2026 Yoichi Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

[A view so stunning it doesn't even feel like Hokkaido ⛰️✨] "Mt. Shiripa" in Yoichi Town. It takes about 2 to 3 hours to hike, but the "Shakotan Blue" you can see near the summit is absolutely breathtaking! The water is so incredibly clear, it honestly made me wonder, "Am I really in Hokkaido...?" 🥹 The famous spot on the Shakotan Peninsula, "Cape Kamui," is gorgeous too, but Mt. Shiripa is a hidden gem where you can enjoy looking down at the Shakotan Blue from above ✨ You'll definitely work up a sweat on the way 😂 But because of that, the feeling of accomplishment when you arrive is huge! Nearby, there's also Ebisu Rock and Daikoku Rock, so I recommend checking them out while on a drive ☺️ You can start your hike near Yoichi Shrine, and there's an awesome smokehouse nearby ✨ They smoke not just salmon, but unique items like tofu and tomatoes, so I couldn't help but want to buy everything 🤭 Yoichi Town really has so much to offer! I honestly prefer Yoichi over Otaru hands down ✨ When traveling in Hokkaido, it made me think, "It's a waste to only visit Sapporo and Otaru!" It was truly that wonderful of a place! This is a view I highly encourage international travelers to see. If you decide to make the climb, I recommend downloading the YAMAP app beforehand ⛰️ Also, you definitely can't hike this in fashion sandals 😂 Proper, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended! ⸻ trip

✈️☃️ Trip japan Hokkaido - Fuji- Nagoya 🗻🌸 ✨ Day 9-16/3/2026 7 Night 8 Day Road trip 🚗 · 9/3/26- พัก Asahikawa Air bnb อาซาฮิกาว่า ❄️ · ทานข้าวร้าน local Naganama Community park · ช้อปปิ้ง Uniqlo Asahikawa · ทานซูชิ ร้าน Hama-Sushi Asahikawa · 10/3/26 - พัก hotel munin Furano โรงแรมมูนิน ฟูราโนะ · เดินทางไป biei ถ่ายรูป blue Pond (สระน้ำสีฟ้า) · น้ำตก Shirahige Waterfall · คริสมาสทรี Chrismas Tree · Ningle Terrace กระท่อมไม้ เทพนิยาย · 11-12/3/26 - Wyndham Garden Supporo Odori hotel 🌃 โรงแรม วินแดม การ์เด้น ซัปโปโร โอโดริ 2 คืน 🛍️ 11/2/26 · เล่นหิมะที่ furano land เป็นเรือยาง สนุกมากๆ ที่ไปไม่ได้เล่น snow mobill เพราะเค้าปิดบริการ จะอยู่ข้างๆ ningle terrace เลย · ไปคลองโอตารุ Otaru · มีงานเทศกาลไฟ ที่สวน Odori park · หอคอย Supporo TV tower · ทานเนื้อย่างร้าน hay meet ย่าน Susukino 🚗 12/2/26 · 🛍️ ถนนคนเดินที่ Tanukikoji shopping street ถนนที่มีหลังคายาว 1 Km. · ป้ายไฟ Nikka Whiskey · เย็น ชมวิวเมือง Supporo ที่ Mt.Moiwa มีกระเช้าลอยฟ้า 13/3/26 ✈️บินระหว่างเมือง Airport CTS- NGO ซิโตเซะ-นาโกย่า เดินทางจากสนามบินไปโรงแรมที่ฟูจิ ใช้เวลาประมาณ 3 ชม. · 13-14/3/26 - the gran resort princess fujikawaguchiko 🌸 พักเดอะกราน รีสอร์ท ปริ้นเซล ฟูจิคาวาฟูจิโกะ 2 คืน🌸 · แวะถ่ายรูปที่ Lawson · ถ่ายรูปวิวทะเลสาบ Lake Kawaguchiko · แวะไปถ้ำน้ำแข็ง Narusawa ice cave · แวะทานข้าวที่ และซื้อขอฃฝาก ที่ Mt.fuji panoramic ropeway · ไปต่อที่หมู่บ้านน้ำใส แวะทานอาหาร ไอติม ปลาย่าง ปลาหมึกย่าง เนื้อย่าง โอเด้ง โมจิย่าง · มาต่อ ศาลเจ้าคิตะกุจิ ฮงกูฟูจิเซ็นเก็น (Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja) · ปิดจบวันด้วยการทานอาหาร ที่ร้าน yazaki เช้าวันต่อมาเดินทางกลับเข้าเมืองนาโกย่า แวะฝากกระเป๋าที่โรงแรมก่อน เพราะเช็คอินได้ 15:00 น. · 15/3/26- Travelodge Nagoya Skae 🌆 โรงแรมทราเวลลอด นาโกย่า ซาคาเอะ · แวะเที่ยวปราสาทนาโกย่า Nagoya แวะชมวัฒนธรรม การแสดง และทานไอติมสุดแสนอร่อย · แวะช้อปปิ้งซื้อของฝากที่ ดองกิ · และ ขึ้นชิงช้าสวรรค์ที่ ตึก sunshine sakae · ทานอาหารร้าน Nagaya Daisakaba Daruma เป็นอาหารสไตล์ของเมืองนี้ · ปิดจบทริปด้วยร้านอาหารไทย ชื่อ Sukhontha กลับเข้าโรงแรมเตรียมตัวบินกลับประเทศไทย ✈️ ✈️ 16/3/26- 09:40 - 14:25 > Thai AirAsia XJ639 ตั๋วขากลับ นาโกย่า-ดอนเมือง

Be sure to book their free tour! You can explore the distillery equipment and environment, listen to experts explain the whisky-making process and steps (with synchronized app translations), and enjoy free tastings of three types of whisky and apple juice! Here's a detailed explanation of the whisky-making process shared by the experts~~~ Yoichi Distillery was founded by Masataka Taketsuru on July 2, 1934. He was the first Japanese person to study whisky-making in Scotland. Yoichi is an amazing place with the perfect climate and humidity for whisky production, which is why the distillery was built here! The whisky production process includes malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, maturation/storage, and bottling. Yoichi Distillery uses two-row barley to produce malt whisky. 【Malting】 Two-row barley is soaked in water and allowed to germinate to produce malt. The malt is spread on the upper layer while peat (carbonized plant material accumulated over time) burns in the lower furnace, drying the malt with smoke and infusing it with a unique smoky aroma that gives whisky its distinctive flavor. 【Mashing】 The malt is crushed in a grinder and sent to a mash tun where it is mixed with water heated to over 65°C for mashing and filtration. Enzymes in the malt convert starch into sugar. The sugar content of the wort is 16-18 degrees, comparable to Hokkaido melons. After cooling, the wort is transported via pipes to fermentation tanks, while the residue left in the mash tun is used as feed for dairy cows. 【Fermentation】 The wort from the mash tun is placed in fermentation tanks, where Nikka's proprietary whisky yeast is added for fermentation over four days. Sugars are broken down into alcohol and CO2, producing aromatic compounds and wort with an alcohol content of over 8%. The wort is then transported through pipes at the bottom of the fermentation tanks to the distillation building. 【Distillation】 The wort is sent to pot stills for two rounds of distillation. Alcohol boils at 78.3°C, while water boils at 100°C. Alcohol and aromatic compounds evaporate first, and the vapor is cooled in condensers behind the walls, returning to liquid form. The first distillation takes place in the four pot stills at the front, where the alcohol content reaches about 20%. The second distillation occurs in the two pot stills at the back, where the alcohol content exceeds 63%, producing a colorless and transparent new spirit. The shape and size of the stills, as well as the heating method, influence the flavor and characteristics of the whisky. Yoichi Distillery uses wide-neck pot stills heated directly by coal fire, resulting in rich and robust whisky. 【Maturation and Storage】 The storage area occupies more than half of the entire distillery site. Currently, the site covers 130,000 square meters, equivalent to 10 baseball fields. When it was first established, it was only about 1/10 of its current size, but it gradually expanded to its present scale. 【Bottling】 Yoichi's cold and humid climate is ideal for slow whisky maturation. Oak barrels of varying capacities and origins give the whisky more character. The raw spirit in the oak barrels continues to breathe with the wood, gradually evaporating into the atmosphere during maturation—a phenomenon known as "the angel's share." After blending and bottling, the whisky is sent to the market for sale. 🥃 Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery ニッカウヰスキー 余市蒸溜所 📍 Japan〒046-0003 Hokkaido, Yoichi District, Yoichi, Kurokawacho, 7 Chome−6−133

Honestly, Tokyo in February is just too “much”! Not only is the sky an unbelievable shade of blue, but there’s also winter-exclusive romance and warmth everywhere, making you want to pack up all the beauty and take it with you! 【Must-See Winter Scenery】 · Meiji Shrine: Free. On winter afternoons, sunlight filters through towering ancient trees, casting light on the gravel-covered approach. The air is crisp and sacred. Occasionally, you can see newlyweds in traditional kimonos holding Japanese-style weddings here, adding a festive touch to the quiet winter day. · Imperial Palace East Gardens: Free. This is an oasis in the city center. In February, the plum blossoms quietly begin to bloom. Although not yet in full bloom, the scattered red and white spots against the bare branches and historic buildings look especially elegant, making it a joy to “seek plum blossoms.” · Odaiba Seaside Park: Free. The winter sea breeze in Odaiba is a bit chilly but worth visiting. Standing next to the Statue of Liberty replica, you can see the Rainbow Bridge spanning Tokyo Bay and, in the distance, Fuji TV building, giving a uniquely modern Tokyo city vibe. On clear days, you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji. · Roppongi Hills Observation Deck: Admission 1800 yen. This is an excellent spot to view Tokyo Tower. On February evenings, you can watch the city lights gradually turn on from the 52nd-floor floor-to-ceiling windows. Tokyo Tower glows warmly in red at dusk, creating a stunning urban nightscape with the bustling traffic below. 【Food Recommendations】 · Ichiran Ramen: About 1000 yen/bowl. Classic tonkotsu ramen with customizable flavors. Each person sits in a private booth, focusing on enjoying a hot bowl of noodles—an incredibly comforting moment for solo food lovers. · Daiwa Sushi / Sushi Dai (Tsukiji Market): Around 3000-4000 yen per person, with queues. You get the freshest sashimi, freshly hand-pressed by the chef right in front of you. The melt-in-your-mouth experience is worth waking up early for. · Ningyocho Imahan (Sukiyaki): Over 8000 yen per person. A century-old restaurant serving premium wagyu sukiyaki, a luxurious treat for yourself. The beef dipped in egg melts in your mouth, bubbling with happiness. · Convenience Store Desserts/Fried Snacks: 100-300 yen. FamilyMart, Lawson, and 7-Eleven have hidden gems! Various limited-edition ice creams, puddings, and sandwiches—buy anything and you won’t go wrong. 【Specialty Restaurant Recommendations】 · Nemuro Hanamaru Conveyor Belt Sushi (Ginza branch): High cost-performance conveyor belt sushi with fresh ingredients, often crowded. You can eat very satisfyingly for about 2000 yen per person. · AFURI Ramen: Famous for yuzu shio (citrus salt) ramen, the broth is light and refreshing with a subtle yuzu aroma—a great alternative after indulging in rich tonkotsu ramen. Around 1000 yen per person. · Any Yakitori shop in Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho: This narrow alley full of Showa-era charm hides countless small yakitori shops. Just pop into one, order a few skewers, squeeze in with strangers, have a beer, and experience the most down-to-earth Tokyo vibe. 【4-Day Itinerary】 Day 1: Sensoji Temple (Kimono Experience) + Kaminarimon + Nakamise Street → Tokyo Skytree Night View · Daytime: Wear a kimono in Asakusa, take beautiful photos, and feel like you’ve traveled back to the Edo period. · Evening: Enjoy the dazzling night view of Tokyo from the Skytree. Day 2: Ueno Park (Museums) + Ameyoko Street Snacks → Akihabara → Ginza Shopping · Daytime: Artistic morning, anime afternoon, upscale shopping evening—experience three different sides of Tokyo in one day. Day 3: Meiji Shrine → Harajuku/Omotesando → Shibuya → Shinjuku · All day: This route captures the essence of Tokyo’s fashion and culture, from traditional shrines to trendy hotspots, with nonstop eating and exploring. Day 4: Tsukiji Market Seafood Breakfast → Imperial Palace Running/Walking → Departure · Morning: Start the last day with your taste buds, then enjoy a leisurely morning at the foot of the Imperial Palace. · Afternoon: Pack up and head home, full of memories. 【Best Photo Spots】 · Sensoji Temple Five-Story Pagoda: Use the pagoda as a backdrop and find a slightly off-center angle inside the temple grounds to avoid crowds. · Shibuya Crossing Zebra Crosswalk: When the green light turns on, cross with the crowd and have a friend capture the moment from across the street or from above for a dynamic shot. · Roppongi Hills Observation Deck by the Floor-to-Ceiling Windows: Have a friend crouch and shoot wide-angle from below with you standing by the window, Tokyo Tower and the city behind you for a visually striking photo. · Odaiba Statue of Liberty: Frame the Statue of Liberty, Rainbow Bridge, and the city skyscrapers behind it in one shot, pretending you’re in New York. 【Notes】 · Keep Warm: Tokyo’s average temperature in February is 0-10°C. Indoor heating is available, but it’s windy outside. Layering is recommended for easy on and off. Thermal underwear + sweater + thick coat, scarf is a must. · Payment Methods: Although many malls and restaurants accept Alipay/WeChat Pay, many small shops and ramen places only accept cash or Suica cards. Carry enough cash. · Trash Disposal: Trash must be sorted. Convenience store bins usually only accept trash purchased inside the store. · Language: Basic English and gestures work, but downloading a translation app is more convenient.

While the JR line takes you from Otaru to Yoichi in about 35 minutes, traveling by bus is actually more convenient and comfortable. 🚍✨ Local buses depart and arrive at Otaru Bus Terminal approximately every 30 minutes, making them a convenient way to get around. However, we especially recommend the "Express Bus to Iwanai." With fewer stops, the bus runs smoothly and arrives in Yoichi in about 40 minutes. The seats are spacious and comfortable, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery while enjoying the sightseeing. 🌊 The Otaru Bus Terminal, located right next to Otaru Station, offers excellent access, tourist information, coin lockers, and restrooms. This is the perfect place to get ready before your trip. 🎒 What's more, buses within Otaru City accept contactless payment with IC cards and credit cards, making it incredibly convenient. 💳 However, JR Yoichi Station does not accept contactless payment, so if you're traveling by train to Yoichi Station, you'll need to purchase a ticket. The one-way fare for adults on the Hokkaido Chuo Bus route from Otaru Station (near Otaru Bus Terminal) to Yoichi Station is ¥560. Fares may vary slightly depending on the bus route and time of day, so please check the latest fare before boarding. 😊 Once you arrive in Yoichi, a must-see is the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery. 🥃 Just a short walk from Yoichi Station, the vast grounds—the size of three Tokyo Domes—are dotted with buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties, including the drying and distilling buildings and Rita House. The beautiful brick buildings, seemingly frozen in time, are filled with the deep, sweet aroma of whiskey. ⭐️ The tour is free (reservations required) and lasts approximately 70 minutes. Experience the story of Masataka Taketsuru and his wife, Rita, while getting a close-up look at the manufacturing process. You can enjoy the museum, restaurant, and shop in the free viewing area without a reservation. The paid tasting area is also popular (free tastings are available with the tour). The smoked cheese vending machine is perfect for tastings. 🧀 The staff are friendly, and there are plenty of pamphlets in foreign languages. It closes in the evening, so we recommend visiting early. ⏰ [Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery] 📍Address: 7-6 Kurokawa-cho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido About a 2-minute walk from JR Yoichi Station. 🚃 Get off at the "Yoichi Ekimae" bus stop. 🚌 Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (tours require reservations and are free). Tour reservations can be made on the official website. #Otaru #Yoichi #NikkaWhiskyYoichiDistillery #OtaruTransportation #OtaruBusTerminal #HowToGetToYoichi #JapanTravelGuide

[Otaru's Northern Donburi Restaurant, Takinami Shokudo] A 30-second walk from Otaru Station. A seafood restaurant located inside the Sankaku Market. 🥢 With a wide variety of toppings, the popular "Wagamama Donburi" (Choose three dishes for 2,970 yen) is a hit. ⭐️ This popular restaurant offers rare Hokkaido ingredients like raw star anise sashimi and tsubudai (sea urchin), attracting repeat customers. ✨ The restaurant is chair-only and not very spacious, but the turnover is high and the flow is good, so be prepared to wait in line. 👍 We recommend coming around 4 PM to avoid crowds. ♪ Payment is cash only. 📍Address: 3-10-16 Inaho, Otaru, Hokkaido Hours: 8 AM - 5 PM [Wakadori Jidai Naruto Main Branch] Tabelog Top 100 Restaurants ✨ A renowned restaurant for "zangi," a fried chicken dish originating from Hokkaido. 🐔 Bring your seat card and pay at the register first, and they'll bring your order to you. The 1,080 yen fried chicken half is brimming with juices and a deliciously salty flavor that tickles your fancy—a taste you'll want to eat every day! ⭐️ The restaurant is spacious, and even when it's busy, you'll be called in surprisingly quickly! You write your name down and wait in the waiting room. Counter seating is also available, making it a great choice for solo diners. ❤️ Open all night long! 👍 Quiet location, about a 6-minute walk from Otaru Station. Credit cards and electronic payments accepted. 📍Address: 3-16-13 Inaho, Otaru, Hokkaido Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM [Kakizaki Shoten] When you think of Yoichi, you think of Kakizaki Shoten! 3-minute walk from Yoichi Station. 👏 Frequently frequented by locals, this affordable, affordable supermarket stocks everything from seafood to everyday items. ✨ There's always a long line at the second-floor restaurant, "Kaisen Kobo." ⭐️ The freshness of the seafood is guaranteed. ❤️ The 1,750 yen seafood bowl is so filling it's sure to sell out. The restaurant is spacious and the turnover is fast, so even if you're waiting in line down the stairs, you'll be called in about 20 minutes. 💡 You pay at the register and then sit down. The shop on the first floor accepts credit cards and electronic payments, but the restaurant on the second floor only accepts cash. You can buy boiled crabs for around 1000 yen, so it's a great idea to get your fill of seafood at the hotel. 👍 It's about a 35-minute train ride from Otaru to Yoichi. 🚃 There are also plenty of buses. 🚌 📍Address: 7-25 Kurokawa-cho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (restaurant opens at 10:00 AM) Closed: Thursdays All of these restaurants are worth the wait. ⭐️ Go and check them out! ❤️ #Otaru #Yoichi #OtaruGourmet #YoichiGourmet #Hokkaido #JapanTravelGuide

Looking to explore the lesser-known coastal treasures of Hokkaido? This route from Shakotan Peninsula to Otaru takes you through the "Shakotan Blue" sea, volcanic cliffs, and ends with the aroma of whiskey and the romantic charm of canals! 🌅 First Stop: Cape Kamui 📍 Address: 380-6 Funamimachi, Shakotan-cho, Shakotan-gun, Hokkaido 🚇 Transportation: ① Start at JR Yoichi Station 🚉 ② Take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus 🚌 heading to Cape Kamui, approximately 2 hours ③ Get off at the final stop 🚏 ④ Walk 770m from the parking lot 🚶 to the cape summit, about 20 minutes 🌊 Highlights: ✅ 360° Observation Deck: Witness the collision of "Shakotan Blue" waters and volcanic cliffs ✅ Legend of Kamui Rock: Ainu folklore of a maiden's tragic love story adds a mysterious aura to the giant rock ✅ Formerly a "No-Women Zone," now a romantic photo spot 🍴 Food: Try the sea urchin rice bowl (freshly cut sea urchin + rice) at nearby seafood stalls Tips: 👟 Wear a windproof jacket and hiking shoes; the coastal winds are strong, and the trail is rocky. Closed during winter (late October to late April). 🌋 Second Stop: Shimamui Coast 📍 Address: About 1 km east of Cape Kamui summit 🚇 Transportation: About 30 minutes by car from Cape Kamui, or take a local bus (limited service, check schedules in advance) 📸 Experiences: ✅ Mysterious Tunnel Adventure: Pass through a 50-meter tunnel from darkness to light, reaching an observation deck 83 meters above sea level with views of the "Glass Sea" ✅ High Water Transparency: Selected as one of "Japan's 100 Beautiful Seas," with exceptionally clear waters in summer ✅ Volcanic Rock Wonders: Sea caves, wave-cut platforms, and jagged reefs—a must-visit for geology enthusiasts! 🍎 Third Stop: Yoichi NITORI Tourist Orchard 📍 Address: Yoichi Town, Hokkaido 🚗 Transportation: About 1 hour by car from Shimamui Coast, or take a taxi from JR Yoichi Station 🍉 Seasonal Fruit Calendar: ✅ June-July: Cherries, Strawberries ✅ August-September: Apples, Plums, Pears, Peaches, Grapes, Blueberries ✅ October: Persimmons, Apples 🎫 Picking Fees: All-you-can-eat: Adults (middle school and above) 2,000 yen / Elementary school students 1,500 yen / Children (3-5 years old) 700 yen 🏮 Fourth Stop: Otaru ✅ Otaru Canal: A symbolic landmark of Otaru and Hokkaido, featuring oil lamps and retro warehouses. Also a filming location for the drama "Love Letter." 🍣 Food: ✅ Kita no Gyoba: Fresh sea urchin, botan shrimp sashimi, snow crab sashimi, and live abalone sashimi 💡 Tips: The interior is simple, but the ingredients and flavors are top-notch, perfect for those seeking authentic tastes. ✅ Otaru Canal Food Court: A collection of 10 diverse restaurants offering everything from Hokkaido miso ramen and crab dishes to Genghis Khan BBQ 💡 Tips: The seafood rice bowls here are hearty and delicious, ideal for a satisfying meal.

NIKKA WHISKY Yoichi Distillery is one of Japan's most iconic whisky brands. Located near JR Hakodate Main Line Yoichi Station, it's just a 25-minute train ride from Otaru. Japanese whisky, which originated from Scotland, is known for its light and delicate flavors, making it suitable for Asian palates. Visitors can tour the Scottish-style distillery and its equipment to gain a deeper understanding of the whisky-making process and related knowledge. The Whisky Museum, converted from a storage room, showcases the history and brand stories of many whiskies. In the tasting room, you can sample different flavors of whisky before heading to the sales area to purchase Yoichi's renowned whiskies. This is a must-visit spot for whisky lovers.

Nikka Whisky is famous in Japan 🥃 I'm sure many people drink it for an evening drink. Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery was a lot of fun because you can learn about the manufacturing process and history of whiskey, and you can also enjoy paid tastings of rare whiskeys and a restaurant where you can also enjoy a meal!! You can see the whiskey bottles of Taketsuru and Yoichi from the past, and the exhibits are very beautiful and worth seeing. I think it's a great facility for whiskey lovers♪ #100TravelStyle #YoichiDistillery #YoichiTourism #DomesticTravel #HokkaidoTrip

#JapanTravel #NikkaWhiskey #NikkaWhiskeyDistillery If you are interested in whiskey, If you go to Yoichi Nikka Distillery in Hokkaido, There is a shop that you must not miss. Distillery Shop - Northland They sell special Nikka whiskey that can only be purchased here If you are a whiskey enthusiast, you should definitely bring 1-2 bottles. There are so many kinds that you will have a strong choice paralysis But once you pay, you will feel at ease. It is even better if it is for a gift or for your own consumption! This is a recommended whiskey shop.

I stayed at a hotel in Yoichi, Hokkaido that I had been curious about because it looked like Harry Potter 🏨 Yoichi Abrandt Hotel is a hotel with distinctive British-style architecture. There is also a golf course, and I got the impression that many people stayed there just to play golf. The owner was very friendly and showed me around the hotel with me and gave me lots of advice ✨ There is also a billiards room inside, giving it a grown-up atmosphere. There is also a large public bath, so I was able to relax ♨️ ⁡ By the way, I brought my gown and cane from home 😂 ⁡ #HotelReview #HokkaidoTrip #HotelStay

#wecreate For all the whisky lovers, you will be thrilled to know that there is a Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery in Hokkaido, Yoichi. You can take a train from Sapporo and alight at at Yoichi Station, which is just 5 minutes away from the Distillery. You can tour around the Distillery and it is free to enter. In the Distillery, there is a museum where you learn more about the story Nikka Whisky and how their Whisky is produced. You can also see crates and barrel of their Whisky and how their packaging and designs of their Whisky has changed along the years. Do stay after you're done touring the Distillery, for a small price you can sample different types of their Nikka Whisky. Overall, a great experience and lovely time at Nikka Whisky Distillery and we would recommend this place to others too.

Nikka Whisky's Yoichi Distillery has an area that is open to the public. In addition to the Nikka Museum, which tells the history of Nikka Whisky, there is a restaurant and a souvenir shop. In addition to delicious food, you can also taste whiskey at the restaurant. In the souvenir shop, you can buy various Nikka Whisky brand bottles. Japanese whiskey is popular now, and you can buy bottles that are hard to find here. If you like alcohol, please visit us.  Address: 7-6 Kurokawa-cho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido Access: 3 minutes walk from Yoichi Station, 35 minutes by bus or 25 minutes by train from Otaru Station #Domestic travel #Hokkaido #Hokkaido trip #Yoichi distillery

Yoichi Town, Hokkaido View from Hamanaka-Moire Beach Looking towards Yoichi Port. No matter where you cut out the scenery of Hokkaido's ocean, mountains and nature, it's picturesque. Even places that aren't famous tourist spots and don't attract many tourists' attention shine! It's a place with nothing in particular, but it looked special😊 #Hokkaido #Yoichi #AmazingView #HokkaidoTourism #HokkaidoTrip #Japan #TripLucky2022

This is a scenic spot in Yoichi Town, famous for its wine. It is a huge rock formation standing about 500 meters offshore, with a height of about 45 meters. It looks quite small from the road, but you can get very close by on a sightseeing boat. It's very impressive. #Hokkaido #Seaside scenery #Supporting tourism#Breathtaking scenery

Yoichi Distillery / Nikka Whisky ♡ Currently, tours are only available by reservation, but they offer free guided tours where you can hear various stories and enjoy a whisky tasting at the end! #EasternJapan #YoichiDistillery/NikkaWhisky #FreeTasting #EasternJapan

amazing place and beach 🏖 near from Otaru-Shi

#slowtraveling Taketsuru Sake Brewery in Takehara (founded 1733, 5 min walk from the station) is the birthplace of Masataka Taketsuru — the man who brought whisky to Japan. The brewery itself is a working sake operation, but the alley behind it (a 50m lane of white-plaster walls and 200-year-old beams) is where Taketsuru grew up. Free to walk, 24/7, brewery shop 9:00–17:00 (cards OK, tax-free over ¥5,000). I went on a Friday at 11:00. The shop sells a ¥500 tasting set (three 30ml cups of their Junmai Ginjo, Daiginjo, and a whisky-cask-aged sake). I bought a ¥1,800 bottle of the cask-aged (cash, they prefer it under ¥3,000). The alley has a bronze statue of young Taketsuru (donated by Nikka, his company) and a plaque in Japanese only. Mistake: expecting a whisky museum — it’s a sake brewery with a whisky backstory. Another: going on a Monday (closed). Rule: don’t photograph the production area (signs in Japanese). Opinion: the alley is more honest than a museum would be — Taketsuru’s story started here, not in Scotland, and the sake is still the point. Discussion: when a whisky legend’s birthplace is a sake brewery, does that make the sake more interesting or the whisky story more complicated?

#slowtraveling Sangubashi is the small Odakyu Line stop (~10 min from Shinjuku, ~160 yen IC) whose north exit spills onto the west edge of Yoyogi Park—the gate tourists miss because they enter from Harajuku’s Meiji-dori side. I go 7:40 a.m. weekday: cross the footbridge over the railroad cut, enter the park’s unmarked west dirt path, and walk the 15-minute diagonal to the baseball field where the morning taiko drummer practices, then loop to the forest bath (shinrin-yoku) grove the Meiji shrine side hides. The west gate path is gravel, then packed earth, then boardwalk—no vending until the central plaza. A 130-yen konbini coffee (IC, bought at Sangubashi’s Lawsons before entering) drunk on the bridge watching the Odakyu train slide under the park. Free entry, 24h park (Meiji Shrine inner closes 16:30—but the park itself never locks). IC train, IC konbini. Etiquette: the west path is where runners and dog-walkers seed—stay right, no speaker, no drone (ward ban), bow at the Meiji shrine outer torii if you cross into shrine grounds (two bows two claps one bow). Mistake: 11 a.m. weekend—the central plaza a picnic war, the west path still quiet but the bridge photo-queued. 7:40 weekday, mist in the cedars, is Yoyogi’s own breath before Harajuku wakes. Question: when a park has a west gate no tourist uses, does the quiet belong to the neighborhood or to the people who get lost right?

A must-visit during your trip to Furano or Sapporo: The Yoichi Nikka Whisky Distillery 🥃‼️ 🥃 Yoichi Nikka Whisky 🔺 Free guided tours are practically reservation-only! You can book up to 4 weeks in advance for groups of 1 to 9 people. 🔺 Didn't get a reservation? You can still go! The Nikka Museum, restaurant, and distillery shop are all open to walk-ins. 🔺 Tasting is the best part! Guided tour participants get to enjoy up to 3 different whiskies (one free glass of each)! 🔺 Driving? No tasting for you. Drivers and cyclists are strictly prohibited from consuming alcohol! 🔺 Don't skip the gift shop! They sell distillery-exclusive whiskies and merch. Just keep in mind that limited-edition items have unpredictable stock and might sell out the day you visit. 🔺 Photos are OK, but video/audio recordings are a NO. Feel free to snap pictures during the tour, but recording videos or audio is strictly forbidden. 🔺 Tours are in Japanese only. But don't worry if you don't speak the language—the facility is gorgeous and packed with things to see, so doing a self-guided walk-through is perfectly fine. 🔺 Yoichi's traditional direct coal-fired pot stills are a major highlight. This unique distillation method is exactly what gives their whisky its rich, robust flavor profile. 🔺 Don't show up too late! The entire facility closes at 16:15, so aim to arrive around 15:00 at the latest to give yourself plenty of time. 🔺 Pro tip: hit the gift shop first instead of saving it for last! Limited-edition whiskies can sell out quickly due to production and restocking schedules. Also, they don't give stock updates over the phone. 🔺 Snap a pic at the main entrance! The iconic stone archway is the ultimate photo op at the Yoichi Distillery‼️ My personal recommended route: 👉 Main Gate → Distillery Facility → Former Taketsuru Residence → Warehouse No. 1 → Tasting Room → Nikka Museum → Gift Shop If you're a true whisky lover, be sure to check out the paid tasting bar rather than just the shop. No reservations needed! Travel Travel Recommendations

Tokyo Travel | Suica is super convenient to put in your iPhone! Take JR from Ikebukuro to Meiji Jingu Shrine + Shibuya Tokyo officially started free travel the next day! 🇯🇵 This time I stayed at the Sunshine City Prince Hotel in Ikebukuro, and before I left, I used AI to help plan my transportation routes, including which line to take, which station to get off, and even which exit I should take to get to a major station. Transportation in Tokyo isn’t actually difficult, but the stations can be really big and the route would be much easier to know in advance. Another thing that is super convenient this time is to add the Suica watermelon card to your iPhone Apple Wallet📱🚆 Taking JR or other Suica-enabled transportation, basically take your phone out and take a swipe to enter the gate, no need to research which ticket to buy each way, which is really much more convenient for free travel. This stop went to Meiji Jingu Shrine. Walking in from the lively streets of Tokyo, the environment suddenly becomes very quiet, lined with big trees, and it doesn’t feel like you are in downtown Tokyo at all. We also entered the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden. Admission ¥500, however it was winter when we went, basically no flowers to see😂 If it was the flower season, the view should be completely different. Then go to Shibuya Scramble Crossing at Shibuya Crossing. I thought we would definitely see the kind of "crowded" scene in the movie, but there weren't many people when we went! 😆 However, the first time I stood on the streets of Shibuya and watched people from all directions cross the road together, it was still quite Tokyo-like. My biggest feeling during this Tokyo free trip is: 📱 Put Suica in Apple Wallet, it's much easier to travel by car 🗺️ Use AI to plan your route before departure, less pressure to find your way 🚉 Tokyo Grand Station is best to check even the "exit" in advance 🌳 Meiji Jingu Shrine is suitable for those who want to slow down on their busy Tokyo itinerary You don’t have to visit 10 attractions a day to travel independently. Walking less and watching slowly makes you feel much more comfortable. #TokyoTravel #Meiji Jingu #Shibuya #Shibuya #Suica #WatermelonCard #TokyoTransportation #JapanTravel #TokyoTravel #MeijiJingu

In the snow-covered landscape of Yoichi, the aroma of Nikka sake has wafted through a century. Amber-colored stories flow from the copper stills, while the oak barrels hold the crispness and gentleness of Hokkaido. A glass of Yoichi sake encapsulates the refreshing essence of the snow country and the rich flavor of time within its small space. 🌨

Can you believe it?! In Ginza 1-chome, Tokyo, where land is incredibly expensive, you can actually live in a 115-square-meter room! There's also a huge private garden with lush greenery 🪴. Each room has a private onsen bath ♨️ with hot spring water delivered daily from Rehai. Although located in the bustling city, it feels like a tranquil escape from the noise. A Japanese-style mansion, a secluded haven in the city, a high-rise onsen hotel with an urban feel ☁️ Hotel enthusiasts have definitely heard of FuFu, a high-end Japanese hotel brand. FuFu Japan has received Michelin stars for two consecutive years. FUFU Tokyo Ginza is the 9th hotel, opened last November. It only has 34 rooms. Check-in is on the 12th floor. The entire space is warm and elegant, with exquisite details. There are butlers who speak Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and English to cater to guests' needs during their stay. A staff member told me that the wall tiles and artwork at the hotel entrance are sourced from local Ginza soil. A particularly special feature is the Yusora lounge on the 13th floor 🍃, which also has an onsen foot bath ♨️ with complimentary drinks from 4 pm to 8 pm. Sipping champagne 🍾️ while soaking your feet 🦶 and enjoying the Ginza night view is simply amazing!! For those who get cold easily, there are hand warmers and coats available. 🛏️Guest Room We booked the Luxury Corner Suite on the 8th floor. The room is named "Komamiya," after the plant in the room. We knew the room would be nice, but it truly amazed me!! It's like a zaibatsu apartment straight out of a Japanese drama. Outside the window are moss, stone paths, and tree shadows. The framed view by the snow-viewing shoji screen interacts with the soft light and shadows. The living space is huge, and the afternoon sunlight streaming in is incredibly soothing. It's like experiencing a Japanese "secluded mansion" staycation in no time. ♨️Onsen (Hot Spring) The entire bathroom area is very spacious, and the hot spring water circulates 24 hours a day. I soaked in it three or four times that day and didn't want to leave the room at all! The amenities are Fufu's own brand 👇 Makeup remover, facial cleanser, and toner/lotion are all provided, so you can just bring your bags and move in. 🍴 Restaurants The hotel has two restaurants. The basement has a sushi platter, Sushi Ginga 🍣. We booked Ginza Gayu (GAYU) on the 12th floor. Chef Haruhiko Hoshino specializes in kaiseki cuisine. It was my first time trying pufferfish skin jelly, and it was so bouncy! The pine-smoked Wagyu beef was incredibly fragrant! We started with salmon and finished with a BDM (Baidu, Japan) menu. I highly recommend the Yoichi Chardonnay from Hokkaido 🥂 · The restaurant is currently only open to Fufu guests. 🍱 Breakfast The Japanese take breakfast seriously! I didn't expect to be able to eat eel in the morning ✨ Ginza Shopping and Dining · Subway station downstairs from the hotel 🚇 · Walking distance to 👉 Mitsukoshi Department Store, Matsuya Ginza, Ginza Six

Traveling to Hokkaido and want to hit all the scenic spots, sip fine whisky, and feast on premium sea urchin in just one day, but dread the headache of navigating JR trains and bus transfers? 🤯 I booked this "Sapporo-Yoichi-Shakotan-Otaru" day tour on Trip.com, and I seriously have to recommend it to everyone! With private transport the whole way, the itinerary was super smooth, and it's an absolute bang for your buck! 💯 🚌 📍 Flexible Pick-up in Downtown Sapporo (Super Thoughtful!) The best part of this tour is the variety of pick-up locations you can choose from in downtown Sapporo! We chose to hop on at the TV Tower. It was so nice to just comfortably board the bus first thing in the morning without wandering the streets in the freezing wind or scorching sun. It's completely hassle-free, especially for first-time travelers or those bringing their families! 🥃 📍 1st Stop: Yoichi Distillery (A Pilgrimage for Whisky Lovers) The moment you step off the bus, you're hit with that intoxicating aroma of oak barrels and whisky~ The guide gave us plenty of time to wander around the museum and learn about the coal-fired distillation process. Although free tastings have been paused since COVID, paying for a tasting glass is still super cheap. The souvenir shop even features exclusive whiskies and limited-edition sake lees snacks. Whisky lovers, you definitely need to stock up here! 🛍️ 🌊 📍 2nd Stop: Shakotan Peninsula (The Breathtaking "Shakotan Blue" & Ultra-Fresh Sea Urchin) Here comes the main event! We headed to the Shakotan Peninsula, home to Hokkaido's most stunning coastline. On a clear day, the ocean literally glows with a color known as "Shakotan Blue." You don't even need a filter for your photos—it's drop-dead gorgeous! 📸 When booking, remember to upgrade your lunch to the sea urchin option. The restaurant partnered with the tour serves daily-caught sea urchin that is out of this world. Then it was time for the highly anticipated sea urchin rice bowl🍣! Shakotan sea urchin truly lives up to the hype—it melts in your mouth, is incredibly sweet, and has absolutely zero fishy taste. You'll be dreaming about it long after you finish. This meal alone makes the tour fee totally worth it! 🤤 🕯️ 📍 3rd Stop: Otaru Canal (A Romantic Fairytale Town) With our bellies full, we headed to Otaru, a town brimming with European charm. Strolling along the Otaru Canal, the red brick warehouses and retro gas lamps create such a romantic vibe. You can also wander down Sakaimachi Street, check out the Music Box Museum and Kitaichi Glass, and pick up some exquisite souvenirs. If you're feeling a bit peckish, grab a slice of LeTAO's famous Double Fromage cheesecake for afternoon tea! 🍰 🏙️ 📍 Return: Heading Back to Sapporo After a full day of fun, you can catch a sweet nap on the bus and wake up comfortably back in downtown Sapporo. The perfect ending! 💡 [Pro Tips / Post-Trip Thoughts] 1️⃣ Sea Urchin Season: Shakotan sea urchin is best and sweetest during the summer (June-August). Keep the season in mind before planning your trip. 2️⃣ What to Wear: Hokkaido has huge temperature drops between morning and night, and the sea breeze on the Shakotan Peninsula can be strong. Don't forget to pack a windbreaker or a light jacket! 3️⃣ Booking Advice: This Trip.com tour covers both transportation and the epic sea urchin meal, making it an incredible value. It saves you the hassle of figuring out complex transit routes. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to skip the driving! If you want to experience the absolute best of Hokkaido in a single day, this tour is hands-down your top choice! Bookmark this post now and book it for your next Hokkaido getaway! 👇💖 Distillery

✨ Get ready for an epic Hokkaido road trip packed with ocean views, stunning unmanned railway stations, hot springs, seasonal flower fields, and romantic canals! We'll start by picking up a rental car at New Chitose Airport, cruising west along the Pacific coast, then heading north past Lake Toya and Mt. Yotei, and wrapping up in Otaru. It's an in-depth loop road trip of about 290–300 kilometers. 🔶 I've specially drawn up a route map with a brief intro 📌 and driving times are also marked ⭐️ to make things super clear. Plus, this route has it all—Hokkaido's beauty, comfort, natural wonders, and even some shopping 🛍️! 📅 Recommended Duration: 3 Days 2 Nights or 4 Days 3 Nights 3 Days 2 Nights (The Highlights Express): Day 1: Depart from New Chitose Airport ➔ Muroran (Hakucho Bridge) ➔ Kogane Station ➔ Overnight: Toyako Manseikaku Hotel (Hot springs & fireworks) Day 2: Silo Observatory / Lake Hill Farm ➔ Mishima-san's Shibazakura Garden ➔ Otaru Canal & Sakaimachi Street ➔ Overnight: Otaru or Sapporo Day 3: Souvenir shopping in Sapporo/Otaru downtown ➔ Return car at New Chitose Airport 🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆🔆 4 Days 3 Nights (The Chill & Slow Pace): Day 1: Depart from Airport ➔ Lake Shikotsu ➔ Muroran ➔ Overnight: Lake Toya Day 2: Around Lake Toya (Observatory/Farm/Showa Shinzan) ➔ Overnight: Niseko or Kutchan Day 3: Kutchan (Shibazakura) ➔ Yoichi ➔ Overnight: Otaru Day 4: Stroll around Otaru Sakaimachi Street ➔ Return to New Chitose Airport 📍 Attractions Checklist, Opening Hours & Details 1. Start/End: New Chitose Airport (新千歳空港) Intro: The gateway to Hokkaido, where you pick up and drop off your rental car. The airport boasts an amazing array of souvenir shops and food courts. Hours: Terminal opens approx. 05:00 - 23:00 (Domestic/International shops mostly open 08:00 - 20:00; car rental counters usually until 19:00 - 20:00). Address: 987-22 Bibi, Chitose, Hokkaido 2. Michi-no-Eki Mitara Muroran (Muroran Port Rest Area / Hakucho Bridge) Intro: Located by Muroran Port, offering up-close views of "Hakucho Bridge", eastern Japan's largest suspension bridge. The industrial night view at dusk is absolutely breathtaking. Hours: Summer (Apr - Oct): 09:30 - 21:00 Winter (Nov - Mar): 09:30 - 17:00 (Closed Thursdays in winter) Address: 4-16-15 Shukuzucho, Muroran, Hokkaido 3. Kogane Station (Seaside Unmanned Station) Intro: Located along the coast of Date City, this unmanned seaside station gives off major Japanese indie movie vibes with its serene beauty. The platform faces right out to the ocean. Hours: Outdoor station, open 24/7 (Daytime visits recommended for the best photo lighting). Address: 5-6 Minamikoganecho, Date, Hokkaido 4. Toyako Manseikaku Hotel Lakeside Terrace (洞爺湖万世閣ホテル レイクサイドテラス) Intro: A classic hotel in the Lake Toya hot spring area. It features a rooftop open-air bath, "Hoshi-no-Yu", with stunning lake views. In summer, you can enjoy the night fireworks from your room or right by the lake. Hours: Check-in 15:00 / Check-out 10:00; For day-trip hot spring hours, please check the hotel's on-site notice (usually 13:00 - 20:00). Address: 21 Toyakoonsen, Toyako, Abuta District, Hokkaido 5. Lake Hill Farm & Silo Observatory (レークヒル・ファーム & サイロ展望台) Intro: These two spots are just a 5-minute drive apart. The observatory offers a panoramic bird's-eye view of Lake Toya, while the farm features vast meadows and incredibly delicious handmade gelato. Hours: Silo Observatory: 08:30 - 18:00 (Until 17:00 in winter) Lake Hill Farm: 09:00 - 18:00 (Until 17:00 in winter) Address (Silo Observatory): 3-5 Naruka, Toyako, Abuta District, Hokkaido Address (Lake Hill Farm): 127 Hanawa, Toyako, Abuta District, Hokkaido 6. Mishima-san's Shibazakura Garden (三島さんの芝桜庭園) Intro: A private garden in Kutchan open to the public for free. From late May to early June, the whole hill is carpeted in pink moss phlox (shibazakura), with awesome distant views of Hokkaido's Mt. Yotei. Hours: Open for free roaming (As this is private residential property, please avoid making noise or causing disturbances in the early morning or at night). Address: 51 Asahi, Kutchan, Abuta District, Hokkaido 7. Otaru Canal & Sakaimachi Street (小樽運河 & 堺町通商店街) Intro: Hokkaido's most romantic port city. Stroll past stone warehouses and vintage gas lamps, and head to Sakaimachi Street to shop for glassware crafts and treat yourself to desserts from famous shops like LeTAO and Rokkatei. Hours: Otaru Canal (Scenic Walkway): Open 24/7 (Canal gas lamps lit until 24:00) Sakaimachi Street: Most shops open 09:00 - 18:00 (Restaurants/bars stay open later) Address: 5 Minatomachi, Otaru, Hokkaido (Otaru Canal)

Seven years since my last visit to Hokkaido 🐻 Time marches on, people and things change. Seeing familiar buildings awakens memories. I found a Sapporo ramen place with a long queue, Yamaoka-ya, where many people could easily eat a bowl of ramen and a bowl of rice. 🐻 Humanmade in Sapporo is too small; there's not much to buy. The former Hokkaido Government Building, the clock tower, the Sapporo TV Tower—everything remains unchanged. 🏙️ NIKKA lights up "First Love" x NIKKA 🍬 Susukino Crossroads Susukino Building

Nitori Sightseeing Orchard This famous fruit farm in Yoichi, Hokkaido, offers the opportunity to stroll through the orchards and pick fresh, seasonal fruits directly from the trees. In particular, they offer sweet, crisp, juicy cherries that are freshly picked. They also have strawberries, grapes, apples, pears, and other seasonal fruits. The spacious orchard is comfortable to walk through, with a shady and pleasant atmosphere, perfect for both photography enthusiasts and fruit lovers. It's a must-see landmark when visiting Hokkaido during the summer. #NitoriSightseeingOrchard #NitoriOrchard #Yoichi #Hokkaido #CherryPicking #CherryFarm #FruitPicking #JapanTravel #เที่ยวญี่ปุ่น #ฮอกไกโด #สวนเชอร์รี่ #เก็บเชอร์รี่ #ผลไม้ญี่ปุ่น #นักรบตะวันออก

also made everyone feel very comfortable. Today, we visited the coastline of the Sea of Japan, including Cape Kamui, Shimamui, Yoichi Distillery, and Otaru, a total of 4 attractions. We had ample time at each spot to slowly enjoy the scenery. This itinerary might be more user-friendly than those of other travel agencies. I originally wanted to book an official day trip with Japan Chuo Bus because I heard on a certain platform that their tours allowed plenty of time for sightseeing. However, considering the language barrier, I found a similar route on Trip.com that also provided sufficient time, and communication in Chinese was much easier. This allowed me, someone who likes to take my time, to keep up with the group's pace. I apologize that I was late and made everyone wait for 5 minutes. Near the end of our first stop at Cape Kamui, I went to buy ice cream. It was my first time using a vending machine, and the coins didn't register (I pressed the buttons in the wrong order, which delayed the ticket printing). After the ticket came out, the staff making the ice cream happened to step away temporarily. Before I knew it, it was time to gather. Rourou specifically explained the situation to the driver, who was Japanese and very kind. At each stop, he diligently took out paper and a pen to record the time. Later, my phone was running out of battery, so Rourou asked the driver to help me charge it in the car using his equipment. Thank you! There's one more thing I'm most grateful for: the room I booked was self-check-in, with no reception staff, and required a password to enter. I usually travel with two phones, but I accidentally left the phone with the password in my room. When I realized my mistake, I was anxious the whole way. What would I do if I couldn't get into my room when I returned in the evening? There was nothing I could do, as the itinerary ended in the evening. Rourou was also in a hurry to get off work and go home, but after hearing about my situation, she immediately looked up the hotel's contact information online, called the staff, found out the room password, and told it to me. This truly solved a huge problem for me! Your company must commend Rourou! I also recommend everyone to book this tour route; just look at my photos to see how beautiful the scenery is! This Tiffany blue sea is called "Shakotan Blue" here, and you definitely shouldn't miss it when you come to Hokkaido! Also, Otaru is very charming and worth a visit.