Japan is known for its rich culinary culture, and many people visit the country specifically to experience its food. But it’s not just about the meals—traditional Japanese alcoholic beverages and modern alcoholic drinks unique to Japan are also enjoyed. In this guide, we’ll introduce some popular drinks you might want to try when visiting Japan.
Japanese Alcohol Culture
You might be surprised to learn that many Japanese people enjoy drinking alcohol, whether for work-related gatherings or casual reunions with friends. Drinking is a popular social activity, with izakayas—casual bar-restaurants—being particularly favoured for this. They offer a wide range of alcoholic options, from traditional drinks to modern cocktails and unique Japanese creations.
Traditional Japanese alcoholic beverages are closely tied to the seasons and local landscapes. Through these drinks, you can experience the history and flavours unique to each region. Traditional alcohols are often served at cultural events and celebrations, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Popular Alcoholic Beverages in Japan
Traditional Japanese Drinks
Sake
Sake is a globally well-known Japanese alcoholic beverage and a traditional drink made by fermenting rice and water. There are several types, including “junmai,” “ginjo,” and “honjozo,” each defined by their ingredients and production methods. The flavour ranges from dry to sweet, and methods of brewing vary by region, offering a rich variety.
Sake can be enjoyed either cold or warm, depending on the season and food pairing, enhancing its unique characteristics. Notable sake-producing regions include Niigata, Hyogo, and Kyoto.
Shochu
Unlike sake, shochu is a distilled spirit made from barley, sweet potatoes, rice, or other ingredients. It has a higher alcohol content and offers different flavours depending on the region, making it fun to explore and find your favourite. Shochu is particularly famous in Kyushu areas such as Kagoshima, Kumamoto, and Oita.
Awamori
Awamori is a type of shochu that uses black koji mould, which gives it a distinct flavour. Originating from Okinawa, this distilled spirit is an essential part of meals and celebrations in the region. It is usually enjoyed on the rocks or diluted with water. There are some special Awamori you can only find in Okinawa, so be sure to try it if you visit.
Amazake
A sweet, thick, and milky drink made by fermenting rice. Amazake can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic, and it is a popular winter drink that warms you up. It’s easily found at convenience stores and supermarkets, so give it a try!
Modern Japanese Drinks
Plum Wine (Umeshu)
This sweet and fruity drink is made by infusing plums with sugar and white liquor. It’s especially popular among young women and is often enjoyed on the rocks or with soda. Easier to drink than sake or shochu, it’s a staple at izakayas.
Highball
A cocktail of whiskey and soda water, the highball is a super popular alcoholic beverage in Japan, especially during the summer. Variations like shochu or sake highballs have also become popular in recent years. You can find them not just in bars and izakayas but also readily available at convenience stores and supermarkets.
Chuhai / Sour
A cocktail made by blending shochu or spirits with fruit flavours like lemon or grapefruit. While citrus flavours are the most common, you can also find unique variations such as yuzu, green tea, and tomato. Chuhai is a casual, accessible drink, perfect for exploring Japan’s unique flavours.
International Drinks Popular in Japan
Beer
Pilsner-style beers dominate the market in Japan, with Asahi Super Dry, Kirin Ichiban Shibori, and Suntory Premium Malts leading the pack. Craft beer has also been growing in popularity, and trying different varieties during your trip can be a delightful experience.
Whisky
Japanese whisky is globally renowned, blending techniques influenced by Scotland with unique Japanese methods. Brands like Suntory’s “Yamazaki” and “Hibiki” have earned global acclaim, but more casual options like “Kaku” and “Black Nikka” are also widely available at izakayas
Wine
Domestic winemaking has been expanding, and the dry white wine from Koshu is particularly noteworthy. Imported wines from France, Italy, and Spain are widely available, but you can also find affordable Chilean wines starting at around 500 yen for a bottle, making it easy to enjoy quality wine without breaking the bank.
Cocktails
Popular cocktails like gin and tonic, mojitos, and cassis orange are enjoyed at bars and izakayas across Japan. There are also local creations such as the Bamboo, Cherry Blossom, and Yukiguni cocktails that are worth a try.
From traditional drinks to modern twists, Japan offers a variety of alcoholic beverages that reflect its culture, seasons, and regions. When you visit, be sure to enjoy not just sake but also the diverse selection of alcoholic beverages that Japan has to offer. You’re sure to discover a new favourite!
