In the heart of Laos, where the timeless landscapes of old Asia still breathe, I found a story that changed my perspective on spirits forever. This is the first report of my journey to the LAODI Distillery.
My story with LAODI began not in a bar, but in a small, quiet seminar room around 2016 or 2017. I happened to attend a JICA-related lecture with only about 15 people in attendance. There, I met Mr. Ikuzo Inoue, the representative of LAODI.
As I listened to him speak about crafting world-class rum while supporting the local community in a foreign land, I felt a physical shock to my soul. His dedication to combining “social contribution” with “spirit-making” resonated deeply with my own values. At that time, I had already established a clinic in Ghana to give back to the world, so his words felt like “Hitsuzen” (Inevitability).
I realized then that rum is more than just an alcoholic beverage; it can be a bridge for human connection and a tool for positive change.
As a “Japanese Whisky and Rum Expert,” I believe that when you touch the passion and the “why” behind the bottle, the liquid tastes more profound. I traveled to Laos to witness the origin of this mission with my own eyes. At Bar Little Happiness in Hiroshima, I don’t just pour you a glass of LAODI; I share with you the ambition and the heart of Mr. Inoue that I encountered in that small room years ago.
Let us toast to the spirits that make the world a better place.
↓(Dive deep into the world of whisky and rum. This site can be translated into English or Korean using the language switcher tab at the top of the page.)↓ https://little-happiness.jp/columns/laodi-distillery-visit-vol1/
↓Deep Dive into the Story: For those who wish to explore the full, detailed history and my personal reflections on this distillery, please visit our original column here (Japanese): (You can use the language switcher at the top of our site to translate the page into your preferred language.)↓
出逢いは必然。Rum&Whiskyの世界へようこそ。 (An encounter is inevitable. Welcome to the world of Rum & Whisky.)
Guest Information
• Multilingual Menu: Available in 8 languages
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted
• Cover Charge: No cover charge
• Atmosphere: Quiet / No smoking (Electronic cigarettes allowed) / Solo & Small groups welcome
Visit Us in Hiroshima
We welcome guests from all over the world with our 8-language menu and a massive collection of over 1,000 whiskies.
Explore our vast range of Japanese labels, featuring an unrivaled selection of local Hiroshima craft whiskies, alongside an extensive array of fine Scotches.
No matter where you are from, your “destined glass” is waiting.
Find Out More
• Google Maps: [Get Directions & View Location]
• Bar Information & Concept: [Our Philosophy, Menu, and Service System]
• Spirits Column & Distillery Visits: [Exclusive Stories & Distillery Reports]
(Dive deep into the world of whisky and rum. This site can be translated into English or Korean using the language switcher tab at the top of the page.)
