshi Distillery was established by Keiichi Hida, who previously ran a company importing food raw materials.

Testing and maturation started in 2013, and distillation began in 2016.

The distillery has been supported by Forsyths, a Scottish company, since its inception, with their technicians staying at the distillery to share their expertise.

Notably, the distillery uses local water and malt from Akkeshi, emphasizing the concept of terroir.

Recommended Brand for Souvenirs

Akkeshi Single Malt Whisky Sarorunkamuy

This whisky uses only the original spirits from the distillery’s first year of operation in 2016.

It is blended from four different types of spirits: non-peated bourbon casks, sherry casks, red wine casks, and peated Mizunara oak casks.

The flavor profile includes notes of strawberry, chocolate, and anise.

It is great served straight, but it’s also recommended to enjoy it with water or as a highball.

Nikka Yoichi Distillery

Introduction to Yoichi Distillery

Yoichi Distillery is known as the setting for NHK’s morning drama “Massan.”

It was established in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru.

The distillery adopted “direct coal-fired distillation,” a technique Masataka learned at the distilleries in Scotland during his studies, for its initial still. This use of direct coal-fired distillation in the first still is a rare practice worldwide.

Many of the original structures from the founding period remain within the distillery, some of which are registered as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.

Recommended Souvenir Whisky

Nikka Tsuru Yoichi Distillery Limited Edition

“Nikka Tsuru Yoichi Distillery Limited Edition” is a blended whisky available exclusively at the Yoichi Distillery.

This product is different from the discontinued “Tsuru 17 Year,” as it is a non-age blended whisky. It is a blend of whiskies from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries. Due to being a non-age whisky, it has a milder smoky flavor and less aging character, with fruity sweetness as the main profile and a touch of spiciness. The bottle design, inspired by the crane, is also quite stylish.

Recommended Whisky Souvenir for Miyagi Travel

Miyagikyo Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Following the Yoichi Distillery, the Miyagikyo Distillery was established in 1969 as part of Nikka Whisky. It is located in the mountainous area near the border of Miyagi and Yamagata prefectures.

Miyagikyo, abundant in greenery and water, is often compared to Scotland’s Speyside, and unlike Yoichi Distillery, it is known for producing whiskies with a floral and fruity character.

In contrast to the direct coal-fired distillation at the Yoichi Distillery, Miyagikyo employs indirect steam heating. Additionally, it is characterized by its use of an old-style continuous distillation apparatus, which has become rare even in Scotland.

Recommended Souvenir Brand Introduction

Miyagikyo Limited Blended Whisky

The “Miyagikyo Limited Blended Whisky” is crafted from malt whisky produced at the Miyagikyo Distillery. Naturally, this whisky can only be purchased at the Miyagikyo Distillery.

It offers a floral and fruity aroma, with a harmonious balance of malt and grain sweetness. The aging is minimal, showcasing the characteristic spiciness of a younger whisky.

Nikka Date

Although it’s not exclusive to the distillery, “Date” is sold as a Miyagi Prefecture limited whiskey.

It is made by blending Cafe Malt and Cafe Grain produced at the Miyagikyo Distillery using the “Cafe Still.” This whiskey allows you to enjoy the unique sweetness characteristic of the Cafe Still. It’s available for purchase online, but if you visit Miyagi Prefecture, be sure to pick up a bottle!

Recommended Whiskey Souvenir for a Niigata Trip

Niigata Kameda Distillery

Distillery Introduction

The “Niigata Kameda Distillery” is operated by Ohtani Co., Ltd., the largest stamp manufacturer in Japan.

The CEO of Ohtani Co., Ltd., who has always been a whiskey enthusiast, established the distillery to create a business that could compete on a global scale, starting distillation in 2020.

The washback features wooden tanks made from acacia wood, crafted by Italy’s Garbellotto company.

A unique aspect of the distillery is its production of rice whiskey and rum.

Recommended Whiskey Souvenir

Niigata Kameda New Pot Peated

New pot refers to the unaged, freshly distilled liquid before maturation.

The product “Niigata Kameda New Pot Peated” is made from this new pot.

It received the “World Best” award at the global whiskey competition “World Whiskey Awards 2023.”

Due to its high alcohol content, it is also recommended to mix it with other drinks.

Yoshida Denzai Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Yoshida Denzai Distillery is Japan’s first craft grain whiskey distillery dedicated solely to this category.

Originally, Yoshida Denzai was a company that manufactured medical X-ray machines and similar equipment.

Driven by the president’s love for whiskey, the company entered the whiskey business in 2022, utilizing a factory that was not in operation.

As a manufacturer, they are committed to producing uncompromising whiskey, which is a hallmark of their approach.

Recommended Souvenir Whiskey

Grain Whiskey 1-Year Aged TYPE: American7 Cask Strength

This is the first item produced after starting whiskey production in 2022, titled “Grain Whiskey 1-Year Aged TYPE: American7 Cask Strength.”

It was first available for sale at the “Whiskey Festival 2023 in Tokyo,” held in December 2023.

Recommended Souvenir Whiskey for Ibaraki Travel

Yagyo Distillery (Hinomaru Whiskey)

Distillery Introduction

The Yagyo Distillery is operated by the long-established sake brewery Kiuchi Sake Brewery, known for producing sake like “Kikusakari.”

They began whiskey production in 2016 and launched the brand “Hinomaru Whiskey.”

Additionally, Kiuchi Sake Brewery also produces the popular “Hitachino Nest Beer,” which is well-loved worldwide.

For whiskey production, they use German-made tanks, which are characterized by having separate mash tuns and filters. This approach incorporates their expertise in beer brewing.

Recommended Souvenir Whiskey

Hinomaru Whiskey The 1st Barrels

This whiskey is a blend of malt distilled at the Nukata Distillery in 2016 and grain whiskey distilled at the Yachiyo Distillery in 2020, both aged in sherry casks. The grain whiskey from the Yachiyo Distillery uses domestic wheat.

It features aromas of honey, plum, and eucalyptus.

On the palate, you can experience nuances of honey, eucalyptus, and nuts.

Hinomaru Whiskey Blended Newborn 2022

This whiskey is crafted from malt distilled at the Nukata Distillery and grain whiskey that incorporates locally sourced wheat from Ibaraki Prefecture, aged to perfection.

It was awarded a gold medal in the liqueur category at the Tokyo Whiskey & Spirits Competition 2022.

Recommended Whiskey Souvenir for Saitama Trip

Chichibu Distillery (Ichiro’s Malt)

Distillery Introduction

Chichibu Distillery, founded by Ichiro Akuto, who runs a family sake brewery, was established in 2007 by Venture Whisky.

Initially, the Japanese whiskey industry was on the decline when the Chichibu Distillery became the catalyst for the craft distillery boom.

The fermentation tanks are made of mizunara oak, and local two-row barley is used for floor malting.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

This distillery does not offer general tours, so there is no souvenir shop and no sales of whiskey or souvenir glasses.While the brand itself is quite common, I would like to introduce it.

Ichiro’s Malt is available everywhere, but it is becoming slightly harder to find in the Tokyo metropolitan area. If you find a regular-priced bottle in Saitama Prefecture, I think it would be a good idea to buy it and take it home!

Ichiro’s Malt & Grain White Label

Ichiro’s Malt & Grain White Label is blended using carefully selected malt and grain whiskies from aged spirits.

It is made using non-chill filtration.

The flavor is refreshing with citrus notes like lemon and orange peels.

Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve Leaf Label

Ichiro’s Malt Wine Wood Reserve Leaf Label is aged in red wine casks.

It features aromas of chocolate, orange, and licorice.

The taste includes notes of berries, walnuts, and white pepper.

This is a popular item, so it can be hard to find. If you come across it, be sure to give it a try!

Recommended Whiskey Souvenir for Your Trip to Chiba

Sudo Honke (Boso Whiskey)

Distillery Introduction

“Bōsō Whiskey,” launched in 2020 by the long-established sake brewery “Sudō Honke,” founded in the 18th year of the Meiji era, is notable for being crafted using plenty of Kururi’s renowned water, which has been selected as one of the top hundred waters of Heisei.

Utilizing the know-how acquired from years of shochu production, it is carefully crafted.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Bōsō Whiskey

“Bōsō Whiskey” is a blend of in-house malt whisky and Scotch whisky from the UK.

The aroma has nuances of caramel, resin, and grains.

The flavor is sweet and woody, with a hint of spiciness.

It is recommended to enjoy it straight or on the rocks.

Its reasonable price makes it easy to purchase as well.

Recommended Whisky for Souvenirs from Kanagawa

Shonan Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Located in Chigasaki City, “Kumazawa Sake Brewery” is a long-established sake producer founded in 1872.

This “Kumazawa Sake Brewery” started whiskey production at the “Shonan Distillery” in 2020.

They are undertaking the challenge of distilling their own “Shonan Beer,” which uses the finest beer malt, and they brew by mixing the house yeast of Shonan Beer with whiskey yeast.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Akaten-gu

“Akaten-gu” is a limited sample release that will be available in December 2023.

After aging Shonan Beer’s Imperial Stout in bourbon barrels for about a year, the beer is removed, and new pot still whisky is added for over three years of maturation.

It features notes of honey and oak, with flavors reminiscent of green apples and European pears.

Recommended Whisky for Souvenirs from Yamanashi

Suntory Hakushu Distillery

Distillery Introduction

The Suntory Hakushu Distillery was established in 1973, marking the 50th anniversary of the operation of the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery.

The second president and master blender, Keizo Saji, played a key role in the establishment of the distillery.

It features 18 fermentation tanks made of fir and 16 stills, allowing for the production of grain and rye-type whiskies.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Suntory Single Malt Whisky Hakushu 25 Years

The “Suntory Single Malt Whisky Hakushu 25 Years” is made from carefully selected Hakushu malt whisky that has been aged for over 25 years.

The aroma features notes of mango, persimmon, and chocolate.

On the palate, you can experience a rich fruity sweetness, creaminess, and a hint of acidity.

While this brand is relatively well-known, it is not easily available on the market. If you find it at the distillery, consider yourself lucky! There will likely be tasting opportunities, so even if it’s just for a tasting, make sure to try it!

Additionally, as a souvenir, you can find unique items specific to the distillery (such as glasses) for sale, which I highly recommend!

Fuji Kofu Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Originally engaged in the brewing of sake and soy sauce, Ide Shurui Hanbai Co., Ltd. made a bold decision to establish the distillery in 2020.

Currently, they sell new pot still whisky, highball cans, and blended whisky, but it seems they also plan to sell malt whisky in the future.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Grain Malt Whisky Taijukai

One of the main features is that it utilizes rice in the grain whisky, taking advantage of its background as a sake manufacturer. Additionally, it uses sake yeast.

Having only been distilled for about four years, it has a youthful character, but it is very easy to drink.

As a souvenir, it is recommended not only for its uniqueness but also because it is not easily available online.

Fugaku Distillery

Distillery Introduction

This is a new distillery that was completed in October 2023 and conducted its first distillation in December 2023.

As there are currently no products available, you cannot purchase bottles as souvenirs, but it seems that you can tour the distillery. While reflecting on the future of Japanese whisky, be sure to visit!

Recommended Whisky as a Souvenir from Shizuoka Trip

Fuji Gotemba Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Founded in 1972, Kirin Beer, Seagram, and Chivas Brothers established a joint venture called “Kirin-Seagram,” which began operations in 1973 with the Fuji Gotemba Distillery.

One of its notable features is the combination of Seagram’s expertise in grain whisky and spirits with Chivas Brothers’ knowledge of malt whisky production, equipped with facilities for both malt and grain production.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Fuji Sanroku Barrel Aged 50°

“Fuji Sanroku Barrel Aged 50°” is a flagship brand of the Fuji Gotemba Distillery.

It is characterized by the use of the distillery’s unique yeast and maturation in 180-liter small barrels.

The whisky offers a refined sweet aroma with a hint of peat, presenting a fruity and refreshing flavor.

It has won a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge for two consecutive years.

Gaia Flow Shizuoka Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Founded in 2016 by Mr. Daiko Nakamura, who was involved in the import and sales of whisky, the Gaia Flow Shizuoka Distillery is dedicated to creating whisky rooted in the local Shizuoka culture, with items produced entirely from local ingredients.

The distillery features the world’s only direct-fired pot still powered by firewood, using local thinning wood, which is a unique characteristic.

As a recommended souvenir, any of the “Single Malt” whiskies sold are a good choice. Many are sold as limited editions, making them hard to find outside Shizuoka Prefecture. If you come across any for sale, it would be worthwhile to purchase.

Ikawa Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Opened in 2020, this is a new distillery built with the theme of “Creating whisky that only we can make in the Southern Alps.”

As such, they are committed to using water sourced from the Southern Alps and oak barrels made from Mizunara trees harvested in the region. It seems they also offer distillery tours, so be sure to check their website when you are nearby.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Ikawa Distillery NEW BORN Non-Peat Sherry Butt 2024

This is a meticulously crafted product from Ikawa Distillery, released in late April 2024. It has been aged in Spanish sherry casks.

Although production is still limited, and it may come at a higher price, this could be your chance to get ahead of a future hit brand.

Recommended Whiskies as Souvenirs from Nagano Trip

Mars Shinshu Distillery (Komagatake)

Distillery Introduction

Mars Shinshu Distillery was established in 1985 by Honbo Shuzo, a sake manufacturer famous for its authentic shochu “Sakurajima” from Kagoshima.

Honbo Shuzo has been producing whiskey in Kagoshima and Yamanashi since 1949, but they built this distillery in Nagano to find a more ideal location.

In 2020, the distillery underwent a complete renovation, incorporating a faithful reproduction of the original still.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Mars Whiskey Shinshu

Mars Whiskey Shinshu is a blended whiskey available exclusively in Nagano Prefecture.

It features a fragrant aroma of malt and a refreshing flavor that evokes the natural beauty of Shinshu.

You can enjoy it in various ways, including straight, on the rocks, or with water.

Single Malt Komagatake 2023 Edition

Single Malt Komagatake 2023 Edition is a balanced vatting of original spirits aged in bourbon barrels, sherry casks, and port casks.

It offers aromas of vanilla, apricot, and milk chocolate.

On the palate, you can taste grapefruit and chocolate, characterized by a sweet flavor profile.

Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Aichi Trip

Suntory Chita Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Established in 1972 through a joint investment with JA, the Suntory Chita Distillery is known as one of the largest grain whiskey distilleries in Japan.

The facility is extensive, featuring three plants and a 30-meter tall continuous distillation column, which is one of its notable characteristics.

There is also a café-style distillation setup, allowing for the production of various types of raw spirits.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

The Suntory Chita Distillery does not offer public tours or visits. Therefore, there is no souvenir shop, and whiskey sales or souvenir glass sales are not available. As a result, the products available are typically common offerings.

Suntory Whiskey Chita

Suntory Whiskey Chita is crafted exclusively from blended grain whiskey produced at the Chita Distillery. It embodies the essence of a “light breeze.”

The aroma is reminiscent of honey and Japanese sweets, offering a smooth mouthfeel with a sweetness that is balanced by a clear flavor profile. It is highly recommended to enjoy it as a highball.

Kiyosu Sakura Brewery Main Distillery

Distillery Introduction

Kiyosu Sakura Brewing, known for its famous sake “Onikoroshi,” was founded in the 6th year of the Kaei era (1853).

This distillery utilizes its long history of sake brewing to produce whiskey, gin, and vodka.

A distinctive feature of Kiyosu Sakura Brewing is its use of sake yeast in the brewing process, showcasing the ingenuity that comes from its rich history in sake production.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Aichi Craft Whiskey Kiyosu 45°

Aichi Craft Whiskey Kiyosu 45° is a carefully blended whiskey made from malt using sake yeast and select barley grain spirits, aged in oak barrels for five years.

It features a rich vanilla aroma and delivers a full-bodied flavor.

Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Kyoto Trip

Kyoto Miyako Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Kyoto Miyako Distillery is the first whiskey distillery in Kyoto, located in Kyotanba Town.

It features one straight pot still and one bulge pot still, allowing for a wider range of flavors by using different types of pot stills.

The environment, characterized by significant temperature differences between day and night, accelerates barrel maturation, making it an ideal location for whiskey production.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Kyoto Whiskey Nishijin-ori Purple Obi

Kyoto Whiskey Nishijin-ori Purple Obi is a blend of select malt whiskies.

This item strikes a good balance between smokiness and sweetness, allowing you to enjoy the original flavors of the malt whiskies.

It received a score of 92 points at the USC 2021 competition and was selected as a finalist.

The next distillery to be introduced, the Yamazaki Distillery in Osaka, is also close to Kyoto Station, making it a recommended visit during your Kyoto trip!

Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Osaka Trip

Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii of Suntory (formerly known as Kotobukiya), the Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s first full-scale whiskey distillery.

It is known as the distillery that led the whiskey boom in Japan after World War II.

The facility features a total of eight fermentation tanks and sixteen pot stills, enabling the production of a diverse range of original whiskies.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Yamazaki 12 Years

Yamazaki 12 Years is a single malt whiskey produced by the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery.

It was released in 1984 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the distillery’s opening.

The aroma features notes of ripe persimmons, peaches, and vanilla.

It offers a deep flavor with a noticeable sweetness.

In 2003, it became the first whiskey in Japan to win a gold medal at the ISC.

With its smooth profile, it is easy to drink.

While this brand is generally available, it can be quite hard to find on the market. If you come across it at the distillery, consider yourself lucky! They likely offer tastings, so definitely try to sample it!

Additionally, you might find unique distillery merchandise (like glasses) available for purchase as souvenirs, which I highly recommend!

Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Hyogo Trip

Tanba Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Tanba Distillery is operated by Kizakura, known for producing sake like “Kizakura” and famous for its Kappa commercials.

The distillery began whiskey production in 2018 at a facility that previously produced shochu.

Aiming for authentic Japanese whiskey, the distillery introduced two copper stills in 2021 to enhance its production capabilities.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Tanba Single Malt Bottled in 2023 1st

Tanba Single Malt Bottled in 2023 1st has been matured for over three years in Oloroso sherry casks, featuring peat malt as the key malt and a blend of multiple casks, followed by a secondary maturation in sherry butts.

It is characterized by aromas reminiscent of baked sweet potatoes and crème brûlée.

On the palate, you can enjoy flavors of fruits, custard, pepper, and ginger.

This whiskey offers a delightful experience as you savor the evolving flavors while drinking.

Whiskey Recommendations for Souvenirs from Your Fukuoka Trip

Nikka Whiskey Moji Plant

Introduction to the Distillery

Nikka Whiskey Moji Plant has been producing grain whiskey since 2017. Originally established in 1914 as a spirits manufacturing facility operated by the general trading company Suzuki Shoten, it became a Nikka plant in 2006.

This large-scale distillery is characterized by its distillation process, where the first distillation is performed under reduced pressure, while the second distillation is carried out under atmospheric pressure.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Nikka The Grain

“Nikka The Grain” was created as the third release in the “Discovery Series,” commemorating the 90th anniversary of Nikka Whiskey.

This item is a blend of whiskies from Nikka’s distilleries, including the Miyagikyo Distillery, Nishinoseki Plant, Moji Plant, and Satsuma Kishu Distillery.

It is worth noting that the whisky from the Moji Plant uses barley grain whisky.

Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Kumamoto Travel

Yamaga Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Yamaga Distillery is Kumamoto Prefecture’s first full-scale whiskey distillery.

It began operations in 2011 with the support of its affiliated company, Hombo Shuzo.

One of its notable features is that all equipment, except for the malt mill, is manufactured by Miyake Seisakusho.

The distillery also has a lounge with a bar counter and shop, allowing visitors to enjoy their experience freely.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

YAMAGA NEW BORN 2022

“YAMAGA NEW BORN 2022” is a blend of seven carefully selected barrels that have been aged in bourbon casks for about seven months.

This is the distillery’s first new-born item.

It features aromas of butterscotch, apple pie, cassis, and mint.

The flavor profile offers nuances reminiscent of sponge cake, cashew nuts, lemon cake, and mitarashi (sweet soy sauce).

Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Kagoshima Travel

Satsuma Tsukasa Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Founded in 1936, Satsuma Tsukasa Distillery became a subsidiary of Asahi Beer in 2002 and was acquired by Nikka as a subsidiary in 2011.

In 2017, it underwent organizational restructuring and is now known as “Nikka Whisky Satsuma Tsukasa Distillery.”

While the distillery primarily focuses on shochu production, it began producing grain whiskey in 2018.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Nikka The Grain

Similar to the Nikka Whisky Moji Plant, one of the raw spirits used in “Nikka The Grain” comes from Satsuma Tsukasa Distillery.

“Nikka The Grain” utilizes two types of grains: “Grain” made from barley and “Corn Rye Grain,” which incorporates corn and rye.

Kanonosuke Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Kanonosuke Distillery was established by the long-standing shochu manufacturer, Komasa Jyozo, which was founded in 1883.

Production began in November 2017.

The second-generation owner, Yoshinosuke Komasa, is known as a pioneer for starting the barrel aging of shochu. The distillery is named “Kanonosuke” to embody the spirit of this pioneering tradition.

All mash tuns, washbacks, and pot stills at the distillery are manufactured by Miyake Seisakusho.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Single Malt Kanonosuke 2022 Limited Edition

“Single Malt Kanonosuke 2022 Limited Edition” is a bottling at cask strength that features a blend of multiple raw spirits aged in sherry casks, using non-peated malt as the key ingredient.

It is characterized by aromas of honey, lemon tea, and plum.

The flavor profile offers nuances reminiscent of berry-flavored dried fruits and coffee candies.

Recommended Whiskies for Souvenirs from Okinawa Travel

Kyoda Distillery

Introduction to the Distillery

Founded in 1961 by Masaru Matsuda, Kyoda Distillery began with the production of rum made from sugarcane and has since expanded to produce various alcoholic beverages, including awamori, spirits, beer, and liqueurs.

In 2017, the distillery started distilling whiskey using British peat malt, successfully creating Okinawa Prefecture’s first single malt whiskey.

Recommended Brands for Souvenirs

Kyoda Single Cask 2022 Rum Cask Finish Cask No. 4265

“Kyoda Single Cask 2022 Rum Cask Finish Cask No. 4265” is a malt whiskey aged for three years in oak barrels and bottled at cask strength straight from the barrel.

The whiskey is crafted with a commitment to being non-chill filtered and non-colored.

It employs a wood finish method, with an additional maturation in barrels used for their own rum, resulting in a rum cask finish.

You can enjoy the aromas of rum alongside smoky notes derived from peat.

Summary

In this article, we introduced recommended whiskies for souvenirs by prefecture! At Peaty, we share information to help you fall in love with whiskey.

Be sure to check out our other articles as well!

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