The beer story in Japan was something of a mixed bag. After discovering a thriving and incredible craft beer scene in Korea, I had high hopes going in. While Japan did not disappoint in terms of the craft beer scene, it was not on the same scale as I found in Korea. Japanese craft breweries are certainly found all over, but they are not as ubiquitous as in Korea. Further, most of the Japanese craft breweries I found stuck mainly with pilsners and lagers, whereas the Koreans were brewing a wide variety (more similar to what you’ll find in the US or New Zealand).
That said, the Japanese craft beer scene was not bad in the least. More accurately, it just didn’t make me say “wow.” Probably doesn’t help that I was wowed by so much else about the country.
Beyond craft beer though, the domestic “everyday” beers in Japan are probably the best I’ve had. Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Yebisu – most of these names are already familiar in the US, and for good reason. These are all excellent, readily available everywhere, and go amazingly well with Japanese cuisine.
Finally, Japan did not disappoint with places for “beers with a view.” We weren’t there for beach season, but enjoyed brews in front of centuries-old temples, on busy city streets, at the Tokyo Dome, and looking up at Mt. Fuji. They even broke out special sakura-themed cans of Asahi to kick-off cherry blossom season!
Overall I wouldn’t rank Japanese beer at #1, nor would I say the beer is a reason you need to visit Japan. Most of their best domestic beers can already be found throughout the world. Fortunately for the country, though, I can think of about 100+ reasons you should visit Japan anyways – and definitely enjoy some beers when you go!
