Whisky shop in Tokyo

If you are looking for stores selling Japanese whiskey in Tokyo, it is available at JOYLAB Roppongi 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 Roppongi store

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Five types of alcohol that you should try in Tokyo

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

1. Sake: Japan’s Signature Rice Wine

Sake, also known as nihonshu, is an iconic Japanese beverage made from fermented rice. It holds a special place in Japanese culture and cuisine, with its production and consumption steeped in tradition. In Tokyo, you can find an extensive selection of sake, from dry to sweet, served chilled, at room temperature, or warmed, depending on the season and type of sake. For a truly memorable experience, visit a specialty sake bar or a brewery tour where experts can guide you through the nuances of different sake varieties, regions, and brewing techniques. Sake pairs exquisitely with a wide range of Japanese dishes, enhancing the flavors and making for a harmonious dining experience.

2. Japanese Whisky: A World-Renowned Craft

Japanese whisky has garnered international acclaim for its quality and craftsmanship, rivaling that of traditional whisky-producing countries. Tokyo boasts several bars specializing in Japanese whisky, where enthusiasts can explore the depth and breadth of Japan’s whisky offerings. These establishments often feature rare and aged bottles alongside newer, innovative blends. The smoothness and complexity of Japanese whisky make it suitable for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as part of meticulously crafted cocktails. Whisky bars in Tokyo often exude a sophisticated ambiance, making them ideal spots for a leisurely evening of appreciation and conversation.

3. Shochu: A Versatile Distilled Spirit

Shochu is a distilled beverage that can be made from various ingredients, including barley, sweet potatoes, rice, and buckwheat. It is less well-known internationally than sake but is immensely popular in Japan due to its versatility and wide range of flavors. In Tokyo, you can find shochu served in multiple ways: neat, on the rocks, diluted with water, or mixed in cocktails. Some izakayas and bars specialize in shochu, offering selections that showcase the spirit’s diversity. Shochu’s relatively low alcohol content compared to other spirits makes it a popular choice for a more extended dining and drinking experience.

4. Umeshu: Sweet Plum Liqueur

Umeshu is a sweet and fragrant plum liqueur made by steeping unripe ume plums in alcohol and sugar. It boasts a unique balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a delightful aperitif or dessert drink. Umeshu can be enjoyed in various ways: straight, on the rocks, mixed with soda for a refreshing spritz, or as part of a cocktail. Many bars in Tokyo offer a selection of homemade and artisanal umeshu, highlighting the craftsmanship involved in creating this beloved liqueur. Its fruit-forward profile and versatility make umeshu a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

5. Craft Beer: Tokyo’s Emerging Beer Scene

While sake and shochu may dominate traditional Japanese drinking culture, craft beer has seen a surge in popularity, with Tokyo at the forefront of this movement. The city’s craft beer scene is vibrant and diverse, featuring local microbreweries that experiment with various styles, from classic IPAs and stouts to unique brews infused with Japanese ingredients like yuzu, matcha, and sakura. Craft beer bars and breweries in Tokyo often offer tasting flights, allowing patrons to sample a range of beers and discover their favorites. The enthusiasm for craft beer is evident in the growing number of beer festivals and events held throughout the city.

Each of these beverages offers a window into the rich tapestry of Tokyo’s drinking culture, from the time-honored traditions of sake and shochu to the innovative spirit of craft beer and whisky. Exploring Tokyo’s bars, izakayas, and breweries provides not only the opportunity to taste these exquisite drinks but also to experience the warmth and hospitality that define Japanese dining and drinking culture. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a curious traveler, Tokyo’s drink scene promises a delightful and enriching journey through the flavors that make this city truly unique.