Hiroshima’s Japanese Distillery Gem for Whisky and Gin Lovers
In the coastal town of Hatsukaichi, Hiroshima—where the calm Seto Inland Sea meets the mountains of western Japan—you’ll find SAKURAO Brewery and Distillery Co., Ltd.. Founded in 1918, this historic company has spent over a century perfecting the art of Japanese alcohol making. In 2017, they launched the SAKURAO DISTILLERY right where it all began, blending tradition with a bold push toward world-class Japanese spirits. Everything here is rooted in Hiroshima—from the locally sourced ingredients to the contrasting aging environments by the sea and in the mountains. The result? One-of-a-kind whiskies and gins that capture the essence of Hiroshima—and have earned high praise from spirit lovers worldwide. Just a short trip from both Miyajima and the Atomic Bomb Dome, it’s an ideal stop between sightseeing. Unlike the usual sake brewery tours, this distillery visit gives you a rare chance to explore the world of Japanese whisky and gin. Looking for a unique, grown-up experience in Hiroshima? This is it.
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Taste Hiroshima—Japanese Whisky and Gin Infused with Nature
Hiroshima’s natural environment—surrounded by both sea and mountains—plays a vital role in shaping the character of its whisky and gin. Along the Seto Inland Sea, salty sea breezes influence the aging process, while the quiet forests of the Chugoku Mountains nurture aromatic spirits. The region is also rich in botanicals like citrus, which are essential for gin production. These one-of-a-kind Japanese craft spirits let you truly experience the essence of Hiroshima’s land and climate.
Two Cellars, Two Characters – Whisky with a Sense of Place
SAKURAO DISTILLERY’s whisky is aged in two very different locations: coastal Sakurao and mountainous Togouchi. The seaside cellar produces a smoky, slightly salty profile thanks to the ocean air and daily temperature swings. Meanwhile, the forested environment of Togouchi nurtures delicate, mellow aromas.
“SAKURAO GIN LIMITED” – Made with 100% Hiroshima Botanicals
If you’re a gin lover, don’t miss SAKURAO GIN LIMITED. Crafted with 17 botanicals—all sourced from Hiroshima—including juniper berry, it carries a delicate floral aroma of cherry blossom. It’s like sipping the very nature of Hiroshima.
Go Behind the Scenes with a Distillery Tour
Want to see how it’s all made? Join a guided distillery tour and get a rare look at how Japanese whisky and gin come to life. You’ll see custom-made stills, traditional British distilling techniques, and the detailed craftsmanship behind each spirit. Tours are available in English too—perfect for international visitors. Don’t forget to stay for the exclusive tasting session at the end, where you can sample limited-edition spirits only available here. Access
| Address | 1-chōme-12-1 Sakurao, Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture |
|---|---|
| Official website | https://www.sakuraodistillery.com/ |
Manners to Follow
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No alcohol for drivers -
Be on time (and let the staff know if you’ll be late) -
Be mindful of your surroundings when taking photos -
Do not enter restricted areas
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