#Japan #Tokyo #Japan Spirits #Otemachi Gate #Distilled Spirits

Japan Spirits Festival 2026: A New Beginning

The highly anticipated Japan Spirits Festival 2026 is back, promising an exciting weekend dedicated to the celebration of distilled spirits. This year, the festival will take place at the newly opened Otemachi Gate Building on September 26-27, 2026. With free admission, it's the perfect event for spirits enthusiasts and newcomers alike, and it'll offer attendees the chance to discover their favorite distilleries over the course of two fun-filled days.

A Fresh Venue

Previously held at the TOKYO TORCH park, this year's festival is switching venues due to construction at the Torch Tower. The Otemachi Gate Building, which opened just recently on July 31, serves as a new landmark connecting Otemachi and Kanda. This location boasts excellent accessibility, being approximately three minutes on foot from Otemachi Station and about six minutes from Kanda Station, with nine transport lines available for guests traveling from various regions.

Exciting Distilleries Gathered

More than 30 distilleries from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south will showcase their award-winning spirits at this year's festival. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to sample a diverse range of distilled products such as Japanese whiskey, craft gin, shochu, awamori, and rum. Whether you prefer soda mixes, tonic, on the rocks, or straight, you can freely explore and find your preferred distillery.

How to Participate

Entry to the festival is free! Upon arrival, participants can purchase special tokens — each costing 250 yen. These tokens can be exchanged for spirits at various distillery booths, creating a unique tasting experience customized to your preferences. For those looking for an even more enjoyable experience, advance tickets will be available for purchase, inclusive of an original glass and a set amount of tokens. Online purchase options make it hassle-free.

• - Advance Ticket (1 Glass): 2,500 yen (incl. tax)
• - Advance Pair Ticket (2 Glasses): 6,000 yen (incl. tax)
• - Advance Tokens: 2,500 yen (11 tokens)

Please note that cancellations are not accepted post-purchase, and refunds are not provided if unable to attend.

Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Options

For those who prefer not to drink, the festival will feature a dedicated soft drink booth offering delightful options, such as freshly squeezed lemon squashes made with locally sourced ingredients. Everyone is welcome to enjoy the atmosphere of the event without partaking in spirits.

Industry-Only Tasting Time

On both days from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, a special tasting event will be held exclusively for industry stakeholders, including retailers, restaurants, and exporters.

Event Details

• - Date & Time:

- September 26, 2026: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Doors open at 1:45 PM)
- September 27, 2026: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM (Doors open at 1:45 PM)

• - Location: Otemachi Gate Building, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
• - Access: Approximately 3 minutes on foot from Otemachi Station; approximately 6 minutes on foot from Kanda Station.

Experience Japan's Distilled Spirits in Style

From sampling refreshing gin and tonics to savoring the depth of a straight whiskey, the Japan Spirits Festival 2026 is an invaluable opportunity for both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. The festival aims to intensify the appreciation of various Japanese distilled spirits while creating memorable experiences under the autumn sky. Whether you are a fan of shochu served with hot water or enjoy exploring the diverse range of tequila, vodka, or rum coming from Japan, this festival will have something for everyone.

Come join us at this brand-new landmark, the Otemachi Gate Building, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Japanese distilled spirits at the Japan Spirits Festival 2026! Don't miss the chance to connect with distinguished distillers and find your new favorite drink!

Participating Distilleries & Manufacturers

Stay tuned for the lineup of distilleries featured this year, with the list to be announced closer to the event date. We look forward to welcoming all spirits enthusiasts from across the country!