A sophisticated Japanese-American classic that elegantly showcases Japanese whisky with floral maraschino, bright yuzu, and aromatic orange bitters—capturing the cultural exchange of mid-century Kyoto.
35%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
“Created in spring 1952 by bartender Kenji Tanaka at the Imperial Hotel in Kyoto, the Kyoto Flyer was designed as a bridge between cultures during the post-war period of cultural exchange. Named for the American pilots who frequented the hotel bar and the "flying" sensation of its first sip, it combined Japanese whisky with maraschino liqueur (a nod to the Aviation cocktail) and yuzu liqueur for distinctly Japanese identity. The drink became the signature of the Imperial Hotel and was considered the most fashionable cocktail in Japan through the late 1950s and early 1960s before falling out of favor, only to be rediscovered during the craft cocktail renaissance of the early 2000s.”
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass for at least 15 minutes
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice
Stir for 20-25 seconds until the mixing glass is frosty
Double strain into the chilled glass
Express the oils from a lemon peel over the surface and place on rim
Served up in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass
Express oils over drink surface
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Keep yuzu liqueur refrigerated to preserve its fresh, vibrant flavor
Stir gently but thoroughly to achieve perfect dilution without over-aerating
Express fresh lemon peel oils over the drink for essential aromatic lift
Serve immediately after stirring for optimal temperature and aromatics
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Kyoto Flyer.
A drier version with reduced maraschino for Tokyo's preference for stiffer drinks.
More citrus-forward and floral profile with increased yuzu, popular during cherry blossom season.
Smoky, intense cousin with lightly peated Scotch and a dash of absinthe.
Lighter, more herbaceous version with Japanese gin and sake.
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
An elegant gin sour with maraschino and lemon—bright, botanical, and subtly cherry-kissed.
A late-19th-century martini offshoot with dry vermouth, a touch of maraschino, and aromatic absinthe and bitters.
A sophisticated modern classic that bridges the gap between the Casino and Aviation cocktails, combining Old Tom gin, maraschino liqueur, and a whisper of crème de violette for elegant complexity.