Sapporo Day-Trip Ideas - Japanese Whiskey, Wines & Sake

The Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery is a must-visit spot not only for whisky enthusiasts but also for travelers interested in Japanese culture and history. It offers a rare opportunity to experience the depth of Japanese whisky culture amidst the natural beauty of Yoichi. Founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, known as the father of Japanese whisky making, the distillery allows visitors to learn about the history of whisky production while witnessing the actual distilling process.

During the distillery tour, you'll get a detailed explanation of the entire process, from selecting raw materials to the aging process and bottling. The distillery also houses a museum dedicated to the history and achievements of Masataka Taketsuru, where you can feel his deep passion for Japanese whisky.

Moreover, you'll have the chance to taste the rich flavors of Nikka Whisky and discover your favorite among the varieties, each distinguished by its type and aging period. The rich natural surroundings of the distillery offer a scenic backdrop for whisky tasting, enhancing your visit to Japan.

Official Website: https://www.nikka.com/eng/distilleries/yoichi/tour/
Access from Sapporo:
Train: About 1 hour and 20 minutes from JR Sapporo Station to Yoichi Station on the Hakodate Main Line.
Bus: Express buses run from in front of Sapporo Station, taking about 2 hours to Yoichi.

NIKI Hills Winery is a hidden gem where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Sapporo and enjoy the rich nature and wine culture of Hokkaido. Started in 2014, the winery utilizes abandoned farmland for wine production. Its 33-hectare site includes a winery, vineyards, natural gardens, a restaurant, and lodging facilities. By making wine from local grapes and inheriting a 130-year-old orchard, the winery contributes to agricultural promotion and regional development in Niki Town, aiming to create employment and attract tourists through wine tourism.

The winery tour offers insights into wine production and facilities, and afterward, you can taste various wines while discovering the unique characteristics and stories behind each. The winery also offers a variety of tour options, including cart tours of the grounds and specialized natural garden tours.

The allure of NIKI Hills Winery extends beyond wine. The on-site restaurant serves dishes made with locally harvested fresh ingredients, paired with homemade wines. With hotel accommodations available, you can further explore the region's charms beyond a day trip.

Official Website: https://nikihills.co.jp
Access from Sapporo: About 1 hour and 20 minutes from JR Sapporo Station to Niki Station. It's about a 10-minute taxi ride from Niki Station to the winery (advance taxi booking is recommended).

Kunimare Sake Brewery, founded in 1885, is a traditional brewery with a history spanning about 140 years and is the northernmost sake brewery in Japan. Its sake is brewed with meltwater from the Hakkoda Mountains, known for its low hardness level (18-20 in American degrees), making it softer than the famously soft water of other Japanese regions. The signature soft and crisp taste of Kunimare's sake is the result of low-temperature aging unique to the northernmost location and the local soft water.

With a desire to entertain guests who make the effort to visit the northernmost brewery, Kunimare offers plenty to see. Traditional sake and rice storage buildings catch the eye first. There is also a museum corner showcasing old sake brewing tools and labels. After learning about the brewery's history, visitors can practically experience the brewing process and taste nearly all the brands in the tasting corner. Exclusive sake varieties, such as new releases and local limited editions, add to the appeal. Additionally, a spring water site allows you to take home the smooth water that is key to Kunimare's products.

Official Website: https://www.kunimare-world.jp
Access from Sapporo: Approximately 3 hours by bus from Sapporo Station.