Inside Shochu Distillery and Tasting with a Local Expert

Join John, a certified shochu and sake specialist and former distillery worker, for an insider’s look into Amami’s regionally exclusive spirit: kokuto shochu. This hands-on tour takes you behind the scenes to see how this rare sugarcane-based liquor is crafted—from fermentation to distillation—while learning about its cultural significance on Amami. You’ll visit working production areas and explore the unique techniques used only in the Amami Islands. Because of John’s long-standing connections and industry experience, you’ll gain access to areas and insights not normally available to the public. The tour finishes with a guided tasting of some of the island’s best kokuto shochu, making this an experience that is both educational and genuinely authentic. Perfect for travelers interested in Japanese spirits, craftsmanship, or local culture.

In addition to the core distillery experience, this tour will include at least one additional stop, thoughtfully chosen based on the season and conditions on the day. This may include a visit to a kokuto sugar production house during the sugar-making season, scenic sugarcane fields, culturally meaningful island locations, a local liquor shop for those interested in purchasing bottles, or, when time allows, an additional distillery for comparison. If you’d like to know what may be possible during your travel dates, feel free to contact us in advance and we’ll be happy to advise. Please note: Some elements of the additional stops are seasonal and may depend on operational conditions. The core experience always includes a distillery visit, cultural insights, and a guided tasting, while additional stops are included when appropriate to ensure the best experience on the day. Tour duration may extend slightly depending on conditions and seasonal opportunities.