What we know about beer in Japan

Beer is a popular drink all over the world, and Japan is no exception. Its history in the country dates back to the time of the samurai, when European merchants introduced beer to the islands. Since then, beer has become widespread in the land of anime, and the country’s industry has grown significantly.

Beer was introduced to Japan by Dutch merchants in the 17th century. At that time, the drink was known as “bíiru” in Japanese and was brewed mainly in small local workshops. Beer became popular among foreigners living in the country, but it was not until the Meiji Restoration in 1868 that it began to be mass-produced in Japan.

After the Meiji Restoration, Japan began to modernize and open up to the world. Beer became a popular drink among the Japanese, and the country’s industry began to grow. In 1886, Japan’s first modern brewery, the world-famous Sapporo, was founded. Other major breweries, such as Asahi and Kirin, were also founded during this period.

During World War II, beer production in Japan declined due to shortages of raw materials. However, the sector recovered quickly. In the 1950s, beer became the most popular alcoholic beverage in Japan, and the country’s brewing industry became one of the largest on a global scale.

In Japanese culture, beer is a popular drink (understood as a product accessible to anyone) and is consumed in a variety of social situations. For example, beer is a common drink in izakayas, typical bars that also serve food. It is also consumed at festivals and sporting events, just like in the rest of the world.

In Japan, beer is often served in small glasses and sipped slowly as a display of moderate appetite. It is also common for Japanese people to make a toast before drinking, and even to use the occasion to give speeches.

Today, the country’s largest breweries are Asahi, Kirin, and Sapporo, but there are also many craft breweries in Japan producing unique, high-quality beers. The craft beer model began to gain popularity in the 1990s, reaching around 300 craft breweries today. Some of the distinctive styles they brew include:

• Yuzu Ale: light and refreshing, brewed with yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit.
• Sakura Ale: mashed with cherry blossoms, which give it a floral, sweet flavor.
• Matcha Beer: matcha tea is used, which gives a bitter, earthy flavor.
• Shiitake Stout: brewed with shiitake mushrooms, a type of Japanese fungus.

As for festivals, one of the largest is the Great Japan Beer Festival, held in several cities each year. There’s also the Keyaki Hiroba Beer Festival and Craft Beer Live. In any case, there’s no shortage of excuses to look east the next time you feel like trying a different beer.