My Story

2024. I made it again, to Suntory Hakushu Distillery. YES!!! You read it, AGAIN!!!

It is a lot harder to get a spot now because the paid tour is done through raffle system (unlike old time when reservation is more fuss-free). You will have to submit your details at the given specific dates when they are open for the submission. You may pick a few preferred date/time slots for the paid tour. So take note on it if you are planning to visit to the distillery, information for submission is all available in their website.

The submission is for the lottery pick only and will not guarantee you confirmed seats yet. You will be notified by emails if you get picked. You will then be given a link to complete the later process and payment for the guarantee seats.

Out of many submissions we did for the trip, we only managed to score one slot of 4 seats for this visit. It was indeed another dream come true experience as the some areas in the distillery are newly renovated; while some are kept the same.

Do note that this distillery experience was dated back in March 2024.

For my experience in March 2019, check out YAMANASHI: Suntory Hakushu Distillery

For full itinerary, check out JAPAN TRIP 2024: 11D10N in Yamagata, Sendai, Aizu Wakamatsu & Tokyo

With the JR Wide Area Pass, we boarded on an 8am train (JR limited express “Azusa”) from Shinjuku Station which took us to Kobuchizawa Station. The journey was about 2 hours.

We then boarded the bus at 10am from the Kobuchizawa Station; it took us straight to Suntory Hakushu Distillery/ Suntory Minami Alps Hakushu Water Plant. The journey was around 10 to 15minutes at free of charge, but reservation is a must. For more information, do check it out on their website.

The beautiful renovated reception area at the visitor center. Here, we registered ourselves before entering the Suntory Hakushu Sanctuary.
Continue reading YAMANASHI: Suntory Hakushu Distillery (Winter)