Nikka Whisky Sendai Distillery

Established in 1934, Nikka Whisky is Japan's own exclusive whisky brand. Following completion of Yoichi Distillery in Hokkaido, the Miyagikyo Distillery opened in 1969 and started distilling its product. Based on the belief that “Nature makes good whisky,” upheld by the founder Masataka Taketsuru, you'll find the distillery set among the lush natural environment where the Hirosegawa and Nikkawa Rivers meet. The distillery's environs cover an area of about 180,000 square meters and remain almost exactly as they were when the distillery was established.
This distillery offers two different factory tours where you can see how Nikka makes its whisky: the general factory tour with a guide; and the 1.5-hour tour that includes a tasting seminar. The highlights include the pot stills that are heated by indirect steam, which allows the malts to slowly distil (Joryuto), and the warehouse where you'll see barrels and barrels of whisky slowly aging.
Be sure to head over to the tasting corner, where you can savor a glass of whisky or apple wine. The shop in the guest hall sells a range of Nikka's whiskies, such as the “Single Malt Miyagikyo,” a variety that features a touch of sweetness reminiscent of dried fruit.