House of Suntory, the founding house of Japanese whisky, has opened applications for the UK Suntory DOJO programme 2026, its ‘immersive mentorship and development initiative’ designed to give bartenders a deeper understanding of authentic Japanese bar culture.
Delivered by Japanese craft masters and industry leaders, the training focuses not only on the skills, but also the philosophy behind the ‘true art’ of Japanese bartending.
Exclusively available to 20 bartenders from across the UK, The DOJO UK programme will provide six months of intensive growth and development including four Essence of Japan masterclasses.
Adhering to the principle of ‘Kaizen’ – meaning ‘continuous improvement’ – at the end of the programme, participants will create their own three drink Kaizen Menu and host it in their venue to further refine the skills acquired.
The DOJO Closing Ceremony will then bring ‘a full day of community, learning and Kaizen Drinks’, where one lucky bartender will win a once in a lifetime trip to Japan with The House of Suntory.
But participants’ involvement won’t finish there. On completion of the programme, bartenders become part of the DOJO community where lifelong friendships are made during Omotenashi events held throughout the year.
In previous years, the programme has helped spotlight some of the UK’s most exciting bartending talent, including 2024 standout Ryan Mackie of Lyaness, as well as previous winners Francesco Cercato and Amine Fechtal.
This year’s application process opens in two stages, with Stage 1 applications open from now until 13th April, followed by Stage 2 applications opening from 20th April to 4th May.
Successful applicants will then go on to take part in The Essence of Japan Masterclasses from 24th to 26th June, followed by 1-2-1 mentorship meetings in July.
From 11th August to 1st September 2026, participants will be challenged to develop their own three-drink Kaizen Menu, before the programme culminates in the DOJO Closing Ceremony on 2nd September.
Full details and application information can be found here.
