A Spectrum of Japanese Drinks
Japan's beverage landscape is as rich and varied as its culture. Whether you seek the calming ritual of tea, the refreshing fizz of a soft drink, or the complex notes of its famous sake, there's a drink to suit every palate and occasion.
Green Teas (Ryokucha)
The cornerstone of Japanese tea culture, green teas offer a range of subtle flavors and health benefits.
Matcha (抹茶)
Finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves, used in traditional tea ceremonies.
Sencha (煎茶)
The most popular tea in Japan, steamed and rolled to create a refreshing, slightly astringent taste.
Hojicha (ほうじ茶)
Roasted green tea, giving it a nutty, slightly caramelized flavor and a reddish-brown hue.
Sake (日本酒)
Brewed from rice, sake is Japan's national drink, celebrated for its diverse flavor profiles and craftsmanship.
Junmai (純米)
Made purely from rice, water, and koji (a mold used for fermentation), often richer and fuller-bodied.
Ginjo (吟醸)
Made with rice milled to at least 60% of its original size, resulting in a more aromatic and refined sake.
Other Traditional & Modern Drinks
Beyond tea and sake, Japan offers a delightful array of other beverages.
Umeshu (梅酒)
A sweet and sour liqueur made by steeping ume plums in sake or shochu.
Ramune (ラムネ)
A popular carbonated soft drink known for its distinctive bottle sealed with a marble.
Amazake (甘酒)
A non-alcoholic or low-alcoholic sweet drink made from fermented rice.