When you are visiting another country you want to try everything that country has to offer, from unique foods and beverages to activities and events. Japan has one of the richest food cultures in the world, with a variety of sushi, rice, noodle, meat, and vegetable dishes to try. They also have their own array of non and alcoholic beverages that visitors should at least sample. Here are ten refreshing Japanese drinks that should be experienced while in the country.
Ramune soda
This carbonated beverage, which comes in traditional flavors like strawberry and peach as well as unique flavors like kimchi and wasabi, has become very popular over the last few decades because of it’s regular appearance in anime and manga. The Ramune bottle is made of glass and has a marble in the neck, which makes drinking from it a fun challenge.
Japan only Coca-Cola
American brands often make special flavors for consumers in other countries. In Japan, Coca-Cola offers Peach Coke as well as Coca-Cola Clear, a colorless soda that tastes like Diet Coke with a hint of lemon.
Pepsi J-Cola
Not to be outdone by its top competitor, Pepsi also has specialty options in other countries. In Japan you can get J-Cola Midnight, a black currant flavored soda “to be drunk after dark”.
Pocari sweat
This sports drink is packed with nutrients and electrolytes to help replenish the body after a good workout. It’s also popular for those with hangovers or those suffering from the flu.
Melon soda
One of the most popular types of soft drink in Japan, melon soda is available in cans and bottles as well as at restaurants and fast food outlets. It also tends to be featured heavily in anime, manga, and live action programs from Japan.
Sakura tea
Tea is everywhere in Japan, in hundreds of different flavors and styles. Sakura tea is a special blend made from cherry blossoms that is often served at special events like weddings and festivals.
Mitsuya cider
This non-alcoholic cider is another example of a soft drink you can only get in Japan. With it’s sweet flavor that tastes like a cross between ginger ale and Sprite, it can be a very refreshing option on a warm and/or busy day.
Qoo
This fruit drink is made by American brand Coca-Cola/Minute Maid. It comes in flavors such as grape, orange, and apple, and is popular among young people and children.
Umeshu plum wine
This grown up drink is alcoholic, so not for children. It’s a sweet take on sake that is great chilled and served with dessert.
Momoshu
Another sweet alcoholic beverage from Japan, this drink has lower alcohol content than some other drinks so those that partake of it don’t run the risk of getting too drunk too fast.
