Japan is renowned for its rich culture and world-class beverages, from sake and whiskey to unique local brews. If you’re visiting Japan and want to enjoy its alcohol scene responsibly, here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the laws, find the best spots, and even take a taste of Japan home with you.
Contents
Legal Drinking Age and Rules
The legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old, and you may be asked to show ID when purchasing alcohol or entering bars. Drinking in public is not prohibited, and you’ll often see locals enjoying a beer in parks during festivals or cherry blossom season. However, excessive public intoxication is frowned upon.
Where to Buy Alcohol
- Convenience Stores: Open 24/7, offering a variety of beers, sake, whiskey, and premixed cocktails.
- Supermarkets: Great for finding local and imported options at reasonable prices.
- Specialty Shops: Sake breweries and liquor stores provide premium choices and often offer tastings.
Where to Drink
- Izakayas: Traditional Japanese pubs where you can pair drinks with delicious small plates like yakitori or sashimi.
- Bars: From trendy rooftop bars in Tokyo to hidden gems in Kyoto, there’s something for every taste.
- Kakuuchi: The practice of drinking in public spaces, such as on the corner of a liquor store.
- Outdoor Spaces: Parks, riverbanks, or even train stations (yes, really!) are common spots for casual drinking.
Pro Tip: Visit a standing bar (tachinomiya) for an authentic, budget-friendly experience!
How Much Does It Cost?
- A can of beer: ¥200-¥300
- A cup of sake: ¥400-¥800
- A cocktail at a bar: ¥800-¥1,500
- A premium bottle of Japanese whiskey: ¥10,000+
Duty-Free and Bringing Alcohol Home
When purchasing alcohol to bring back:
- Duty-Free: Many international airports in Japan have duty-free shops with a wide selection of sake and whiskey.
- Customs Limits: Most countries allow 1-3 liters of alcohol per person. Check your country’s regulations before buying.
- Packing Tip: Ensure bottles are securely wrapped to avoid breakage during flights.
Top Recommendations
- Sake Brewery Tours: Learn about traditional sake-making in towns like Takayama or Fushimi.
- Whiskey Distilleries: Visit Suntory’s Yamazaki Distillery near Kyoto for an unforgettable tasting.
- Craft Beer Bars: Japan’s craft beer scene is booming—don’t miss bars in Tokyo or Osaka.
Final Tips for Enjoying Alcohol in Japan
- Drink responsibly and hydrate.
- Be respectful of local customs and quiet hours, especially in residential areas.
- Don’t drink and drive—the laws are strict, and public transport is excellent!
With these tips in hand, you’re ready to savor Japan’s unique and unforgettable drinking culture. Cheers—or as they say in Japan, Kanpai!
Let’s go to Izakaya and a Japanese Snack-bar with a fun guide!!
You can enjoy many kinds of drinks at Izakaya and drinking culture Snack Bars, beloved by many but you can’t enter without a guide. You can enjoy communication with the owner and other customers, as well as singing karaoke, allowing for a relaxing time.
Most snack bars have a policy of refusing entry to foreigners. However, with a tour, you’ll have a guide, so you can enter with peace of mind.
When visiting Japan, don’t just check off the tourist spots –
dive into local experiences for an unforgettable journey!
Once you experience it, you’ll be captivated too! The charm of snack bars.
New encounters with people! The camaraderie of singing at a snack bar! Conversations with the mama-san!
