Top 5 Regional Craft Beer Brands in Japan
The appeal of craft beer lies in its bold, distinctive flavors and deep connection to local culture. In Japan, the craft beer scene has expanded rapidly in recent years, with unique regional breweries popping up across the country, capturing the interest of beer lovers and travelers alike.
In this article, we spotlight five standout Japanese craft beer brands, carefully selected based on expert reviews, craft beer publications, e-commerce rankings, and user ratings on platforms like Untappd. These picks are not only delicious but also make great travel experiences or gifts. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just getting started, you're bound to find a new favorite.
Ranking of Japan's Top Regional Craft Beer Brands
- Hitachino Nest Beer (Ibaraki – Kiuchi Brewery)
- Yona Yona Ale (Nagano – Yoho Brewing)
- Swan Lake Beer (Niigata – Hyouko Yashiki no Mori Brewery)
- Kyoto Brewing Co. (Kyoto – Kyoto City)
- Aqula Beer (Akita – Akita Aqula Beer)
1. Hitachino Nest Beer (Ibaraki – Kiuchi Brewery)
Source: Hitachino Nest Beer Homepage
About the Brand
Hitachino Nest Beer was launched in 1996 by Kiuchi Brewery, a well-established sake producer founded in 1823. Drawing on centuries of fermentation expertise, the brewery applied its know-how to create a line of craft beers that quickly gained recognition.
Signature Style
The flagship White Ale is a Belgian-style wheat beer brewed with orange peel and coriander seeds. It’s known for its bright aroma and light body, with a refined spiced finish. With consistent ratings near 4.0 on Untappd, it’s one of the most popular craft beers to come out of Asia.
When to Enjoy It
This beer is popular as a gift, thanks to its charming owl label design. It pairs especially well with Japanese dishes, particularly seafood, and works well for light pairings.
Hitachino Nest is among the most internationally recognized Japanese craft beer brands.
- White Ale frequently ranks high on Untappd, Rakuten, and MyBest.
- MyBest: “A crisp, refreshing choice for those who like a clean finish.”
- Rakuten: Regularly ranks among the top beers in the mail-order category (2024–2025).
- TasteAtlas: Featured in “Best Japanese Beer Producers.”
2. Yona Yona Ale (Nagano – Yoho Brewing)
Source: Yona Yona Ale Homepage
About the Brand
Yoho Brewing, based in Karuizawa, Nagano, was founded in 1997 as a craft beer–focused brewery. With the motto “Flavor in beer, happiness in life,” they’ve played a key role in shaping Japan’s modern craft beer scene through creativity and innovation.
Signature Style
Yona Yona Ale is an American Pale Ale with citrus-forward hops that evoke grapefruit and orange, balanced by a mild malt backbone. It’s widely seen as a go-to introductory IPA in Japan and has a loyal fan base of regular subscribers.
When to Enjoy It
Perfect for casual dinners at home, barbecues, or outdoor gatherings. Its canned packaging makes it convenient and ideal for group toasts.
It is a modern classic that helped popularize IPAs in Japan.
- Known for its fruity hop aroma and dry finish.
- Untappd: High ratings with a large number of reviews.
- Rakuten: Gift sets are a consistent bestseller.
- MyBest: “Easy-drinking and pairs well with food.”
Yoho Brewing also offers online events and subscriptions that help deepen fan engagement.
3. Swan Lake Beer (Niigata – Hyouko Yashiki no Mori Brewery)
Source: Swan Lake Beer Homepage
About the Brand
Swan Lake Beer is brewed in Agano City, Niigata, using pure water selected as one of Japan’s “100 Best Waters” by the Ministry of the Environment. Since its founding in 1997, the brewery has grown alongside its local community.
Signature Style
The award-winning Porter stands out with its roasted malt aroma and rich, chocolate-like depth. It has earned multiple gold medals at international beer competitions. Their winter-only Barleywine also has a strong following.
When to Enjoy It
Its rich flavor pairs well with hearty meals like roast beef and stews. Great for cozy dinners or as a thoughtful gift for beer lovers.
Known for full-bodied styles like Porter and IPA, Swan Lake Beer is a frequent award-winner.
- Rakuten: Highly ranked for Porters and gift sets.
- Japan Beer Cup / BeerFes: Won several awards, including a gold medal.
- Strong presence in both retail and restaurants.
Ideal for winter pairings and fans who appreciate depth and complexity in their beer.
4. Kyoto Brewing Co. (Kyoto – Kyoto City)
Source: Kyoto Brewing Homepage
About the Brand
Established in 2015 in Kyoto’s Minami Ward, Kyoto Brewing Co. was founded by three friends from the U.S., Canada, and Wales. Their mission? To brew modern, experimental beers in one of Japan’s most traditional cities.
Signature Style
They specialize in Belgian-inspired styles, often using saison yeast. Ichigo Ichie (“Once in a Lifetime”) is a standout, praised for its balance of bright aroma and subtle tartness. Poetic beer names and minimalist labels add to the charm.
When to Enjoy It
Frequently served at local Kyoto restaurants and perfect for tourists looking for something authentic and modern. Their beautifully designed bottles also make great gifts.
A rising brewery known for blending East and West in both flavor and philosophy.
- Belgian-style saisons earn high marks.
- Label design and poetic beer names attract a loyal fan base.
- Notable brews: Ichigo Ichie, Kuroshio no Gotoku (“Like the Black Current”).
Tours and limited-edition releases are available for visitors to the brewery.
5. Aqula Beer (Akita – Akita Aqula Beer)
Source: Aqula Beer Homepage
About the Brand
Aqula Beer was founded in 1997 in Akita City’s historic Kawabata district. The brewery is housed in a renovated storehouse and focuses on brewing beers that reflect Akita’s local culture and northern climate.
Signature Style
Their experimental styles incorporate local ingredients like rice and lactic acid, with standout beers such as Namahage IPA. The lineup tends to lean toward higher ABV, suited to the region’s colder weather.
When to Enjoy It
Pairs especially well with Akita specialties like kiritanpo (grilled rice shaped into cylinders) and iburigakko (smoked pickled daikon radish). Often chosen as a souvenir or as a regional craft beer alternative to sake.
A local favorite with a strong regional identity and bold flavors.
- Namahage IPA receives consistently high ratings on Untappd.
- Deep ties to regional tourism and events.
- Known for its creative use of ingredients such as rice and lactic acid.
Craft beer fans appreciate its unique approach and connection to local culture. Gaining buzz on social media, especially for limited releases.
How to Best Enjoy Craft Beer
● Storage Tips
Store craft beer in a cool, dark place. For hop-heavy styles like IPAs and white ales, refrigeration is ideal to preserve the aroma. Avoid direct sunlight, and even if the beer is within its best-by date, it’s best consumed sooner rather than later.
● Choosing the Right Glass
The shape of your glass can enhance both aroma and flavor. Use a tulip glass for IPAs, a pint glass for porters and stouts, and a goblet for Belgian-style beers.
● Pairing with Food
Craft beer pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Citrusy IPAs pair well with grilled or spicy food, while darker beers complement chocolate and hearty stews. Try a tasting flight to explore multiple pairings in one sitting.
Conclusion
Craft beer is more than just a beverage; it’s an experience. The five breweries featured here stand out not just for their flavor but for the stories they tell and the regions they represent. Each bottle is a “liquid story” filled with character and craftsmanship.
Whether you're enjoying it at home or giving it as a gift, Japanese craft beer offers a unique take shaped by local culture and creativity. Start with just one bottle, and let the label lead you into the story behind it.
