The Best In Japanese Mineral Water – Drink Cleanly Now

Japanese tap water is renowned for its safety and quality, but for those who prefer bottled mineral water, Japan offers a diverse range of options. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the best in Japanese mineral water.

Places to Buy Mineral Water

Mineral water in Japan is widely available at various locations, making it easy to stay hydrated. You can purchase bottled mineral water at:

• Supermarkets: Major supermarkets like AEON, Ito-Yokado, and others typically carry a variety of mineral water brands.
• Convenience Stores: Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson often stock multiple brands of mineral water.
• Vending Machines: Many vending machines across Japan, especially in urban areas, offer mineral water alongside other beverages.

Types of Mineral Water in Japan

1. Regular Mineral Water

Regular mineral water in Japan is primarily soft water, meaning it contains less than 120 mg of magnesium per liter. This soft water is known for its smooth texture and ease of drinking. Some popular brands include:

• Suntory Natural Mineral Water: Sourced from various locations such as the Minami Alps, Okudaisen, and Aso. These waters are known for their neutral taste and are widely available.
• I LOHAS Natural Water: This brand, offered by Coca Cola Japan, sources its water from seven different sites across Japan. The hardness varies between 31 and 71.1 mg depending on the source.

2. Sparkling Water

For those who prefer a bit of fizz, sparkling water is also widely available:

• Wilkinson and Suntory are popular brands that offer carbonated mineral water. Look for the label that states "炭酸" (tansan) or "sparkling water" in English.
• Suntory Minami Alps Sparkling: Known for its strong carbonation, this water is recommended for those seeking an invigorating sparkling flavor.

3. Flavored and Aroma-Infused Water

Some mineral waters in Japan come with added flavors or aromas:

• Flavored Varieties: These waters can contain citrus fragrances, fruity aromas, or even yogurt flavors. They are slightly more expensive than regular mineral water and can be identified by pictures of fruit on the label.
• Caution: Be careful when selecting water from vending machines or convenience stores, as flavored varieties can be easily mistaken for plain mineral water.

High Mineral Content Options

For those seeking mineral water with higher mineral content, options are limited but available:

• Foreign Brands: Brands like Evian, Gerolsteiner, and Rosbacher are available in some convenience stores and online. These brands offer higher mineral content compared to most Japanese mineral waters.
• Contrex: This French brand is known for its high mineral content and can be found by the case on Amazon Japan or at some specialty stores.

Regional Varieties

Japanese mineral water often varies by region, reflecting the diverse water sources across the country:

• Suntory's Regional Waters: Suntory offers waters sourced from different regions, such as the Minami Alps, Okudaisen, and Aso. Each has its unique characteristics and is sold in different regions.
• FamilyMart's Kirishima Water: This brand offers hard water with a relatively high concentration of silica, beneficial for health and skincare. However, be aware that FamilyMart's water can come from different sources, so check the label.

Cost and Availability

Mineral water in Japan is generally affordable and widely available:

• Price Range: Bottled mineral water typically costs between 100 to 150 yen for a standard bottle, with flavored varieties slightly more expensive.
• Suggested Retail Prices: For example, Suntory Natural Mineral Water costs around 130 yen, while I LOHAS Natural Water costs about 120 yen.

By understanding these options and characteristics, you can make informed choices about the best mineral water for your needs while in Japan.