#Japan #Tokyo #Japanese Whisky #Whisky Culture Institute #Whisky Distilleries

New Edition of Japanese Whisky Distillery Poster Release

The Whisky Culture Institute, based in Shibuya, Tokyo, is excited to announce the upcoming launch of the revised edition of the 'Japanese Whisky Distillery Poster 2026.' This new release is in response to the complete sell-out of the original poster launched last year and aligns with the content of the 'JAPANESE WHISKY YEARBOOK 2026.'

The poster showcases a detailed map featuring 115 operational and upcoming Japanese whisky distilleries as of January 2026. It will be available for early purchase during the 'Whisky and Spirits Festival 2026 in Yokohama' on April 25 and 26. Following this event, the poster will be offered on the official online shop starting April 28.

Features of the New Poster

The updated poster includes significant changes compared to its predecessor:

• - Prepared to Operational: Taiki Cosmic Glen Distillery has transitioned from the 'preparation' phase to an active operational status.
• - New Addition: The Niyodogawa Distillery is newly introduced in this edition.

This poster serves not only as a stunning piece of home decor, but it also serves a practical purpose for whisky enthusiasts and those studying for whisky connoisseur exams or certification.

About the Whisky Culture Institute

Established in March 2001, the Whisky Culture Institute, led by renowned whisky critic Mamoru Tsuchiya, is dedicated to promoting whisky culture and knowledge. With a long history of research into both domestic and international whisky traditions, the institute is a vital resource for information dissemination and engagement within the whisky community.

The institute publishes Japan's only whisky specialty magazine, 'Whisky Galore', and organizes events such as whisky festivals, aiming to nurture whisky enthusiasts and promote culture around this revered beverage.

In addition, they administer the 'Whisky Connoisseur Qualification Exam', assessing knowledge and tasting skills, as well as the 'Whisky Certification' for those keen on amplifying their appreciation and understanding of whisky. Furthermore, the institute runs the Tokyo Whisky & Spirits Competition (TWSC), Japan's premier event for judging spirits worldwide, initiated in 2019.

Leadership Profile: Mamoru Tsuchiya

Mamoru Tsuchiya, the president of the Whisky Culture Institute, was born in Sado, Niigata in 1954 and graduated from Gakushuin University. After working as a weekly magazine journalist, he traveled to the UK in 1987, where he encountered Scotch single malt for the first time during an interview in Scotland. This experience ignited his passion for Scotch whisky. Upon returning to Japan, he became a prominent whisky critic and in 1998 was honored as one of the 'World's Top Five Whisky Writers' by Highland Distillers.

From September 2014 to March 2015, Tsuchiya served as a whisky consultant for the NHK morning drama 'Massan'. He has authored numerous books, including 'The Comprehensive Collection of Single Malt Scotch', 'The Complete Guide to Blended Whisky', and 'The Complete Bible of Whisky'. His recent works include 'Complete Edition of Single Malt Scotch' and the informative 'Japanese Whisky Yearbook'.

In addition to his editorial role at 'Whisky Galore', Tsuchiya holds positions as the head of TWSC, chair of the 'Japanese Whisky Day' Executive Committee, and is a representative director of the Japan Whisky Culture Promotion Association (JWPC) established in July 2024.