Over the past few years, Japanese whisky has developed a global reputation. Popular whiskies have seen a steep increase in prices. Some bottles now sell at auction for sums that could rival vintage wines and rare works of art. Buyers with discerning tastes and thick pocket books can often be found searching through secondary market shops hoping to swipe up rare or trending whiskies for both local and foreign clientele. The major distilleries aren't the only ones who are making a name for themselves. Hoping to capitalize on Japan's new-found whisky fame, smaller craft distilleries are also popping up across the country. One maker even scoured the country until it found an ideal place to make its whisky - a region in the north of Japan that has a climate very similar to Scotland's Isle of Islay.