Beyond Big Beer: Discover Japan’s Hidden Breweries!

Do you like Japanese beer like Asahi and Sapporo? Then you should try beer from Japan’s microbreweries! Today, I want to tell you about my favorite brewery in Yamanashi.

Small breweries became legal in Japan in 1994. The first craft beer was made in 1995. In 2000, there were less than 200 craft breweries in Japan. But from 2015, the number grew quickly. Now in 2024, there are about 800 craft breweries! With so many breweries, it might be hard to choose. Here’s a tip: look for places with good water.

My recommendation is Mangosteen Brewery in Hokuto City, Yamanashi. This brewery used to be a camera tripod factory. From the brewery, you can see the beautiful Southern Alps mountains. And, they make delicious beer every day.

You must try their signature beer called “New Colony.” It has a rich taste but is also refreshing. You’ll want to keep drinking it! Every time I drink this beer, I can’t help but say “Oishii!” (delicious!)

Next to the brewery, there is a Chinese restaurant where you can enjoy beer with good food. The food there is amazing too.

There is one problem – you can only get there by car. This means someone in your group can’t drink. But you don’t have to feel bad for them! You can buy beer at the brewery and enjoy it later at your hotel.

Remember, Japan has many delicious beers besides Asahi and Sapporo. If you find a brewery in a place with good water, please try their beer. You might discover your new favorite!