When you think of Japan, it’s easy to picture sushi, ramen, and street food stalls bustling with energy. But what often gets overshadowed is the incredible variety of drinks the country has to offer. From traditional brews to modern soft drinks, Japan has something to quench everyone’s thirst. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun or just looking to broaden your palate, here are 15 must-try Japanese drinks you won’t want to miss.
Table of Contents
1. Sake (日本酒)
Let’s kick things off with Japan’s national drink—sake. This rice wine has been brewed for centuries and offers a diverse range of flavors. Whether you prefer it chilled or warmed, sipping sake is an essential part of Japanese culture. Pair it with some sushi, and you’ll feel like a local in no time.
To read about the difference between Soju and Sake click here.
2. Shochu (焼酎)
Next up is shochu, a spirit that packs a punch! Distilled from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice, shochu is a versatile drink enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed in cocktails. Its lower alcohol content compared to sake makes it a great choice for social gatherings.
3. Umeshu (梅酒)
If you’re after something sweet and fruity, umeshu is your go-to. This plum wine is made by steeping ume fruits in shochu or sake, resulting in a deliciously tangy drink. Sip it chilled, or use it as a mixer in cocktails.
4. Matcha Latte (抹茶ラテ)
For tea lovers, a matcha latte is a must. This vibrant green drink combines finely ground green tea with milk (dairy or non-dairy) for a creamy, energizing beverage. Enjoy it hot or iced for a refreshing treat, perfect for a summer day.
5. Ramune (ラムネ)
Ramune is a classic Japanese soda known for its unique bottle design featuring a glass marble as a stopper. This fizzy drink comes in a range of flavors, from original lemon-lime to strawberry and melon. It’s a fun experience to pop the marble and enjoy the bubbly goodness!
6. Calpis (カルピス)
Calpis is a refreshing, yogurt-like drink that’s mildly sweet and tangy. It can be enjoyed straight or diluted with water or soda for a bubbly delight. This popular drink is perfect for a hot day, offering a taste of nostalgia for many locals.
7. Mugi-cha (麦茶)
A staple in Japanese households, mugi-cha is a roasted barley tea served cold. It’s caffeine-free and has a nutty flavor that makes it incredibly refreshing. You’ll often find it served at restaurants and summer festivals.
8. Yuzu Juice (柚子ジュース)
Yuzu, a citrus fruit native to East Asia, is used to create a zesty juice that packs a punch. Often mixed with water or soda, yuzu juice is a fragrant and refreshing drink that can brighten up any meal. Its tartness makes it perfect for those hot summer days.
9. Soda Water (炭酸水)
Japan loves its carbonated drinks, and soda water is a staple found in many households. Often used as a mixer for cocktails (particularly with Whisky) or enjoyed on its own, this fizzy drink is light and refreshing, especially when served with a slice of lemon.
10. Green Tea (緑茶)
You can’t visit Japan without trying its famous green tea. Whether it’s freshly brewed sencha or a delicate gyokuro, green tea is a crucial part of Japanese dining culture. Enjoy it hot or iced alongside your favorite Japanese dishes.
11. Kirin Frozen Beer (キリンフローズンビール)
For those looking for a twist on the classic beer, Kirin Frozen Beer offers a unique experience. Topped with a layer of frozen foam, it’s both a visual and taste sensation. The cold foam keeps the beer chilled, making it a refreshing drink for hot days.
12. Happoshu (発泡酒)
Often referred to as “low-malt beer,” happoshu is a cheaper alternative to regular beer in Japan. With a lighter taste and lower price point, it’s a popular choice for budget-conscious drinkers who still want to enjoy a crisp beverage.
13. Chuhai (チューハイ)
Chuhai, a refreshing cocktail made from shochu and flavored soda, is an excellent option for those who enjoy a fruity kick. With flavors ranging from lemon to peach and beyond, this drink is a summertime favorite that’s easy to sip while enjoying street food.
14. Jinjja (ジンジャーエール)
Japanese ginger ale, known as jinjja, has a distinctively spicy flavor that sets it apart from its Western counterparts. Often served as a mixer or enjoyed on its own, it’s a delightful way to experience the zing of ginger while staying refreshed.
15. Kombucha (コンブチャ)
Last but not least is kombucha, the fermented tea drink that has gained popularity worldwide. In Japan, it’s often made with unique flavors like yuzu or matcha, adding a local twist to this probiotic-packed beverage. Sip on it for a gut-friendly refreshment!
So, regardless of where you go be it Tokyo, Osaka, Nagasaki, or beyond you will not go thirsty in Japan.
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