This is the distillation building, arguably the highlight of the guided tour Even in Scotland, the home of whisky, adjusting how the coal burns to keep the right heat requires a skilled craftsman's touch, so this is where they practice "direct coal-fired distillation," a rare method that is hardly used anymore The slightly smaller pot still, 5th from the front, is apparently the original one that Masataka Taketsuru himself had made

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The Yoichi Distillery's former warehouse building is an important facility that conveys the history of Japanese whisky making. Founded in 1934 by founder Masataka Taketsuru, the Yoichi Distillery is Japan's first authentic whisky distillery to adopt traditional Scottish methods. The former warehouse building has particularly high historical value among its facilities and has provided an ideal environment for maturing whisky. The stone building is less affected by the outside air and can maintain the stable temperature and humidity needed for maturing whisky. Whisky matured in this warehouse has a deep flavor and aroma and is loved by many whisky fans. For visitors, the former warehouse building is a special place where they can feel the origins of Japanese whisky culture.

I visited on a tour that requires advance reservation. This is the main spot of the tour. They distill using the heat of a coal fire. The staff member was frequently stoking the fire with coal. Since Mr. Taketsuru's family ran a sake brewery, apparently even the whisky distillation barrels are decorated with shide (paper streamers).

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