Non Alcoholic Beer in Japan: What’s It All About?

Non-alcoholic beer is becoming increasingly popular in Japan. It offers a refreshing and healthier alternative to traditional beer for wellness-oriented customers. Let’s look at five non-alcoholic options in Japan for any occasion.

What is non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer is a drink made to copy the taste and experience of alcoholic beer but with less or no alcohol content. In most countries, non-alcoholic beers contain 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) or less.

Brewers typically make these beers using traditional brewing methods, adding an extra step to remove or limit alcohol. They can achieve this by carefully controlling fermentation or using a special vacuum to separate substances.

Non-alcoholic beers typically have fewer calories than regular beer, making them a better option in situations where consuming alcohol is inappropriate. Advancements in brewing technology ensure that non-alcoholic beers keep flavors similar to traditional beer despite their significantly lower or less alcohol content. In Japan, non-alcoholic beer is rapidly becoming a popular beverage choice. 

This reflects Japan’s growing interest in diverse and innovative drink options. The rise in healthy lifestyles and strict drunk-driving laws has also contributed to the increasing appeal of non-alcoholic beers as a safer alternative. Keep reading to learn about the different non-alcoholic beer options in Japan! 

Suntory All-Free Beer

Suntory All-Free is a revolutionary non-alcoholic beer that blends tradition with modern creativity. It offers a refreshing, guilt-free alternative to traditional lagers.

Famous for its crisp and light taste, this zero-calorie beverage contains no alcohol, sugar, or artificial flavors, making it an excellent option for wellness-focused drinkers. It is made from 100% malt, 100% aroma hop, and 100% natural water. 

Its delicate malt flavor and bubbles mimic the beer experience, perfect for relaxing moments or social gatherings. What sets Suntory All-Free apart is its innovative variation, Karada wo Omou (thinking of the body), which features rosehip oil.

This ingredient may help with promoting weight loss and skin health. This makes it perfect for those seeking a drink that offers beer enjoyment while supporting health-conscious lifestyles and wellness goals.

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Asahi Zero

Asahi Zero is a bold, non-alcoholic beer that redefines the drinking experience. It delivers classic beer flavors in a healthier, alcohol-free form. Artisans create this beer with a smooth flavor and balanced bitterness to deliver the signature Asahi beer experience in a lighter, nutrient-rich way. They make it from natural water, barley malt, corn grits, hops, corn starch, and natural flavors.

What sets Asahi apart is its commitment to innovation. The brand utilizes advanced brewing technology to ensure the same carbonation and rich aroma as traditional beers.

Asahi Zero offers a range of variations, including the popular Asahi Dry Zero, which boasts zero alcohol, zero sugar, and low calories. The Asahi Super Dry Zero further enhances this experience by copying the sharp, dry finish that beer lovers crave.

Kirin Green’s Free

Kirin Green’s Free is a non-alcoholic beer that provides a sharp and revitalizing taste while focusing on nutritious, natural ingredients. Made with a blend of carefully selected malt and hops, it offers a clean, smooth flavor with no added calories or sugar in typical alcoholic beers. This alcohol-free brew is ideal for those looking for a lighter alternative. It is made with fermented ingredients and has a slightly savory taste.

The drink is designed to complement a variety of foods, making it an excellent choice for meals or casual social occasions. Beyond its great taste, Kirin Green’s Free is part of a bigger effort to be more sustainable. This includes using food grown in Japan and supporting local food production. This drink is the perfect choice if you want to support sustainable practices!

Non-Aru Kibun (Cocktail)

Many non-alcoholic options are available if you don’t drink beer, including Non-Aru Kibun, an alcohol-free cocktail, and non-alcoholic wines. Developed by Suntory, Non-Aru Kibun has become a popular choice in Japan, offering the flavors of classic cocktails without any alcohol. One standout variety is the Non-Aru Kibun Lemon Sour, which delivers a tangy, citrusy lemon flavor for those who enjoy a crisp, energizing drink.

This non-alcoholic cocktail is made with authentic fruit flavors and provides a balanced, rejuvenating taste for casual social gatherings or relaxing moments. Non-Aru Kibun recreates the experience of traditional cocktails, offering the flavor without any of the effects of alcohol. With its unique flavor profiles and refreshing nature, Non-Aru Kibun is the perfect alcohol-free alternative for those seeking a flavorful, energizing drink.

Non-Alcoholic Wine

Non-alcoholic wine has become increasingly popular in Japan, offering a sophisticated alternative for those who want the taste of wine without alcohol. Suntory, a leading beverage brand, offers a variety of non-alcoholic wines, including sparkling options.

These beverages provide traditional wine’s bright, bubbly experience, ideal for celebrations or casual gatherings. Suntory’s alcohol-free wines are crafted to deliver the same rich flavor as regular wines, without alcohol or calories.

Choya, known for its ume plum wines, also offers non-alcoholic choices, such as their Non-Alcoholic Umeshu. This drink captures the natural sweetness and fruity flavor of traditional ume plum wine without the alcohol.

It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy the sour taste of ume plums but prefer to avoid alcohol. Suntory and Choya’s non-alcoholic wines provide flavorful, enjoyable alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages in Japan.

Why should I try non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer offers a refreshing, healthier alternative to traditional beer, providing great taste without any alcohol content. Brands like Suntory, Asahi, and Kirin offer various non-alcoholic options to suit different preferences. Whether you’re after a guilt-free option like Suntory All-Free or a more robust flavor like Asahi Zero, these beers support an active and healthy lifestyle

Additionally, drinks like Non-Aru Kibun and non-alcoholic wines from Suntory and Choya offer choices for those avoiding alcohol. In Japan, non-alcoholic beverages are rapidly gaining popularity, meeting the needs of diverse consumers. Which non-alcoholic drink do you want to try? Let us know in the comments below!