[From Otaru to Yoichi] Recommended transportation and Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery🥃

While the JR line takes you from Otaru to Yoichi in about 35 minutes, traveling by bus is actually more convenient and comfortable. 🚍✨

Local buses depart and arrive at Otaru Bus Terminal approximately every 30 minutes, making them a convenient way to get around. However, we especially recommend the "Express Bus to Iwanai."

With fewer stops, the bus runs smoothly and arrives in Yoichi in about 40 minutes. The seats are spacious and comfortable, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery while enjoying the sightseeing. 🌊

The Otaru Bus Terminal, located right next to Otaru Station, offers excellent access, tourist information, coin lockers, and restrooms.
This is the perfect place to get ready before your trip. 🎒
What's more, buses within Otaru City accept contactless payment with IC cards and credit cards, making it incredibly convenient. 💳
However, JR Yoichi Station does not accept contactless payment, so if you're traveling by train to Yoichi Station, you'll need to purchase a ticket.

The one-way fare for adults on the Hokkaido Chuo Bus route from Otaru Station (near Otaru Bus Terminal) to Yoichi Station is ¥560.
Fares may vary slightly depending on the bus route and time of day, so please check the latest fare before boarding. 😊

Once you arrive in Yoichi, a must-see is the Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery. 🥃
Just a short walk from Yoichi Station, the vast grounds—the size of three Tokyo Domes—are dotted with buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties, including the drying and distilling buildings and Rita House.
The beautiful brick buildings, seemingly frozen in time, are filled with the deep, sweet aroma of whiskey. ⭐️

The tour is free (reservations required) and lasts approximately 70 minutes.
Experience the story of Masataka Taketsuru and his wife, Rita, while getting a close-up look at the manufacturing process.
You can enjoy the museum, restaurant, and shop in the free viewing area without a reservation. The paid tasting area is also popular (free tastings are available with the tour).
The smoked cheese vending machine is perfect for tastings. 🧀

The staff are friendly, and there are plenty of pamphlets in foreign languages.
It closes in the evening, so we recommend visiting early. ⏰

[Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery]
📍Address: 7-6 Kurokawa-cho, Yoichi-cho, Yoichi-gun, Hokkaido
About a 2-minute walk from JR Yoichi Station. 🚃
Get off at the "Yoichi Ekimae" bus stop. 🚌
Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (tours require reservations and are free).
Tour reservations can be made on the official website.

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