#Japan #Tokyo #Kavalan #Whisky Festival #Japanese Whisky

Whisky Festival 2026 in Tokyo: Special Talk Shows

On November 6th, 2026, the Whisky Culture Institute will host a remarkable event at the Tokyo International Forum, featuring two exclusive talk shows during the Premium Night. This exciting gathering will showcase the innovation and evolution within the whiskey industry, with a focus on Japanese and Taiwanese whiskey. The event is free to attend for all participants!

Special Talk Shows at Premium Night

Talk Show 1: Creators of Next-Generation Japanese Whiskies

Time: 17:30 - 18:00
Panelists:

• - Shingo Takeuchi (Executive Officer, Sakurao Brewery and Distillery)
• - Akito Watanabe (Director, Tamano Ascend Distillery)
• - Motoki Harigaya (CEO, Danjyu Distillery)

Overview:
Japanese whiskey is entering a new era, with diverse distilleries around the country producing unique spirits. This talk show will delve into the philosophy of whiskey production through the lenses of terroir, ingredients, and technology. Each panelist will share insights into their distinct approaches while discussing the unique identity of Japanese whiskey and its future vision on the global stage.

Talk Show 2: Kavalan's Cultural Impact

Time: 18:30 - 19:00
Panelist:

• - Yu-Ding Li (Chairman, Kavalan Distillery)

Overview:
Kavalan, a Taiwanese single malt whiskey, has swiftly gained international acclaim. This dialogue with Chairman Li will explore the brand's evolution and the unique maturation process that Taiwan offers. Together with the moderator, a whiskey connoisseur and editor of 'Whisky Galore', they will discuss why world-class whiskey emerged from Taiwan and the values it brings to the global whiskey community.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Whisky Festival 2026 in Tokyo

Visit the official event page

• - Date: November 6-7, 2026
• - Venue: Tokyo International Forum Hall E, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
• - Admission Fee: Premium Night ¥3,500; First and Second Sessions ¥5,000 each.
• - Capacity: 2,200 attendees per session with limited availability over two days (totaling 6,600 entries).

About the Whisky Festival

The Whisky Festival is a grand tasting event that brings together whiskey and spirits from around the globe. Over 80 to 100 booths representing distilleries, manufacturers, importers, and retailers from both domestic and international markets will offer tastings. Participants must be over 20 years old to join this celebration of whiskey culture.

Since its inception in 2007, the event has expanded yearly, with different themed festivals and new locations like Yokohama and Matsumoto in the coming years. A majority of whiskey samples offered at the booths are free for tasting, allowing enthusiasts to experience flavors from various distilleries without financial commitment.

About the Whisky Culture Institute

The Whisky Culture Institute, led by the esteemed whiskey commentator Mamoru Tsuchiya, promotes whiskey knowledge and appreciation. Founded in 2001, the Institute is dedicated to educating the public about domestic and global whiskey culture through events and publications, contributing to the continuous growth of whiskey enthusiasts and consumers alike.

This festival also serves as a stage for the next generation of creators in the whiskey industry, connecting the rich traditions and innovative minds driving the future of this beloved spirit.

Join us for this exceptional opportunity to engage with whiskey creators, learn about the craft, and taste some of the best spirits the world has to offer!