Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery, Yoichi-cho

A nice visit for those who enjoy whiskey. A lot of the buildings were closed due to snow/winter but we still got a good view of the grounds. If you don’t speak Japanese, stay at the front of the tour as the guide will have a sheet explaining what is being said in English. The tour guide and staff were very kind and generous, squeezing me into a last minute tour. Make sure you try the samples, I’d recommended the Apple wine or Highballs.

Really cool (and free!) tour and tasting experience. You have to make a reservation either online (Japanese site only) or by phone call. The reservations seem to fill up fast on weekends so book early if you're visiting on a weekend. At the end of the tour, you get to taste three different Nikka whiskies. You're provided with freshly cut clear ice cubes, room temperature water, and carbonated water to mix up your drink however you want. To get to Yoichi from Otaru, you have to take the JR rail or bus, which only come at limited times. The distillery is a short walk from the station.