Japan

Japan has one of the most sophisticated craft beer scenes in Asia — and arguably the world. The Japanese craft brewing movement took root in the mid-1990s following deregulation, and has since produced a remarkable range of styles from clean, technically precise lagers to wild fermentation experiments and hyper-local ingredient-driven ales. Tokyo alone supports hundreds of craft beer venues, with particularly strong concentrations in Shibuya, Shimokitazawa, Nakameguro and Koenji. Osaka, Kyoto, Sapporo and Nagano all have their own thriving scenes.

Standout breweries to seek out include Yoho Brewing, Baird Beer, Minoh Beer, Coedo, Shiga Kogen and Yo-Ho's Thursday — but Japan's craft sector is deep enough that every city offers local gems you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're hunting down a rare hazy IPA in Harajuku, sipping farmhouse ale in Kyoto or visiting a regional craft brewery in Hokkaido, this directory is your guide to great craft beer bars, taprooms and bottle shops across Japan.