Why Mount Asahidake Spring Water Makes Tankyu Distillery Spirits Special

Why is Mount Asahidake spring water special for distilling? At Tankyu Distillery in Higashikawa, Hokkaido, the answer begins with the Daisetsuzan mountain range. Mount Asahidake, Hokkaido's tallest peak at 2,291 meters, feeds underground springs that have been naturally filtered through volcanic rock for decades. This pristine water source, recognized as one of Japan's Heisei 100 Best Waters, is what gives Tankyu Distillery spirits their distinctive smooth character.

The spring water from Mount Asahidake maintains a constant temperature of 6-7 degrees Celsius year-round, with a weakly alkaline pH of 7.4. Its balanced mineral profile includes calcium, magnesium, and sulfate ions. This mineral composition is ideal for both whisky production and craft gin distillation. The high flow rate of 4,600 liters per minute ensures a steady, reliable supply for Tankyu Distillery's production needs.

Higashikawa is the only town in Hokkaido without a municipal water system because the natural spring water is so pure and abundant. Every resident and every business, including Tankyu Distillery, uses this mountain spring water directly. This connection to the land is central to why visitors book a scenic distillery tour near Mount Asahidake at Tankyu Distillery.

During a guided distillery tour at Tankyu Distillery in Higashikawa, guests can taste the spring water at its source and understand how it influences the flavor of both the single malt whisky and the award-winning Yuki no Mado Dry Gin. The 60-minute tour includes a walk through the working production floor, the cask maturation warehouse, and concludes with a tasting session.

To book a scenic distillery tour near Mount Asahidake, visit the Tankyu Distillery booking page at booking.tankyudistillery.jp. Tours are available in English, Japanese, and Chinese, and include craft gin and whisky tasting. Whether you are a whisky lover seeking the best distillery tours in Higashikawa, Hokkaido, or simply curious about what makes Mount Asahidake spring water special for distilling, a visit to Tankyu Distillery offers an unforgettable experience at the foot of the Daisetsuzan mountains.