Kirin is one of Japan’s most respected beverage companies, with roots dating back to 1869. Its journey into whisky began later, with the establishment of the Fuji Gotemba Distillery at the foot of Mt. Fuji. A site chosen for its cool, humid climate and exceptionally pure water, similar to that of Scotland.

Founded in collaboration with international whisky experts, the distillery was built to craft a style of whisky that would suit Japanese palates: smooth, approachable, and elegant. The Gotemba location, at 620 meters above sea level, provides ideal conditions for slow maturation, and the snowmelt from Mt. Fuji filters naturally through volcanic rock, creating mineral-rich water that forms the base of Kirin’s whiskies.

The distillery combines Scottish, American, and Canadian distillation techniques—a rare fusion that allows it to produce a wide range of whisky styles from grain to malt under one roof. Its state-of-the-art column stills, pot stills, and continuous stills are operated with meticulous attention to detail.

Whisky is matured in Kentucky white oak barrels, carefully charred to extract vanillin, lactones, and other natural compounds that contribute to Kirin’s signature flavors: gentle sweetness, floral notes, and a smooth, clean finish. All aging is done in a dedicated 10-story warehouse designed to minimize external influence and ensure consistency.

Today, Kirin’s whiskies are gaining global attention for their quality. From their pure mountain water to their blending expertise, Kirin represents a unique intersection of tradition, innovation, and terroir—making the Fuji Gotemba Distillery one of Japan’s most distinctive whisky producers.