Kyoto 1 Day Suntory Yamazaki Distillery Tour and Asahi Art Museum

Kyoto offers a unique blend of cultural experiences for the discerning traveler. The Suntory Yamazaki Distillery tour and Asahi Art Museum visit combines the art of whisky-making with the beauty of traditional Japanese art. Enjoy the history and craftsmanship of Suntory’s renowned distillery, then discover the serene setting of the Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum. This full-day tour promises a captivating journey through Kyoto’s rich heritage and artistic traditions. Uncover the allure of this remarkable pairing and explore the depth of Japan’s cultural tapestry.

Good To Know

• A full-day tour in Kyoto Prefecture that includes an English-guided Suntory Yamazaki Distillery tour and tasting, as well as a visit to the Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art.
• The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers and departs from JR Yamazaki Station.
• The tour includes an English-speaking assistant, museum admission, and access to the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery shop and museum.
• The tour is not suitable for children, infants, or wheelchair users, and has a minimum age requirement of 20 years old.
• The tour offers a unique combination of industrial heritage and artistic experiences, with the opportunity to explore the distillery’s facilities, taste its signature whiskies, and visit the serene Asahi Art Museum.

Tour Overview

The Kyoto 1 Day Suntory Yamazaki Distillery Tour and Asahi Art Museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the renowned Suntory Yamazaki Whisky Distillery and the charming Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art.

This full-day tour takes place in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, departing from JR Yamazaki Station. During the tour, you will enjoy an English-guided distillery tour, a tasting experience, and access to the museum and shop at the distillery.

They’ll also visit the Asahi Art Museum, situated in a beautiful bungalow on a hill. The tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers and lasts approximately 1 day.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an English-speaking assistant, admission to the Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art, and a distillery tour and tasting experience at the Suntory Yamazaki Whisky Distillery.

Participants will also have access to the museum and shop at the Suntory Yamazaki Whisky Distillery, and receive a gift from KTIC.

However, lunch isn’t included, although 60 minutes of free time is provided.

The tour isn’t suitable for children or infants, and isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Participants must be at least 20 years old, and a minimum of one person is required for the tour to operate.

Accessibility and Participation Requirements

This tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but it’s located near public transportation.

It isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or heart conditions. The minimum age requirement is 20 years old, and the minimum number of participants is 1 person.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes, and it’s recommended to carry earphones for translation during the tour. An app will be provided for English translations during the Japanese tours.

Distillery Tasting Experience

What does the distillery tasting experience entail? The Suntory Yamazaki Whisky Distillery tour offers a unique opportunity to sample their renowned whiskies. Participants can expect to:

The tasting experience is a highlight of the tour, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the world of Suntory whisky.

Asahi Art Museum Visit

Alongside the distillery tour, the Kyoto 1 Day excursion includes a visit to the Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art.

The museum is housed in a beautiful bungalow-style villa nestled on a hill, offering stunning views. Visitors can explore the exquisite art collection, which includes traditional Japanese paintings, ceramics, and sculptures.

The museum provides a serene and peaceful contrast to the industrial setting of the Suntory Yamazaki Distillery.

This unique combination of experiences allows participants to explore both the artistic and industrial heritage of the Kyoto region.

Tour Recommendations

While the Kyoto 1 Day Distillery Tour and Art Museum offers a unique blend of experiences, there are several recommendations to keep in mind for a successful trip.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes to navigate the distillery and museum grounds. An app with English translations is provided, but bringing earphones can enhance the experience.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems or heart conditions, and the minimum age is 20 years old.

Reviewers highlight the fluent communication and coordination, as well as the opportunity to enjoy the Asahi Museum’s beautiful bungalow setting.

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Bring earphones for translations
• Not suitable for back/heart conditions
• Minimum age of 20 years old
• Enjoy the Asahi Museum’s bungalow setting

Review Highlights

The tours have received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with highlights emphasizing the fluent communication and coordination. Reviewers praised the tour assistant’s ability to guide them through the experience seamlessly.

The distillery tour was considered a unique opportunity for travelers, offering an inside look at the renowned Suntory Yamazaki Whisky production.

While the Asahi Museum was described as a beautiful bungalow on a hill, unrelated to Asahi Beer, visitors appreciated the chance to explore the art collection.

Getting to the Meeting Point

To reach the meeting point at JR Yamazaki Station, travelers can take the JR Tokaido Line from Kyoto Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

Upon arrival, look for the:

• Distinctive signage for JR Yamazaki Station
• English-speaking assistant holding a sign for the tour group
• Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, located a short walk from the station
• Nearby parking lot for those driving to the meeting point
• Clear directions provided in the tour confirmation email

Getting to the starting point is straightforward, ensuring a punctual and smooth start to the Kyoto tour experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Pictures During the Distillery Tour?

Photos are generally allowed during the distillery tour, but visitors should check with the staff for any specific restrictions. It’s best to be respectful and avoid disrupting the tour experience for others.

Is There Any Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, casual attire is recommended. Avoid wearing very formal or revealing clothing. The tour involves walking, so opt for comfortable shoes. Just dress appropriately for a relaxed, yet respectful, experience at the distillery.

Can I Purchase Bottles of Suntory Whisky at the End?

Yes, participants can purchase bottles of Suntory whisky at the end of the distillery tour. The tour includes access to the distillery shop, allowing visitors to buy souvenirs and bottles of the renowned Japanese whisky.

Are There Any Food Options Available at the Museum?

The tour details don’t mention any food options being available at the Asahi Art Museum. However, the tour provides 60 minutes of free time during which you could explore the museum’s surroundings and potentially find some dining options nearby.

What Languages Are the Tour Guides Fluent In?

The tour guides are fluent in English, allowing them to provide clear and informative commentary to English-speaking travelers. They also possess excellent Japanese communication skills to ensure a seamless experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Kyoto by exploring the renowned Suntory Yamazaki Distillery and the captivating Asahi Art Museum. This tour offers a unique blend of whisky tasting and traditional Japanese art, creating an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast or an art lover, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on your Kyoto adventure.