Honest Report on the Drama Set: Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

I visited the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, which is also the setting for the morning drama 'Massan'. I took a train from Otaru, which took about 25 minutes. Since there are only one or two trains per hour, make sure to check the schedule carefully! There is also a bus that takes about 40 minutes (both cost 440 yen one way). You need a reservation for the tour! We called on the same day and were able to get a reservation (on a weekday). You can learn how whisky is made and even tour parts of the factory that are usually off-limits. You can not only see but also smell the changing aromas as the whisky is being made. There is also a simple explanation in English, so I think overseas visitors can enjoy it too! At the end, we got to taste three types of whisky. They teach you the recommended way to drink it, so you can enjoy it deliciously. For those who can't drink alcohol or drivers, soft drinks are provided. After that, we bought some souvenirs! If you go a bit earlier, there is also a restaurant. The tour is free, so definitely check it out!