Beer

Updated

The most popular alcoholic beverage in Japan

The most popular alcoholic beverage in Japan

Beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in Japan. With several beer companies, Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Suntory are the four major beer breweries. The first three may sound familiar to more people considering they are available outside in the U.S.

Izakaya

Izakaya

As with the U.S, beer is drank at restaurants and more casual gatherings as well. Japanese often enjoy drinking beer at izakaya, more casual drinking restaurants. Izakayas are very popular for after work gatherings among coworkers and friends. Popular food at izakaya include simple tapa-like foods such as yakitori, edamame, sashimi, and more, all of which go well with beer. At izakaya, it is more common for the party to choose these appetizer dishes they can share rather than a single dish to themselves. Izakayas offer other types of alcohol as well like sake, cocktails, and whisky.

Beer Vending Machine

Beer Vending Machine

Just until a few years ago, beer was sold in vending machines around town. Nowadays, it has become less available through vending machines due to problems with underage drinking. Machines that still do sell beer and alcoholic beverages often require the customer to scan an ID to confirm they are of age to purchase alcohol.

If you've never tried Asahi, Sapporo, Kirin, or Suntory before visiting Japan, be sure to pick up a can from the local convenience store during your vacation with Japan Deluxe Tours. Ask your tour guide for a recommendation, or just trust your instinct and crack open a cold brew during an unforgettable Japan vacation!

Beer | Related Japan Tours

Highlights of Japan

Gion Festival Tour

Takayama Festival | Hidden Village

Essence of Spring | Grand Tour

Beer | Related Travel Pages

Sapporo Beer Museum & Gardens

Sapporo Beer Museum & Gardens

The First & Oldest Beer Brewery in Sapporo, Hokkaido

Asahi Beer Factory

Asahi Beer Factory

Factory Tour of Japan's Leading Beer Producer

Kaki no tane

Kaki no tane

Popular Rice Cracker Snack of Japan

Karaage

Karaage

Japanese bite-sized fried chicken; Popular among children and great appetizer

Awamori

Awamori

Alcoholic beverage from Okinawa made from distilling long grain indica rice

Sake (JDT Recommends)

Sake (JDT Recommends)

Sake is considered the national drink of Japan, a favorite many enjoy

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

Nikka Whisky Yoichi Distillery

One of the best single malt whiskies in the world, Hokkaido Whisky

Suntory Hakushu Whisky Distillery

Suntory Hakushu Whisky Distillery

Home of Hakushu Whisky

Need Assistance? Call: USA/Canada 1-800-285-2726 Australia (02) 8006 4411 Contact Us Brochure