Learn all about beer in Japan, from its rich history and cultural significance to popular brewers

While Japan’s alcohol exports are dominated by sake (nihonshu) and whisky, the place of beer in the Japanese social and economic landscape shouldn’t be overlooked. Consider these beer facts:

• Beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage in the country.
• Japan is the seventh leading consumer of beer in the world (2019)
• About 98% of Japan’s beer marketplace is dominated by four domestic brewers (2016)

Keep reading to learn about the history of beer in Japan and the players in the beer landscape. If you’re inspired to explore more, we’ve also included lists of the most popular beers and experiences ranging from museums to beer gardens. 

History of Beer in Japan

Beer was part of Japan’s modernization at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries. While the Dutch introduced beer to Japan at Dejima (Nagasaki) during the 17th century, the first beers produced domestically were in Yokohama in 1859. 

Unlike its working-class associations in parts of the West, beer was an elite beverage in Japan and one that promoted a sense of newness and modernity. Beer advertisements in the early 1900s reflected these ideals, too, with Japanese consumers dressed in Western clothing set against symbols of modern life, such as railroad stations and dance halls. 

Beer remained a luxury until the high economic growth period of the postwar decades. As corporate culture developed alongside the rising GDP, drinking became part and parcel of work-based socializing. Beer became the most consumed alcohol in 1959, with consumption peaking in 1994, a period that covers Japan’s economic rise to number two in the world. In fact, the connection between beer and work culture was so pronounced that companies could write off much of their work-related beer consumption as tax-deductible between 1954 and 1982. 

Although craft beers slowly began to enter the marketplace in the 21st century, the big four brewers still account for nearly all beers consumed nationwide. Where microbreweries lack market share, they make up for it by producing quality, award-winning brews. 

Popular Brewers

Japan has several top brewers that you’ll find everywhere from your local conbini (convenience store) and supermarket to izakaya (Japanese-style pub) and restaurants.

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