Overview
Nikka Whisky, one of Japan's top whisky makers, has its main distillery in Yoichi (余市蒸溜所, Yoichi Jōryūsho), the neighboring town of Otaru. The company was founded by Taketsuru Masataka, known as the father of Japanese whisky, who studied whisky making techniques for several years in Scotland before bringing the trade to Japan. He was instrumental in establishing the country's first whisky distillery, the Yamazaki Distillery near Kyoto, before he set out on his own to start Nikka Whisky here in Hokkaido. After touring the grounds, you can sample the signature whiskey for free.
Take the JR Hakodane Line from Sapporo station to Yoichi station, via Otaru. The jouney takes 1hour 15minutes and its covered by the Japan rail pass. The distillery is a short walk from the station.