What Is The Drinking Age In Japan? 8 Japanese Laws

What Is the Drinking Age in Japan?

In Japan, the legal drinking age is 20 years old, a rule that applies to both the consumption and sale of alcohol. This age limit is strictly enforced, and understanding it is crucial for anyone planning to enjoy Japan's vibrant drinking culture.

The Legal Drinking Age

The legal age for buying and consuming alcoholic beverages in Japan is 20 years old. This applies to all types of alcohol, including beer, wine, sake, and spirits. Despite changes in the Civil Code that lowered the age of adulthood to 18, the drinking age remains at 20.

Identification Requirements

When purchasing alcohol or entering a bar or club, you will typically need to show identification. The most commonly accepted forms of identification are a passport or residence card. It is advisable to carry your passport with you, especially if you plan on having a night out, as it may be requested by vendors or establishments.

Drinking in Public

Japanese laws on drinking in public are relatively lax. It is legal to consume alcohol in public places such as parks, train stations, and even on trains, provided you do not cause a disturbance. However, social norms may vary, and drinking in certain public areas like city buses or subways is generally frowned upon.

Purchasing Alcohol

Alcohol can be purchased almost anywhere in Japan, including convenience stores, supermarkets, and vending machines. There are no restrictions based on the time of day or the day of the week. When buying alcohol at a convenience store, you may encounter a prompt on the screen asking you to confirm that you are old enough to drink, but this is usually handled by the store clerk.

Drinking Etiquette

Japanese drinking culture is rich and complex, with several etiquette rules to keep in mind:

• Refusing More Alcohol: It is socially acceptable to say no to more alcohol if you feel uncomfortable. Leaving a small amount in your glass can also signal that you do not want a refill.
• Pouring for Others: It is considered impolite to pour your own drink. Instead, offer to pour for others, which is part of the social bonding in Japanese drinking culture.
• Respectful Consumption: While drinking is allowed in many public places, it is a sign of disrespect to drink alcohol on the grounds of temples or shrines unless it is part of a festival.

Types of Alcohol

Japan offers a wide variety of alcoholic beverages:

• Beer: Japan has a well-established beer culture, with major producers like Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Suntory. Craft beer is also gaining popularity.
• Sake: Known as nihonshu, sake is a traditional Japanese rice wine that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
• Shochu: A distilled beverage made from various ingredients like rice, wheat, or sweet potatoes, shochu is typically around 25% alcohol and is often served on the rocks or in mixed drinks.
• Chu-Hai: Pre-mixed canned drinks that come in multiple flavors and strengths, chu-hai is a popular choice for those looking for a convenient drink.

Rules for Foreigners

The drinking age of 20 applies equally to foreigners. When traveling to Japan, it is essential to follow local laws and regulations. Foreigners should be prepared to show their passport as identification when purchasing alcohol or entering licensed premises.

Additional Tips

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking the equivalent amount of water as alcohol can help avoid a hangover the next day.
• Be Aware of Strong Drinks: Some pre-mixed drinks, especially the "strong zero" tall boys, can be particularly potent and should be consumed with caution.
• Plan Your Night: Set an alarm to ensure you catch the last train home, as public transportation options can be limited late at night.

By understanding these laws and cultural norms, you can fully enjoy Japan's unique drinking culture while respecting local customs and regulations.