Yamazaki Distillery

Yamazaki. Where it all began in 1923.

The Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s first and oldest malt whisky distillery established in 1923 by Suntory's founder Shinjiro Torii.

Inspired by traditional Scottish whisky, Torii envisioned a Japanese approach by choosing a terrain and climate completely different to those of Scotland to create a unique kind of whisky. The Yamazaki Distillery is thus the birthplace of Japanese whisky. Nestled proudly on the periphery of Kyoto, this region was formerly referred to as "Minaseno", where one of the purest waters of Japan originates.

Yamazaki is also home to Sen no Rikyu, Master of "The Way of Tea." Yamazaki Distillery is where the Katsura, Uji and Kizu rivers converge, providing a unique misty climate and one of Japan’s softest waters. The diversity of this region’s temperature and humidity creates ideal conditions for cask aging, known as the signature "Suntory Maturation".

Tours and Tasting

Spring water running down green-leaf covered rocks to a stream in Japan

Balancing Nature with Craft

Good whisky requires good water and proper maturation in the right environment. Torii strived for a uniquely Japanese whisky to surpass Scotch whisky, and searched for a genuinely Japanese climate for years. Yamazaki lies in a misty valley between Mt.Tennozan and Mt. Otokoyama where three rivers meet. It has one of Japan’s softest waters and is ideal for whisky maturation. This choice of location has been proven by the quality of whisky produced in the Yamazaki distillers for many years.

Whisky Making at Yamazaki

Yamazaki Distillery is distinguished by its uniqueness that a single distillery can produce a variety of whiskies, which a very few distilleries in the world can match. It all started with Suntory’s pursuit of crafting world-class whisky to please the delicate Japanese palate. In every process of whisky making - fermentation, distillation, aging, and vatting - the distillery's craftsmen have been adding new innovations while continuing to practice skills passed down by their predecessors.

2024 Yamazaki and Hakushu Kogei Collection

This collection is a testament to the concept of ‘kogei’, meaning ‘traditional Japanese craft’. The product of Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo’s creative craftsmanship, these single malts from the Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries use peated malt and maturation in Spanish oak casks to enhance and deepen the unique flavor profile, producing a colorful spice character with smoky notes.

The spirit of kogei infuses the packaging and label design from Chiso, Kyoto’s highly renowned kimono house. Since 1555, Chiso has honored the tradition of crafting kimono, while also challenging convention. The designs are based on actual kimonos and draw inspiration from the stunning natural surroundings of both distilleries. Experience a true embodiment of craft through inspired innovation in the Kogei Collection.

Travel exclusive: available only at airport retail

A Newly Enhanced Experience

An air of refinement greets visitors as they enter the newly updated Yamazaki Distillery. Now with more space to explore, access to new areas for in-person tours and modern design features, the distillery brings visitors face-to-face with the nature and artistry that goes into crafting our fine whiskies.

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Visit Yamazaki Distillery

Join us in-person for flexible tour options around the newly renovated Yamazaki Distillery.

Yamazaki Distillery Tour 1

Yamazaki Distillery Tour 2

Find Us or Get in Touch

For reservations and inquiries, please contact:

Information Desk 81-075-962-1423
(Hours: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm)

Suntory Yamazaki Distillery
5-2-1 Yamazaki, Shimamoto-cho, Mishima-gun, Osaka

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MORE TO EXPLORE

About House of Suntory

Founded in 1899, Shinjiro Torii built the House of Suntory with a singular vision: to craft quintessentially Japanese spirits that would suit the delicate palate of his people.

Discover About Us

Statue of the founder of the House of Suntory, who shaped Japanese craftsmanship

The Yamazaki Range

The Yamazaki Whisky is Suntory's flagship single malt whisky, from Japan’s first and oldest malt distillery. With a range of options from Yamazaki DIstiller’s Reserve to 12, 18, and 25 years old, all of these prestigious whiskies contain carefully blended components aged in American, Spanish, and Japanese Mizunara oak.

Yamazaki 55 year bottle in wooden box