It may come as a surprise, but a Japanese single malt has made its way onto the list of the world’s best whiskeys. While this might raise some eyebrows, whiskey aficionados would argue that it was only a matter of time. Japanese whiskey first gained international recognition in 2015 when the Yamazaki Single Malt Sherry Cask 2013 was crowned the best whiskey in the world by Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible.
Whiskey is deeply ingrained in Japan’s culture, and the country boasts an impressive array of whiskey bars that rival the best in the world. Japan has a unique ability to take foreign influences—whether in food, fashion, or drink—and not only replicate them but elevate them to new heights. This knack for refinement and attention to detail allows Japan to perfect trends, and its whiskey bars are a prime example of this dedication to mastery. It’s no wonder they’re considered some of the best in the world.
The origins of Japanese whiskey are just as intriguing as its rise to prominence. In the 1920s, Masataka Taketsuru, after studying at the University of Glasgow, returned to Japan and established the country’s first whiskey distillery, inspired by the Scottish tradition of whiskey-making. However, his initial attempt was met with failure, as the local palate didn’t embrace the Scottish style. Undeterred, Taketsuru refined his approach, crafting a smoother, more delicate flavor that resonated with Japanese tastes. This marked the birth of Japanese whiskey, and nearly a century later, it has become a dominant force on the global whiskey scene.
Another reason why Japan does whiskey bars better than the rest is because the Japanese pay a great deal of attention to what lies inside the glass. From the size and shape of the ice cubes to the gentle warming of the glass, the precise pouring action of bartenders to their perfect attire, from soft lighting to refreshing piano music, the attention to detail is phenomenal. It is this attention to detail that makes the local whiskey so unique, so savory, so art-like.
In fact, watching barmen in Japan pour a glass of whiskey is an experience in itself. It is as exciting as observing Ikebana flower arrangements or a bonsai masters tending to their miniature creations. It is an experience that simply cannot be recreated elsewhere, for even if you get the details right, you simply cannot duplicate the authenticity on display in Japanese whiskey bars.
The movie Lost in Translation tried to do justice in portraying this splendid concept, but despite watching the movie, you cannot prepare yourself for the mythical world that these Japanese whiskey bars have to offer. If you’re planning to visit Japan in the near future, the following are a few whiskey bars in the country that you simply cannot ignore.
Nikka Blender’s Bar, Tokyo
Located in Nikka’s Ayoma building, Blender’s Bar is incredibly slick. It presents the full line-up of this popular whiskey brand and has always ranked among the best places to have whiskey in the city.
Bar K6, Kyoto
Bar K6 is a popular whiskey drinking spot in Kyoto located next to the Ritz-Carlton. The bar does justice to its glammy neighborhood by offering an exciting selection of single malt whiskeys, craft beers, bar bites and magnificent cocktails.
Bar Highlander, Tokyo
The ‘Scottish Bar’ in Hotel Okura is among the most stylish whiskey drinking spots in the country. It hosts more than 200 varieties of whiskey, including 20 domestic brands, and numerous original blends as well.
Bar Cordon Noir, Kyoto
If there’s time for visiting just one whiskey bar while in the city, Bar Cordon Noir is where you need to be. The low-lit bar offers an intimate feel and fantastic service. There are hundreds of whiskeys found here, and there are some which can’t be seen in the most glamorous bars of the US as well.
Bar Plat, Tokyo
Considered to be one of the hidden gems of Kyoto, Bar Plat offers some of the best selections of whiskey in the city. It caught onto the domestic wave long before its competitors and it is as good a place as any to try out your favorite Japanese malts. We recommend the Ichiro’s Malt.
Suntory Whiskey House, Osaka
This is one of the best places to enjoy several whiskeys while feasting on a savory meal. The place is open for lunch, and drinking a couple of glasses on a vacation does have a ring to it. We’d recommend their tasting board that lets you choose from all Japanese whiskeys or taste a carefully crafted selection from around the world.
Finding your favorite – a Yamazaki, a Nikka or a Hakushu – is hardly a challenge, but finding the perfect whiskey bar often tends to be. We’ve rounded up the finest watering holes in the country, all of which serve domestic malts with the right attitude, transforming the process of serving whiskeys into an art rather than a service. So iron those formals, shine the shoes and head over to the nearest bar in town. This is one experience you won’t forget.
Bookmundi also recommends you to check out the Best Bars Around the World, as voted by Drinks International, an organization that releases an annual list of the best bars in the world. Do Enjoy Responsibly!