Popular Japanese Beverages to Try at Japan’s Local Festivals

Japan is renowned for its vibrant festivals, known as "matsuri," that showcase rich cultural traditions, stunning performances, and, of course, an array of delicious local beverages. From refreshing drinks to traditional sakes, each festival offers a unique taste of Japan's diverse beverage culture. Here are some popular Japanese beverages to try at local festivals.

Sake
Sake, or rice wine, is perhaps the most famous Japanese beverage. It is brewed using polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold, resulting in various flavors and aromas. At festivals, you can often find sake served warm or chilled, with special festival brews available for tasting. Sampling regional sakés can introduce you to different flavor profiles, from the sweet and fruity to the bold and earthy.

Shōchū
Shōchū is a distilled spirit that can be made from various ingredients, including barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. It usually has a higher alcohol content than sake, making it a popular choice among festival-goers. Try it straight, on the rocks, or mixed in a cocktail. At local festivals, shōchū may be featured in unique local concoctions, showcasing the creativity of the region.

Umeshu
Umeshu is a sweet plum wine made from steeping ume plums in shōchū or sake, resulting in a fruity and refreshing drink. This beverage is particularly enjoyable during the summer months and is often served chilled. Many festivals have their variations of umeshu, providing a delightful taste of the season.

Matcha Latte
Matcha, finely ground green tea powder, has gained global popularity, and it's often featured in festival stalls as a matcha latte. This creamy beverage is a perfect blend of rich matcha flavor with frothy milk, making it a delicious choice for tea lovers. Some festivals even offer matcha drinks infused with seasonal flavors, enhancing the experience.

Tokyo Lemonade
A refreshing beverage choice, Tokyo lemonade is a vibrant and tangy drink made with fresh lemons, soda, and a dash of sweetness. It is perfect for cooling down during hot festival days. Many local vendors may sell variations infused with local fruits, providing a unique twist to this popular drink.

Chuhai
Chuhai is a popular alcoholic beverage in Japan, typically made by mixing shōchū with soda and flavored syrups. It's available in a wide variety of flavors, from lemon and grapefruit to more adventurous options like peach and lychee. Chuhai is a favorite among young festival-goers, offering a refreshing and fruity experience.

Ramune
This iconic Japanese soda is known for its unique bottle design, featuring a marble that acts as a seal. When the marble is pushed down, it creates a fizzy drink that comes in various flavors such as lemon-lime, strawberry, and melon. Ramune is a nostalgic treat often found at festivals, making it a fun beverage to enjoy while taking in the festive atmosphere.

Boko-Boko Tea
Boko-boko tea is a lesser-known but delightful beverage made from steeping roasted barley. This caffeine-free tea has a nutty flavor and is refreshing served cold, making it a great choice for summer festivals. It is commonly enjoyed by those seeking a herbal alternative to traditional tea.

Whenever you find yourself at a local festival in Japan, don't miss the opportunity to experience these delightful beverages. Each drink not only quenches your thirst but also offers insight into Japan’s rich culinary traditions. Cheers to discovering the flavors of Japan at its enchanting local festivals!