A Tour of Japanese Whisky Bars and Distilleries

First came the “Best of the Best” nod from Whisky Magazine to Japanese whisky maker Nikka for its 10-Year Yoichi in 2001. Then, in 2015, Whisky Bible declared Suntory’s now-legendary Yamazaki Sherry Cask 2013 the world’s best whisky. In the ensuing five years, Japanese whisky sales to the U.S. market skyrocketed 1,000 percent. Awards haven’t stopped rolling in since, with makers like Suntory, Nikka, and Chichibu mopping up global prizes. Most recently, Suntory’s Hakushu Single Malt 25 Year Old was crowned best single malt at the 2020 World Whisky Awards.

Tokyo’s Best Whisky Bars

Apollo Bar Ginza

This classy spot in Ginza has a deep whisky selection, a Tom Waits soundtrack, and a friendly, erudite bartender.

Bar Urushi

A casual, sophisticated hideout in Ebisu with an affable bartender and an extensive whisky selection.

Cabin Nakameguro

A great whisky menu in trendy Nakameguro.

Zoetrope

A film buff’s bar in Shinjuku with more than 300 bottles of domestic whisky.

Visiting a Distillery

By nature, many of Japan’s distilleries are out of the way, as they require lots of space for the whisky to age in peace. But there are a few distilleries that may require only a quick train ride off your planned route, and here are a few of the best:

Suntory Yamazaki Distillery

If you visit Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, you can walk through on your own, with bilingual exhibits at an on-site museum about the history of the label, and sample the goods at a paid tasting counter. Or, pay for a guided, behind-the-scenes distillery tour in English. Reserve ahead for either the free museum or a paid tour.

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

Just an hour outside Sapporo and Hokkaido, a trip to this distillery on Japan’s northernmost main island is sure to be extra warming

Start planning your adventure today

Moon Japan

by Jonathan DeHart

by Moon Travel Guides

Japan expert Jonathan DeHart shows travelers how to experience the natural wonder and rich culture of a country that blends modernity and tradition unlike any other. From the world’s busiest intersection to the most serene hot springs, you’ll find it all inside Moon Japan

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$27.99

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$36.99 CAD

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Trade Paperback (Revised)

1. ebook (Revised)

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Jonathan DeHart

About the Author

Jonathan DeHart is a Tokyo-based journalist and editor who first came to Japan at the impressionable age of 21 to study the language. He writes primarily about culture and social trends in Asia. With more than 500 published articles, his work has been selected for various “best of” lists by The Washington Post, The Atlantic, The Huffington Post, Foreign Policy and Real Clear World. He previously worked for both print and online media in Shanghai.

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