The Japanese Beer Guide begins with the country’s four major breweries: Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Suntory. These brands dominate the market with their crisp, refreshing lagers, perfect for pairing with Japanese dishes like sushi, yakitori, and ramen. Asahi Super Dry is the most widely recognized, celebrated for its clean, dry finish. Kirin Ichiban offers a maltier, fuller flavor, while Sapporo, Japan’s oldest beer brand, delivers a smooth, well-balanced taste. Suntory’s The Premium Malt’s is a favorite for those seeking a richer, more aromatic brew. These beers are easy to find at convenience stores, izakayas, and restaurants across the country.
In recent years, the Japanese Beer Guide has expanded to include a growing number of craft breweries offering unique and creative flavors. Notable names include Hitachino Nest Beer, famous for its white ale brewed with coriander and orange peel, and Yo-Ho Brewing, known for its “Yona Yona Ale,” a hoppy and flavorful pale ale. From Tokyo to rural regions like Nagano and Ibaraki, craft beer bars and taprooms are popping up, introducing new styles like yuzu IPAs, matcha stouts, and sakura-infused ales. This craft beer revolution has made Japan a top destination not only for traditional lagers but also for innovative brews that blend Japanese ingredients with global techniques.
