Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery
4.5
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:15 PM
About
--is at Lat.43 10'N.Lon.14045'E, or about the same Latitude as the middle of New York State, Toronto Canada, Vladivostok Russia. --rests about 50km west of Sapporo City in southern Hokkaido, which is the northernmost of Japan's four principal islands, and was one of the last Japanese frontiers to be developed. --has three sides surrounded by mountains, and one side on the coast (Sea of Japan). --is blessed with the things that really matter to great whisky. However, Scotch whisky captured the young man's imagination, as well as the interest of few other enterprising Japanese of that day. He decided to dedicate his life to whisky.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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4.5
1,297 reviews
Excellent
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523
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89
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simon_and_emma69
Workington, UK60 contributions
Feb 2020
It was quite an experience to meander around the distillery in deep snow - it leant an air of quiet calm to the distillery that was very relaxing. The distillery has a wonderful history which unfolds as you walk round the different buildings. There's not much info in English but if you understand the distilling process then it's not an issue. I was lucky enough to be in the stills building when they fired up the furnace under one of the stills, and then happened to be passing as they were stoking it. Coal fired stills have now vanished from Scotland and this may be one of the last (if not the last) whisky distiller to fire the stills with coal. The free tastings are great, but the opportunity to sample some of the old malts at a reasonable price is the real tasting highlight. Sadly, these wonderful whiskies are no longer available for sale - or at least at any price mere mortals would pay - but there are some distillery only offerings in the shop that offer a consolation buy. If you're a real fan of whisky then I would allow over two hours for the visit.
Written 9 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
197gabes
Singapore, Singapore159 contributions
Jun 2024 • Family
The Nikka whisky distillery is good for a half day trip. There is nothing much to do in the town of Yoichi itself. To get there, there is a few transportation options available, but would recommend heading there by bus as the fare is reasonable and offers a great view of the coast line along the way.
Did not know that advanced reservation was required for their distillery tour, but not all was lost as there is still the free tour available which you get limited access to the place on own, allowing you to visit the museum, gift shop and restaurant. At the end of the walk around the small museum, you also get sample some of Nikka’s product at own cost. (Another good reason not to drive there)
The gift shop is great if you are looking to purchase some limited items or souvenirs from Nikka not available elsewhere.
Since it was past lunchtime when we were there, decided to have settle our meal at the on site restaurant, Rita’s Kitchen. Food was not too bad, portion was decent and reasonably priced, service was also good and the place was clean and quite spacious.
Overall the visit was good and educational. Probably would had enjoyed it more if have done their guided tour and get to see more of the place. So if you are planning a visit do remember to check their website and book your guided tour.
Did not know that advanced reservation was required for their distillery tour, but not all was lost as there is still the free tour available which you get limited access to the place on own, allowing you to visit the museum, gift shop and restaurant. At the end of the walk around the small museum, you also get sample some of Nikka’s product at own cost. (Another good reason not to drive there)
The gift shop is great if you are looking to purchase some limited items or souvenirs from Nikka not available elsewhere.
Since it was past lunchtime when we were there, decided to have settle our meal at the on site restaurant, Rita’s Kitchen. Food was not too bad, portion was decent and reasonably priced, service was also good and the place was clean and quite spacious.
Overall the visit was good and educational. Probably would had enjoyed it more if have done their guided tour and get to see more of the place. So if you are planning a visit do remember to check their website and book your guided tour.
Written 11 June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jeffry b
Essendon, Australia13,595 contributions
Oct 2019
Nikka Whisky is not just one of the best whiskys make outside of Scotland, it is one of the best whiskys in the world. If you don't beleive me, try getting hold of a bottle, it's like finding hen's teeth. We took a tour through the distillery and saw the distilling process. Even some of my whisky-loving Scottish friends were impressed..Oriental whiskys are in demand at the moment, perhaps Japan can teach the West some things that we have forgotten. One of Nikka's closest rivals for flavour and consistency is Kavalan, made in Taiwan, which I tasted recently.. By the way, the journey to the distillery by local train is a slow, but it's fun.
Written 20 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ranz
Dandridge, TN139 contributions
Nov 2022
As a fan of the products and being in the neighborhood, I went for a visit to this complex. I was unable to book a tour of the facility, which I understand are only conducted in Japanese, but did visit the museum. On one hand, it's mostly a commercial for its many products though this process is setout in an understandable manner and the presentation is very good. The highlight, of course, is sampling the output. This can get interesting as one is offered an almost unlimited menu of choices which range in price from 300 to 1000 yen. I limited myself to three samples which were pleasantly distinct from each other and all enjoyable. Water is provided to add if necessary. Note: while entrance for the tour is very near the JR Station, getting to the museum is a bit of a hike. The story of the brand is most interesting and well worth a read before a visit.
Written 13 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
なおかり
Aichi Prefecture, Japan6,686 contributions
Aug 2023 • Solo
It is no exaggeration to say that Yoichi is synonymous with Nikka Whisky, as it is such an iconic spot. It is recommended that you make a reservation in advance and take the 70-minute tour course (with free tasting), but even without that, you can still enjoy the museum for free, buy souvenirs, eat, and pay for tastings (very cheap, starting at 100 yen per glass). It is within walking distance of Yoichi Station.
Written 4 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ScambusterSZ
Sydney, Australia1,832 contributions
Mar 2021
The distillery was very nice to visit with the old buildings, gardens and visitor centres. If you’re in the area is well worth a visit.
You can plant to have lunch at the restaurant on the property (or one nearby to town).
You can spend 30-40mins or a couple of hours.
You can plant to have lunch at the restaurant on the property (or one nearby to town).
You can spend 30-40mins or a couple of hours.
Written 15 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ひろ44
Niigata, Japan3,104 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
This is the whiskey distillery that was the setting for the morning drama Massan.
You can tour the factory by reservation.
Enter through the main gate.
This is an area that is not open to the general public.
Parking is different from that for general visitors, and you park in a special parking lot on the left side of the main gate as you head towards the roadside station.
A guide will guide you every 30 minutes from 9am.
At the reception, you will receive a sticker to wear on your chest and a tasting ticket for tasting.
In addition to tasting, you will also need this when re-entering the general area after leaving.
In addition, drivers and those who cannot drink alcohol will be given apple juice and Calpis.
The tour is 70 minutes long, so you will pass other visitors on the way.
The guide will carefully explain the history and role of each building.
Some buildings are still in use, while others are already historical buildings.
There was also Massan's house, which was relocated.
The tour ends with a tasting in the tasting hall.
Several monitors on the wall were broadcasting Nikka Whisky's past TV commercials.
Since I had some time, I decided to visit the Nikka Museum.
It was a very worthwhile half day.
I highly recommend it.
You can tour the factory by reservation.
Enter through the main gate.
This is an area that is not open to the general public.
Parking is different from that for general visitors, and you park in a special parking lot on the left side of the main gate as you head towards the roadside station.
A guide will guide you every 30 minutes from 9am.
At the reception, you will receive a sticker to wear on your chest and a tasting ticket for tasting.
In addition to tasting, you will also need this when re-entering the general area after leaving.
In addition, drivers and those who cannot drink alcohol will be given apple juice and Calpis.
The tour is 70 minutes long, so you will pass other visitors on the way.
The guide will carefully explain the history and role of each building.
Some buildings are still in use, while others are already historical buildings.
There was also Massan's house, which was relocated.
The tour ends with a tasting in the tasting hall.
Several monitors on the wall were broadcasting Nikka Whisky's past TV commercials.
Since I had some time, I decided to visit the Nikka Museum.
It was a very worthwhile half day.
I highly recommend it.
Written 23 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Zachary H
Tokyo, Japan5,663 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
The tour is free (currently must be reserved in advance due to COVID) and the tasting is great (also free). The gift shop includes bottles of the signature whisky, as well as limited edition bottles that are only available at the distillery.
Taking the train from Sapporo to Yoichi is easy and fun.
Tip: Arrive no sooner than 15 minutes in advance of your reservation (you won’t be let in earlier, due to pandemic restrictions).
Taking the train from Sapporo to Yoichi is easy and fun.
Tip: Arrive no sooner than 15 minutes in advance of your reservation (you won’t be let in earlier, due to pandemic restrictions).
Written 3 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ScambusterSZ
Sydney, Australia1,832 contributions
Nov 2021 • Family
The distillery was very nice to visit with the old buildings, gardens and visitor centres. If you’re in the area is well worth a visit.
You can plant to have lunch at the restaurant on the property (or one nearby to town).
You can spend 30-40mins or a couple of hours.
You can plant to have lunch at the restaurant on the property (or one nearby to town).
You can spend 30-40mins or a couple of hours.
Written 23 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
capsicum0620
Thailand1,018 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
Discovery visit to a distillery (attention, reservation required to participate in the tour).
The museum is modest but informative. The shop, crowded at all hours, is very well stocked and offers "humane" prices.
Note: from Otaru, only one train per hour to reach Yoichi and then return.
The museum is modest but informative. The shop, crowded at all hours, is very well stocked and offers "humane" prices.
Note: from Otaru, only one train per hour to reach Yoichi and then return.
Written 4 May 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, I am thinking of visiting the distillery on a Sunday, may I know if the distillery is open on Sunday and if I need to book a tour? Thank you!
Written 28 June 2019
Yes, you should definitely visit and Sunday's work.
Be prepared to walk the distillery yourself and be ready for unlimited tasting of one of Japan's best known liquor brands.
Written 28 June 2019
I can't find any where online where i could buy distillery visit tickets for a specific day.
Don't want to fly all the way out from tokyo to find out they are full etc.
Please help.
Written 14 May 2019
nikkayoichi
Sapporo, Japan
Thank you for your message. You don't need the ticket. But if you come to our distillery with more than 11 people or by charter bus, you need the book. Please call to 0135233131. Thank you!!
Written 15 May 2019
Hi . Can children below 12 years old visit the distillery?
Written 9 May 2019
Yes, they welcome everyone. However, they do not serve alcohol to people who are drivers, pregnant, and minors (19y and below).
Written 9 May 2019
Where do you find the app please? I had a look at Apple app store but couldn't see it. Thanks
Written 24 October 2018
nikkayoichi
Sapporo, Japan
We apologize for the inconvinience.
Our app is "yamaha audioguide".
You can download it from your smarthone's app market.
("Apple store"or"Google store")
When you come to our distillery,download app,and
scan QRcode.
We are looking forward to seeing you.
Sincerely.
Written 26 October 2018
Anyone know which bottles can be bought at the shop? Any distillery-only bottles (even NAS)?
Written 16 June 2018
nikkayoichi
Sapporo, Japan
Thank you for contacting us.
We have these regular products:
・Super Nikka
・From the Barrel
・Taketsuru etc...
and Limited ones are
・Yoichi Single Malt
"WOODY&VANILLIC"
"PEATY&SALTY"
"SHERRY&SWEET"
Please note that some products might be sold out.
※These are part of the product.
Written 21 June 2018
pebblebeads p
Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
Hi, anyone knows the cost of using hakodate line to travel from otaru station to Nikka Whiskey Yoichi Distillery?
Thanks
Written 15 May 2018
nikkayoichi
Sapporo, Japan
Thank you for contact about your visit.
The cost from Otaru to Yoichi is 360yen.
I'm looking forward to seeing you.
Written 15 May 2018
peisiho
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hi, may I know is the kids allowed to visit? We are in family trip so my kids will follow us to all the places too.
Written 4 May 2018
nikkayoichi
Sapporo, Japan
Thank you for contact us.
You can visit here with your kids.
We prepare juice for kids.
We are looking forward to seeing you.
Written 6 May 2018
Hi, I'm going to be making a visit to the distillery by train with my luggages. Is there luggage storage at the train station or on site at the distillery?
Written 2 March 2018
nikkayoichi
Sapporo, Japan
Thank you for contact us.
Actually we have some coinlockers but it's a limit to the number,
and there is no baggage strage in the station.
I'm afraid if you have some big baggages,
please leave them at the hotel. Thank you.
We are looking foward to seeing you
Written 27 March 2018
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