Japan is one of the hottest tourist destinations for Americans, and for good reason. From the culture and history to the food and views, Japan has something to offer pretty much every visitor.
As a traveler heading to Japan, I wasn’t prepared for how big the beer culture has become. And it was a really pleasant surprise.
Beer is a huge part of daily culture, from izakayas to getting together with friends. You can find really good beer anywhere you go, and if you look hard enough, you can also find a fast-growing craft beer scene.
By no means should you travel to Japan just to drink beer, but if you’re planning a trip across the Pacific and want to find delicious beer, here are some spots (and beers) to check out.
Beer Spots in Tokyo
Odds are that if you’re visiting Japan, you’re traveling through Tokyo. The biggest city in the world has plenty to offer everyone, but let’s focus on spots to grab a beer.
Ginza is a famous district known for its shopping and proximity to Tokyo Station. But the best spot to stop for a beer is the Ginza Lion Beer Hall. Created in 1934, the beer hall has a rich history that’s showcased through photos inside the waiting area. Along with serving tons of great draft beer from around the world. Ginza Lion Beer Hall also has delicious barbecue, making it a great stop for lunch or afternoon snacks.
Another area you’re sure to stop in is Shibuya. Also known for its shopping (this is a theme in Japan), Shibuya has a young energy, vibrant nightlife, and chaotic quality that makes it fun and exciting. As you walk through the Scramble Crossing, you might stop by the Shibuya Parco building, which is full of fun stores. But the basement (aptly called Chaos Kitchen) is where you can find izakayas, including Beer Boy. Beer Boy serves local craft beer on tap, cans, and bottles, and craft breweries rotate through the spot. I had Teenage Brewing’s Asobi DDH DIPA, a style of beer I was not prepared to run into just two days into a Japan trip.
Further south in Yokohama, friends took us out for barbecue after a long day of sightseeing. It’s not a craft beer, but I did enjoy Suntory The Premium Malt’s, one of the main beers you can find throughout Japan. It’s worth noting that most beer in Japan is incredibly cheap compared to what most people are used to in the United States, and for the most part, the beer is crisp, light, and refreshing; perfect after a day of being a tourist.
Beer Spots in Kyoto
Kyoto isn’t large, especially in comparison to Tokyo and Osaka, but there are still plenty of spots to grab and enjoy some beer. Here were a few of my favorites.
Nishiki Market is a bustling outdoor market right in the heart of Kyoto, and it’s nonstop shopping and food. While most places serve cheap sake to complement yakitori, you can also find nice spots to relax and enjoy a cold Sapporo or Kirin Ichiban. There are also great ramen spots nearby, and Sapporo and ramen are a great pairing.
If you do stop by Nishiki Market, make a point to swing by Spring Valley Brewery. This craft brewery offers flights, seasonal taps, and a few solid flagship beers. Most of the people in Spring Valley were tourists (it is right by Nishiki Market), so the experience didn’t feel as authentic as Beer Boy. Still, this was a great spot to spend an hour and get off my feet, and I enjoyed their 496 Original Lager.
Beer Spots in Osaka
The final stop on our tour was Osaka, and what a great way to end a trip! Aside from grabbing beers at izakayas in Kyobashi, my favorite spot to grab a beer was in Dotonbori with the famous Asahi Dry sign in the background. Most places around there sell Asahi Dry, so you should have no trouble creating the perfect a beer-lover’s Instagram post.
For craft beer, I stopped by a local spot and grabbed beer from Minoh Beer. This is another local craft brewery, based in northern Osaka in Minoh. If you don’t want to go out of your way to visit their main spot, you should be able to find their beer in bottles or on draft elsewhere in the city. I had the Pilsner and Pale Ale, both of which were excellent.
Enjoying the Beer Culture in Japan
It’s hard to explain beer culture in Japan without experiencing it yourself, but I would describe it as social, food-driven, and relaxed. Japanese people are hard-working, and a beer at an izakaya can be the ultimate way to relax after a long day. The macro beers, from Asahi to Sapporo, all work perfectly with Japanese cuisine, and they’re light enough so you can continue walking around and enjoying your day. The craft beer scene is growing, and I know I had more craft beer than I mentioned here. With a little bit of looking, you’re sure to find great craft beer throughout Tokyo and Osaka.
With any luck, this post will be updated in the near future, because I’d love to go back.
- Beer in Japan: What to Drink In Tokyo, Osaka, and Beyond - May 6, 2026
- What Is a Rice Lager? - May 5, 2026
- Best Beer for Pizza: An Easy Pairing Guide - May 2, 2026
