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August 3, 2020

Sendai, Japan: Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery Tour; things to do

Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery Tour 

+81 0 22-395-2865.  Daily 9am-4:30pm.  Free.  Reservations suggested.

tour at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan
tour at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan


Built in 1969, this is Nikka Whisky’s second distillery. Masataka Taketsuru, who learned whisky-making in Scotland, started the company and makes what has been called the father of whiskey--Nikka Whisky. The Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo distillery is located in a foggy glen surrounded by mountains and is adjacent to two rivers, including its famous source of pristine water, the Nikkawa River. Both malt and grain whisky are produced here. An educational tour of the refinery includes strolling the lovely grounds and viewing a scenic pond with swans. As an overview of production is presented, tour groups enter several buildings, including the kiln tower, mash house, and still house. 





still at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan
still at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan



The hour-long tour concludes with a tasting, where whisky descriptions vary from “fruity and rich” for the Single malt Miyagikyo to “woody and mellow” for the Coffey Grain. I liked them all. The tour is conducted in Japanese, but audio guides in English, Chinese, and Korean are available.

tasting at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan
tasting at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan


tasting at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan
tasting at Nikka Whisky Miyagikyo Distillery in Sendai, Japan



More things to do in Japan.

More ideas for exploring Asia and the South Pacific.


images and video ©2020 Carole Terwilliger Meyers

7 comments:

  1. I don't even drink whisky but I've done two distillery tours in Scotland and the whole process is fascinating. How did Nikka whisky compare to other ones you've had, i.e. Scottish, American or Irish whiskeys?

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    1. I've also experienced whisky tasting and tours in Scotland and the U.S. as well as Taiwan. They were similar. All were enjoyable and educational.

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  2. That looks like a fun tour in the landscape and into the distillery - how unique and cool.

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  3. We love taking distillery tours and find each unique. You must have had a fantastic visit at the Nikka Whiskey stop. It certainly looks enjoyable.

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  4. I've been to distilleries in Scotland and Ireland but I've never associated Japan with whisky making! Looks like a great tour.

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  5. I'm not a whiskey drinker, but love distillery and wine tours. This one looks really fun and I'd definitely give it a try.

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  6. I like the various whisky descriptions. Quite fascinating.

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