When people think of “Japanese whisky,” names like Yamazaki, Hibiki, and Hakushu often come to mind. Unfortunately, these bottles are now extremely difficult to find even within Japan. With soaring global demand, stock is scarce, and on the rare occasions they appear in convenience stores or liquor shops, you’ll need to line up before opening to have a chance at buying one. Even then, regular retail prices are usually limited to lottery sales, while most bottles in circulation are sold at several times their list price—or in the case of aged editions, even dozens of times more. This has become a major obstacle not only for international visitors but also for Japanese buyers.

That said, don’t be discouraged. Japan still offers an impressive variety of highly regarded Scotch whiskies and reasonably priced Japanese whiskies that deliver excellent value. In the following section, we’ll introduce recommended options by price range that are both attainable and satisfying.

So, where’s the most efficient place to shop for such a wide variety of whiskies? BicCamera, with locations all across Japan, is highly recommended. Far from being just an electronics retailer, it also offers an impressive lineup of whiskies at competitive prices.

On top of the 10% tax-free discount available to international travelers, you can use a special LIVE JAPAN coupon for an extra 3% off the listed price of alcohol. Simply show this screen at checkout! Combine duty-free savings with the coupon to score an even better deal on whisky.

(Note: Some brands are excluded from the coupon discount, including Miyagikyo.)

One of the joys of traveling in Japan is discovering a wide variety of whiskies at reasonable prices. BicCamera’s liquor specialists have curated a list of whiskies by price range, carefully selected to match the preferences of international travelers.

True to its name, meaning “light of the forest,” this whisky is bright and approachable. With the sweetness of ripe fruit, delicate floral notes, and a smooth finish, it’s an excellent choice for beginners. It also makes a refreshing highball.

A bold whisky that evokes the wild sea, Talisker 10 combines salty maritime notes with peppery spice and powerful peat smoke. Considered one of the three classic “peat whisky” introductions, it’s famous for its addictive charm once you acquire the taste.

Known as the “king of Islay whiskies,” Ardbeg 10 is renowned for its intense, smoky peat character—so distinctive it’s often compared to hospital disinfectant. Yet behind that powerful punch lies a surprising sweetness and refreshing citrus finish, earning it a passionate global following.

A cornerstone of the brand that pioneered single malt whisky for the masses, Glenfiddich 15 is matured in sherry, bourbon, and new oak casks, then uniquely married using the Solera System. The result is a complex blend of honey, raisins, and cinnamon, with a smooth, well-balanced elegance—making it an ideal gift.

A premium expression from The Glenlivet, often hailed as the benchmark of Speyside whiskies. Layers of ripe orange, warming spices, and lush fruit come together in perfect harmony, leaving a long, silky finish. It’s an exceptional choice to celebrate life’s most important occasions.

A long-aged expression from Glenmorangie, best known for its “Original 10 Year.” Matured for 15 years in American white oak casks before part of it is transferred to Oloroso sherry casks for an additional 3 years, it develops extra depth and complexity. The result is a creamy texture with rich flavors of dried fruit and nuts that unfold beautifully on the palate.

Since its release in 1950, this iconic whisky has been a cornerstone of Japan’s whisky culture. With sherry cask–inspired sweetness, a rich aroma, and a smooth, full-bodied taste, it can be enjoyed in many ways—from on the rocks to mizuwari (with water).

Praised as the crowning achievement of Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii, this premium whisky offers a refined harmony of sweet, floral aromas and a smooth, layered depth of flavor. It’s a timeless choice, perfect for toasting on special occasions.

Founded by Masataka Taketsuru, the pioneer of Nikka Whisky, Miyagikyo Distillery was chosen to create malts with a distinct character. Known for its floral, fruity aroma and smooth texture, it’s an excellent introduction to Japanese single malts.

Crafted with exceptional skill at Kirin’s globally acclaimed Fuji Gotemba Distillery, this single malt delivers aromas of pear and apple with a silky-smooth texture. It’s a refined whisky that beautifully captures the spirit of Mt. Fuji.

The pinnacle of Johnnie Walker’s blending expertise, Blue Label is crafted using only the rarest casks—said to be just one in every 10,000. Its velvety texture reveals layers of honey, fruit, and subtle smokiness, creating extraordinary depth and complexity. There’s hardly a better choice for a truly special gift.

A masterpiece made from exceptionally rare malt and grain whiskies, each aged for at least 30 years. It offers a richness and smoothness that only time can create, with a deep, refined flavor admired by whisky enthusiasts worldwide. For many, it represents the ultimate expression of blended Scotch.

Buying whisky at BicCamera during your trip to Japan is one of the smartest ways to shop. Don’t miss the chance to show your special LIVE JAPAN coupon at checkout for extra savings, and make your whisky shopping even more rewarding!