Kyoto Flyer

Kyoto Flyer

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

History & Heritage

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.

Ingredients

Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.

Method

Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.

1

Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass for at least 15 minutes

2

Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice

3

Stir for 20-25 seconds until the mixing glass is frosty

4

Double strain into the chilled glass

5

Express the oils from a lemon peel over the surface and place on rim

Glassware

coupe

Served up in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass

Garnish

Lemon peel

Express oils over drink surface

Flavor Journey

Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.

4

Sweet

out of 10

2

Sour

out of 10

2

Bitter

out of 10

8

Strong

out of 10

Master's Tips

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

Variations & Riffs

Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Kyoto Flyer.

Tokyo Express

Minor Tweak

A drier version with reduced maraschino for Tokyo's preference for stiffer drinks.

Changes
Maraschino Liqueur:0.8 oz0.5 oz

Sakura Dream

Minor Tweak

More citrus-forward and floral profile with increased yuzu, popular during cherry blossom season.

Changes
Yuzu Liqueur:0.3 oz0.5 oz

Osaka Night

Major Variation

Smoky, intense cousin with lightly peated Scotch and a dash of absinthe.

Changes
Japanese WhiskyLightly Peated Scotch Whisky(2 oz)
Absinthe(0.1 oz)

Sapporo Snow

Major Variation

Lighter, more herbaceous version with Japanese gin and sake.

Changes
Japanese WhiskyJapanese Gin(1.5 oz)
Sake(0.5 oz)

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