The Best Japanese Beverages for Beginners

Exploring the world of Japanese beverages can be an exciting adventure, especially for beginners looking to dive into unique flavors and cultural experiences. From traditional teas to innovative soft drinks, Japan offers a diverse array of beverages that are sure to please any palate. Here are some of the best Japanese beverages that newcomers should definitely try.

1. Green Tea (Ryokucha)

Green tea is perhaps the most iconic Japanese beverage. Known for its numerous health benefits, this tea comes in various forms such as Sencha, Matcha, and Genmaicha. Sencha is the most common type and has a fresh, grassy flavor. Matcha, a powdered form of green tea, is used in traditional tea ceremonies and is also popular for its versatility in drinks and desserts. Genmaicha, a unique blend of green tea and roasted brown rice, offers a nutty flavor that many beginners find appealing.

2. Barley Tea (Mugicha)

Mugicha is a caffeine-free herbal tea made from roasted barley. Served cold in the summer or warm in the winter, it has a toasty, slightly nutty flavor. It’s a popular choice among families in Japan and is often enjoyed as a refreshing drink with meals.

3. Ramune Soda

Ramune is a classic Japanese carbonated soft drink famous for its unique bottle design and various fruity flavors. The iconic marble inside the bottle acts as a stopper, creating a fun drinking experience. Popular flavors include lemon-lime, strawberry, and melon, making it a delightful treat for beginners seeking something sweet and effervescent.

4. Sake

Sake, or Japanese rice wine, is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. While it may seem intimidating for beginners, there are many types to explore, ranging from sweet to dry. Junmai is a good starting point for newcomers, as it offers a rich flavor without any added alcohol. Sake can be enjoyed warm or cold, depending on personal preference.

5. Shochu

Shochu is another popular Japanese spirit that should not be overlooked. It is distilled from a variety of ingredients, including barley, sweet potatoes, and rice. With a higher alcohol content than sake, shochu can be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or diluted with water or soda. Beginners might find sweet potato shochu to be an interesting option due to its unique flavor profile.

6. Japanese Lemonade (Shikuwasa Soda)

This invigorating drink is made from the shikuwasa fruit, a small citrus native to Okinawa. The light, tangy flavor of shikuwasa makes it a refreshing choice, especially during hot months. Many brands offer shikuwasa soda, which combines the fruit’s natural tartness with a fizzy twist, appealing to those looking for a non-alcoholic option.

7. Matcha Latte

The matcha latte has gained popularity worldwide, and it originates from Japan. Combining matcha powder with steamed milk (dairy or plant-based), this beverage strikes a balance between earthy and creamy flavors. It’s a perfect choice for coffee lovers wanting to experiment with something new and vibrant.

8. Calpis (Calpico)

Calpis is a unique, slightly tangy soft drink with a creamy texture. Made from fermented milk and flavored with fruit, Calpis can be enjoyed plain or diluted with water or soda. Its mild flavor and smooth consistency make it an excellent introduction to Japanese beverages.

9. Sweetened Bean Drinks

For adventurous beginners, sweetened bean drinks, such as azuki bean drinks, are worth trying. These drinks are made from adzuki beans and typically sweetened with sugar. They can be served chilled or warm and offer a unique, subtle sweetness that contrasts with more conventional beverages.

10. Yuzu Tea

Yuzu tea is a delightful citrus-based drink made from yuzu fruit, a tart and fragrant Japanese citrus. It can be enjoyed hot or cold and is often blended with honey or sugar for sweetness. This drink not only offers a refreshing taste but also provides a comforting warmth during colder months.

With such a wide variety of flavors and styles, Japanese beverages are an exciting way to explore the culture while enjoying new tastes. Whether you prefer something hot or cold, sweet or tangy, there is a Japanese drink out there to suit your preferences. Don't hesitate to try these drinks and expand your beverage palate — your journey into Japanese flavors awaits!