10 most popular, best Japanese beer review: Taste, flavor, and ratings

The best Japanese beer is more than just a drink, it is an experience that connects tradition, craftsmanship, and culture. From iconic lagers like Asahi Super Dry to unique craft ales such as Hitachino Nest, Japanese beer offers something for every palate. At Japan With Love, we celebrate this rich brewing heritage by bringing authentic Japanese products closer to beer enthusiasts worldwide.

Whether you are new to Japanese beer or already a fan, this guide reviews the most popular Japanese beer options with honest insights into taste, flavor, and ratings. By the end, you will know which top Japanese beer to try next.

>>> Recommended for you 

• Dícover Japanese chocolate: The sweetest treats to try from Japan
• Unique breakfast Japanese cereal flavors you can only find in Japan
• What makes kimbap vs sushi different? A comprehensive breakdown

1. Why Japanese beer is renowned worldwide

Japanese beer is respected across the globe for its smooth taste, attention to detail, and consistent quality. Unlike some heavier European styles, Japanese beers are designed to be crisp, refreshing, and suitable for a wide range of meals, making them a staple in both Japan and abroad.

1.1 History and development of Japanese beer

Beer first came to Japan in the late 19th century, influenced by German brewing traditions. Major breweries like Asahi, Sapporo, and Kirin quickly rose to prominence, setting the foundation for the Japanese beer culture we see today. Over time, regional brands such as Orion from Okinawa and innovative craft breweries expanded the scene.

1.2 Unique styles and flavors

What makes Japanese beer unique is its delicate balance. Whether it is the ultra-dry profile of Asahi Super Dry or the floral notes of premium malts from Suntory, Japanese brewers focus on harmony. They are known for creating beers that are not only refreshing but also versatile when paired with food.

1.3 Production process and quality

Brewers in Japan emphasize purity and precision. Ingredients like rice, barley, hops, and mineral-rich water are carefully selected. Modern technology ensures consistency, while traditional brewing techniques preserve authenticity. This combination results in beers that consistently rank among the top Japanese beer options worldwide.

2. Popular types of Japanese beer

Before diving into the reviews, it helps to understand the main types of beer you will encounter.

2.1 Japanese lager

Lagers are the most popular Japanese beer style, loved for their light, crisp character. Beers like Asahi Super Dry and Sapporo Premium fall into this category, making them perfect for everyday enjoyment.

2.2 Japanese pilsner

Pilsners are similar to lagers but often have a sharper hop finish. These are refreshing and ideal for parties or hot summer days.

2.3 Japanese ale and craft beer

Japan’s craft beer movement has exploded in recent years. Breweries experiment with bold flavors, fruits, and spices, offering creative options like Hitachino Nest or unique session ales.

2.4 Non-alcoholic Japanese beer

For those who prefer a healthier option or cannot consume alcohol, Japan produces high-quality non-alcoholic beers like Asahi Dry Zero and Suntory All Free. They replicate the taste and refreshment of regular beer without the alcohol content.

3. Most popular Japanese beer review: Taste, flavor, and ratings

Here is our curated list of the most popular Japanese beer brands, reviewed for taste, flavor, and ratings.

1. Amanoya Himemaru Japanese Rice Cracker
2. Shelly Senbei Rice Crackers
3. Kuriyama Befco Seto Shio Rice Crackers Shrimp Flavor
4. Amanoya Kabukiage Shrimp Rice Crackers
5. Toyosu Arare Japanese Rice Crackers
6. Yoshimi Hokkaido Cheese Rice Crackers
7. Seika Kameda Soy Sauce Senbei Rice Crackers
8. Kameda Seika Double Dipped Extra Spicy Senbei Rice Crackers
9. Kakitane Kitchen Assorted Rice Crackers
10. Kameda Seika Hai Hain Rice Crackers for Babies

3.1 Asahi Dry Zero Non Alcoholic Beer Zero Calorie

Asahi’s Dry Zero is one of the most recognized non-alcoholic beers in Japan. Despite being alcohol-free and calorie-free, it maintains a crisp and dry taste similar to the famous Asahi Super Dry. Perfect for health-conscious drinkers who still want the beer experience.

• Brand: Asahi
• Colour: Pale golden
• ABV: 0%
• Tasting notes: Dry, crisp, malty backbone
• Finish: Clean and refreshing
• Price: $2–$3 per can
• Rating: 4.5/5

3.2 Orion Breweries

Okinawa’s pride, Orion beer, is a light lager ideal for warm climates. It has a smooth mouthfeel and subtle sweetness, reflecting the tropical lifestyle of southern Japan.

• Brand: Orion
• Colour: Light golden
• ABV: 5%
• Tasting notes: Mildly sweet, slightly malty, soft hops
• Finish: Smooth and crisp
• Price: $3–$4 per bottle
• Rating: 4.3/5

3.3 Suntory All Free Zero Calorie Non Alcoholic Beer

Suntory’s All Free is another excellent alcohol-free option. It has zero sugar, zero calories, and no alcohol, making it one of the healthiest popular Japanese beer choices.

• Brand: Suntory
• Colour: Light amber
• ABV: 0%
• Tasting notes: Sweet malt, slight citrus hints
• Finish: Refreshing, smooth
• Price: $2–$3 per can
• Rating: 4.2/5

3.4 Sapporo Premium

Sapporo Premium is one of the oldest and most iconic beers from Japan. It has a crisp, dry taste and is widely available internationally, making it a go-to choice for many beer lovers.

• Brand: Sapporo
• Colour: Clear golden
• ABV: 4.9%
• Tasting notes: Clean malt, mild hops, slightly dry
• Finish: Smooth with a subtle bitterness
• Price: $4–$5 per can
• Rating: 4.6/5

3.5 Asahi Super Dry

Perhaps the most popular Japanese beer, Asahi Super Dry redefined the Japanese beer market with its “karakuchi” or dry flavor. It is crisp, light, and pairs perfectly with Japanese cuisine.

• Brand: Asahi
• Colour: Pale golden
• ABV: 5%
• Tasting notes: Dry malt, crisp hops
• Finish: Sharp and clean
• Price: $4–$5 per bottle
• Rating: 4.7/5

3.6 Kirin Ichiban

Kirin Ichiban stands out because it uses only the first press of the wort, giving it a refined taste. It is smooth, slightly malty, and a favorite among those who enjoy a well-balanced beer.

• Brand: Kirin
• Colour: Golden amber
• ABV: 5%
• Tasting notes: Rich malt, mild hops, balanced sweetness
• Finish: Clean and rounded
• Price: $4–$6 per bottle
• Rating: 4.6/5

3.7 Suntory The Premium Malts Beer

This premium lager delivers a rich, malty flavor with floral notes. It feels luxurious compared to regular lagers and is often enjoyed during special occasions.

• Brand: Suntory
• Colour: Deep golden
• ABV: 5.5%
• Tasting notes: Floral hops, smooth malt, full-bodied
• Finish: Long and refined
• Price: $5–$6 per bottle
• Rating: 4.7/5

3.8 Hitachino Nest Classic Ale

From Kiuchi Brewery, this craft beer is bold and creative. With its malty body and slightly spicy aroma, it appeals to craft beer enthusiasts looking for something beyond mainstream lagers.

• Brand: Hitachino Nest
• Colour: Amber brown
• ABV: 7%
• Tasting notes: Malty, caramel, mild spice
• Finish: Rich and slightly sweet
• Price: $6–$7 per bottle
• Rating: 4.5/5

3.9 Echigo Koshihikari

Japan’s first craft beer brewery, Echigo, produces this rice lager. It uses premium Koshihikari rice, offering a clean, slightly sweet flavor that feels authentically Japanese.

• Brand: Echigo
• Colour: Pale golden
• ABV: 5%
• Tasting notes: Crisp rice flavor, mild hops, subtle sweetness
• Finish: Smooth and refreshing
• Price: $5–$6 per bottle
• Rating: 4.4/5

3.10 Konomi Nante Kiitenaize SORRY Yuzu Session Ale

This craft beer stands out for its infusion of Japanese yuzu citrus. It is light, fruity, and refreshing, offering a unique take on traditional beer styles.

• Brand: Yo-Ho Brewing
• Colour: Light yellow
• ABV: 4.5%
• Tasting notes: Bright yuzu citrus, mild malt, light body
• Finish: Refreshing and fruity
• Price: $5–$6 per can
• Rating: 4.6/5

4. How to choose the right Japanese beer for any occasion?

Choosing the best Japanese beer depends on your taste and the event. If you like light flavors, go for lagers like Asahi Super Dry. For richer options, choose Suntory Premium Malts or Hitachino Nest Ale. Non-alcoholic beers are great for casual gatherings or health-conscious drinkers.

• Personal taste: Light lagers for refreshment, bold ales for depth, fruity craft beers for creativity.
• Occasion: Sapporo Premium for parties, Suntory Premium Malts for celebrations, Kirin Ichiban for dinner.
• Authenticity: Buy from reputable sources like Japan With Love to ensure freshness and quality.

Japanese beer offers something for everyone, from crisp lagers to bold craft ales. The best Japanese beer brands like Asahi, Sapporo, and Kirin dominate worldwide for good reason, but craft options like Hitachino Nest and Echigo bring creativity to the table. At Japan With Love, we believe the best Japanese beer is the one that fits your taste and occasion, delivering refreshment and cultural richness in every sip.

FAQs - People also ask about most popular Japanese beer

Yuzuki Tsukihana

Yuzuki Tsukihana is a Japanese beauty writer and researcher with over 8 years of experience in the skincare and cosmetics industry. She holds a Master of Science in Cosmetic Science from the University of Cincinnati (USA), where she specialized in skincare formulation, ingredient efficacy, and product safety.

View articles by Yuzuki Tsukihana