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Exclusive Cocktail Experience at InterContinental Sapporo

InterContinental Sapporo invites you to a series of special cocktail events in collaboration with renowned bartenders from around the globe. Titled The Norva Trilogy – Global Guest Bartender Series, this event will run from November 2025 to January 2026, offering unique cocktails and a memorable evening.

The Event Overview

This special series consists of three events:

• - Dates: November 15, December 6, January 31
• - Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• - Price: 2,500 yen (including one cocktail)
• - Venue: Norva Bar, InterContinental Sapporo

The bar area will be in a standing style, allowing guests to mingle and enjoy each unique experience. Each guest bartender will present their signature cocktails along with a limited edition cocktail of the night.

Chapter 1: November 15 – Guest Bartender Ryoji Toshiro

Kicking off the series is Ryoji Toshiro, owner and bartender from TOSHIRO’S BAR in Niseko. Known for his skillful techniques that reflect the essence of Hokkaido's nature, Toshiro will collaborate with Norva Bar's head mixologist, Asako Natori, to create an unforgettable cocktail experience for attendees.

About Ryoji Toshiro:
Born in Sapporo in 1979, Toshiro began his career at Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo’s CROSS VAULT before opening TOSHIRO’S BAR in the Hirafu area of Niseko. His cocktails are designed to engage all five senses, using local ingredients like homemade ginger syrup that warms the soul during cold winters.

Notable Achievements:

• - Winner of Best of Niseko Awards in the Best Après-Ski category for three consecutive years
• - Grand Prize winner at the Keio Plaza Hotel Cocktail Awards
• - Top 20 finalist in the Beefeater Global Competition Japan in 2014

Chapter 2: December 6 – Guest Bartender Shinya Kiba

Shinya Kiba, owner and bartender of Yakoboku in Kumamoto, will join Asako Natori for the second chapter. Kiba, known for his cocktails that emphasize the unique flavors of Kumamoto, will share creations inspired by the essence of the region and its aromatic offerings.

About Shinya Kiba:
Hailing from Nagasu, Kumamoto, he opened Yakoboku in 2020 after working in a Singapore speakeasy. His signature cocktail 'Yakoboku' draws inspiration from night-blooming flowers, combining various spices and flavors into a poetic experience.

Notable Achievements:

• - Champion of Diageo World Class Japan 2021
• - Ranked 84th at Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2023

Chapter 3: January 31 – Guest Bartender Hiroyasu Kawakami

To close the trilogy, Hiroyasu Kawakami, owner of Bar BenFiddich in Tokyo, will present a selection of cocktails from his farm-to-glass philosophy, showcasing herbs and spices grown in his own garden. This final night promises a blend of natural elements and craft bartending.

About Hiroyasu Kawakami:
After gaining experience at various bars in Tokyo, he founded Bar BenFiddich in 2013 where he nurtures his own botanicals for signature cocktails like the green Negroni.

Notable Achievements:

• - Won the Botanist Gin Foliage Cocktail Competition in 2015
• - Ranked 32nd in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2021

How to Reserve

To experience this unique series, reservations are available at Norva Bar Reservation.

This event not only highlights the skills of celebrated bartenders but also enriches the local cocktail culture through inventive flavors and creative presentations. Each evening reflects a dedication to the art of mixology, ensuring that every guest leaves with unforgettable memories and inspiration for their own cocktail adventures.