Japanese Whisky Tasting in Ginza: Three Suntory Masterpieces

Spend an hour with Japan's rarest whiskies and leave with a keepsake

A private whisky tasting at Imami Ginza in Tokyo where you sample three premium expressions from the House of Suntory (Yamazaki 18, Hakushu 18, and Hibiki 21) in a serene private room with tasting guidance and a complimentary mini bottle of Japanese sake. The experience runs about an hour and includes a live guide in English or Japanese. Participants must be at least 20 years old.

The experience

You arrive at Imami Ginza and are guided into a private room designed for quiet focus. Three whiskies sit before you: Yamazaki 18, aged in Mizunara oak for its warm depth; Hakushu 18, known for crisp smokiness; and Hibiki 21, a harmonious blend. Each one represents nearly two decades of craftsmanship from Suntory. Tasting notes and background details are provided so you can explore the color, nose, palate and finish of each expression at your own pace.

The guide walks you through the character of each whisky, revealing how terroir, aging and blending shape what you taste. Yamazaki's richness contrasts with Hakushu's smoke. Hibiki's balance sits between them. You're tasting what few people in the world ever access: bottles that command waiting lists and premium prices outside Japan.

The experience concludes with a mini bottle of Japanese sake to take home, a tangible reminder of the afternoon. The private room means no crowds, no rushed pacing, and no need to navigate a busy bar or shop floor to enjoy these rare pours.

What’s included

• Experience fees.
• tasting notes and background details for each whisky.
• mini bottle of Japanese sake as a complimentary gift (selection varies by availability).
• live guide in English or Japanese.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day8 departure times: the first at 11:00, the last at 18:00

AgesAdult (20 and older) · Under 20: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish and Japanese

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

ConfirmationConfirmation within 48 h

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by H.I.S.Co., Ltd.

Is this one for you?An hour is enough to savor three whiskies without consuming your whole afternoon, leaving time for other Ginza stops or a meal elsewhere in Tokyo. The private room means no standing at a bar or waiting for a table in a crowded venue.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Japanese.

What are the three whiskies I'll taste at Imami Ginza?

Yamazaki 18, Hakushu 18, and Hibiki 21: three premium aged expressions from the House of Suntory. Each has been aged for nearly two decades and represents a distinct character: Yamazaki brings Mizunara oak warmth, Hakushu offers crisp smokiness, and Hibiki delivers a harmonious blend.

How long does the tasting experience take?

The experience runs about an hour, giving you time to explore the nuances of each whisky without rushing through the tasting.

What's included in the experience?

The tasting fees, guidance on each whisky's background and tasting notes, and a complimentary mini bottle of Japanese sake as a take-home gift are all included. The sake selection may vary depending on availability.

What's the age requirement, and will I need to show ID?

All participants must be at least 20 years old by Japanese law. The venue may request ID for age verification at arrival.

Can I purchase a full bottle or order food during the tasting?

Full bottle purchases and food service are available as optional add-ons at checkout. You can arrange these when you book if you'd like them.

What if I'm running late to my reservation?

If you arrive later than your reserved time, the venue may not be able to secure your private room, so arriving on time helps ensure the intimate setting is ready for you.