Japan
Tokyo Food Wine beer spirits

Tokyo Local Beverages Guide

Whether you're a serious connoisseur or a casual drinker, Tokyo is a city that offers an impressive selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Below is a concise list of local drinks to try during your visit.

Alcoholic Beverages

Sake

  • Sake, also known as Nihonshu, is a traditional Japanese rice wine that is central to the country's culture and cuisine. There are countless varieties of Sake to discover, ranging from sweet to dry, and light to robust.

Shochu

  • Shochu is a Japanese distilled beverage. It is versatile and can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, mixed with water or soda, or used in cocktails. Its flavor profile varies greatly depending on the base ingredient, which can range from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice.

Whisky

  • Japanese whisky has gained world recognition for its high quality. Though it's not unique to Tokyo, experiencing a fine Japanese whisky in the city's classiest bars is definitely a memorable experience.

Beer

  • Japan has a booming craft beer scene, and Tokyo is at its heart. You can find a wide array of local craft beers throughout the city. Also, don't miss out tasting Japan's popular beer brands including Asahi, Kirin, and Sapporo.

Non-Alcoholic Beverages

Green Tea

  • Known as 'ocha' in Japan, green tea is a quintessential part of Japanese culture. The finest quality tea leaves are often served in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies.

Soba-Cha

  • This is a type of Japanese roasted buckwheat tea. The drink has a unique nutty flavor and is caffeine-free, making it a great after-meal choice.

Amazake

  • Amazake is a traditional sweet and creamy beverage made from fermented rice. It is low in alcohol and can also be found in a non-alcoholic version.

Calpis

  • An iconic beverage in Japan, Calpis has a slightly milky, slightly acidic flavor that's sweetened. The drink is often served diluted with water or milk, but it can also be used in cocktails.

This list offers a small taste of the variety of beverages you can find in Tokyo. Whether it's taking part in a traditional tea ceremony or visiting one of the city's countless izakaya (Japanese tavern), there's a drink to suit all tastes and experiences.