whisky shop in Hakata

If you are looking for stores selling Japanese whiskey in Hakata, it is available at JOYLAB Fukuoka Tenjin store.

Please inquire in advance about availability before coming to the store if you want to make sure of these.

There is translation tool available at the store, so don’t worry if you don’t speak Japanese.

We look forward to seeing you at our stores.

JOYLAB Fukuoka Tenjin store

Access Map

Five types of alcohol that you should try in Hakata

Here are five types of alcohol that you should try when drinking in Hakata.

1. Hakata’s Own Mugi Shochu

Mugi shochu, a distilled spirit made from barley, is a staple in Kyushu’s drinking culture, and Hakata has its share of local distilleries producing this beloved beverage. Characterized by its smooth, clean taste with a subtle sweetness, mugi shochu can be enjoyed in various ways—neat, on the rocks, mixed with water, or as part of a cocktail. Trying mugi shochu in Hakata provides insight into the traditional distilling techniques of Kyushu, showcasing the craftsmanship behind this versatile spirit. A visit to a local izakaya or shochu bar, such as those found in the Nakasu area, is an excellent opportunity to sample different varieties and brands, each with its unique flavor profile.

2. Hakata Sake Pairings

Sake, Japan’s famed rice wine, is a perfect companion to Hakata’s gourmet offerings, from sashimi to yakitori. The district’s eateries and sake bars pride themselves on their selection of local and national sakes, carefully chosen to complement the flavors of their dishes. Tasting sake in Hakata allows visitors to explore the wide range of flavors and styles this beverage offers, from dry and crisp to sweet and full-bodied. For an immersive experience, consider a guided tasting at a sake bar, where experts can introduce you to the nuances of sake brewing and pairing.

3. Umeshu from Hakata

Umeshu, a sweet plum liqueur, is a popular drink throughout Japan, and Hakata offers some unique variations worth trying. Locally produced umeshu often incorporates plums from the surrounding regions of Kyushu, resulting in a drink that is both sweet and tart, with a deep, complex flavor. Enjoying umeshu on the rocks or as a cocktail mixer in a Hakata bar or restaurant is a delightful way to experience this traditional Japanese liqueur. Look for artisanal brands that use organic plums or those aged in unique casks for an extra layer of flavor.

4. Craft Beer with a Hakata Twist

In recent years, Hakata has seen a surge in craft beer popularity, with local breweries experimenting with unique ingredients and brewing techniques. These craft beers often incorporate local flavors, such as yuzu, matcha, or even Hakata’s renowned mentaiko (spicy cod roe), offering a taste experience that is distinctly Hakata. Visiting a local craft beer pub, such as those in the vibrant Tenjin area, provides an opportunity to sample a range of innovative beers that push the boundaries of traditional brewing while celebrating local tastes.

5. Hakata’s Traditional Tea-Infused Cocktails

While not strictly an alcoholic beverage, Hakata’s tea culture has inspired a range of innovative tea-infused cocktails that combine the delicate flavors of Japanese tea with spirits. These cocktails, which might feature ingredients such as matcha, sencha, or hojicha, offer a refreshing and aromatic drinking experience, perfect for those looking for something lighter. Bars and restaurants in Hakata are increasingly showcasing these creative concoctions, providing a modern twist on Japan’s tea tradition.

Exploring Hakata’s drinking culture through these five beverages—mugi shochu, sake, umeshu, craft beer, and tea-infused cocktails—offers a glimpse into the district’s rich culinary heritage and its contemporary innovations. Each drink tells a story of tradition, craftsmanship, and local flavor, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the diverse and vibrant tapestry of Hakata’s gastronomy. Whether you’re a connoisseur of Japanese spirits or simply looking to enjoy a casual drink, Hakata’s array of alcoholic offerings promises an enriching and delightful tasting experience.