Karuizawa Distillers has announced plans to create a new distillery in Furano, Hokkaido. The project will be in partnership with Seibu Group and Furano City.

Named from a contraction of 'Furano' and 'bliss', Furaliss is scheduled to be opened in 2028. This is the second distillery from Karuizawa Distillers; in 2023, the company opened Komoro Distillery at the foothills of Mount Asama.

Karuizawa Distillers is named in homage to Karuizawa Distillery, an iconic name in Japanese whisky which ran from 1955 to 2000. Karuizawa whisky has since returned under an unrelated company, Karuizawa Whisky Co. 

As well as being a whisky production site, Furaliss will hold distillery tours and educational programmes, and have an onsite bar and shop. It will be overseen by master distiller and blender Ian Chang. Chang commented: "My goal is not simply to create a place for whisky production, but to build a symbol of growth, rooted in the land of Furano. With deep respect for nature, I hope to offer both world-class whisky and unforgettable experiences here."

Koji Shimaoka, CEO of Karuizawa Distillers Inc, added: “It is a great honour for us to take on the challenge of creating world-class whisky in the exceptional setting of Furano. At our new distillery, we are committed to making the most of the region’s natural blessings and cultural richness, while pursuing excellence in both whisky-making and the guest experience.”

The distillery aims to "harmonise" with its environment in the rural city of Furano. Its sustainability plans include partnerships with local organisations to repurpose byproducts from the whisky-making process. Karuizawa Distillers says that its will also "help strengthen pathways to attract both domestic and international travelers to Furano" through Seibu Group's tourism network. 

Taketoshi Kita, mayor of Furano City, said: “Furano is a region that draws visitors from around the world with its stunning scenery, natural resources and locally produced delicacies — such as outstanding fresh produce and wines. This new whisky distillery project represents an exciting step forward in generating renewed interest in Furano — in partnership with the Seibu Group, a longstanding ally in promoting the region, and our new friends at Karuizawa Distillers, Inc.”

Takashi Goto, chairman and CEO of Seibu Holdings Inc, added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Karuizawa Distillers and to integrate their vision, with the rich natural and cultural assets of Furano. Together, the three parties aim to create a dream project that inspires people around the world. We are committed to enhancing Furano’s appeal and generating further interest in the region, through this collaboration.”