Flip Japan Tour

Bespoke Tokyo Whiskey Tasting Experience

The Japanese whisky industry treats the making of spirits as a slow craft, focusing on the quality of local water and the specific climate of Japan to age the liquid. Unlike some regions that focus on very heavy or smoky flavours, Japanese distillers often aim for a delicate and layered profile. Many of the most famous bottles come from distilleries that use traditional copper stills and barrels made from Mizunara oak, which is difficult to work with, but gives the whiskey a distinct scent of sandalwood and spice.

Many of the most respected Tokyo whisky bars are found in quiet corners of districts like Ginza and Shinjuku. Here, there are places where you can watch the bartender use a sharp knife to cut a block of clear ice into a smooth ball by hand. This keeps the drink cold without watering it down too quickly, which keeps the taste of the whisky strong. 

Tokyo is also a major centre for rare and specialised bottles that are difficult to find anywhere else. Some shops and bars focus entirely on spirits from distilleries that have closed down. The variety of venues ranges from traditional wooden bars that feel like a step back in time to modern rooms with leather chairs and soft music.