We all love a good can of cola every now and then, and while you can still get Coca-Cola and Pepsi in Japan, there’s so much more to explore!
1. Rice Cola
Easily the most unique and possibly the best tasting of Japan’s unique cola varieties is this “rice cola” drink exclusively available at Kura Sushi.
I don’t know how they managed to make rice work well with cola, but this drink is so incredibly refreshing and offers a thicker and creamier take on the iconic carbonated drink without stepping over the line of “weird” or “nasty.”
2. Pepsi Nama (Raw)
I’ve talked in detail about this unique drink Pepsi Nama in a previous article, translated in English as “Pepsi Raw” and offering “less sugar syrup” ingredients and more “raw” ingredients in its makeup.
As a non-Japanese speaker, you need to look out for the unique design of this can with the “生” character as there is no English text to indicate the type of Pepsi it is.
3. Asahi Craft Cola
Another exclusive Japanese drink is the Craft Cola brought to you by one of Japan’s major manufacturers of beverages Asahi Breweries.
This drink has a more traditional and rawer taste in a sense as though it’s been through less processing, offering a beer-like finish with more malty bitterness.
4. Pepsi Refresh Shot
I’ve often talked about the Pepsi Refresh Shot being one of my favorite drinks in Japan, particularly as someone who likes the concept of canned coffee.
Available only at vending machines, the Pepsi Refresh Shot offers a concentrated shot of Pepsi with a higher caffeine content that gives you a powerful and delicious kick when you need it!
5. Mets Black Cola
Last but not least is the no-calorie Mets Black Cola featuring a stylish red and black can and a taste that resembles a full-sugar can of Coke!
Personally, I had no idea this drink had 0 calories until I read the fine print, a great testimony to how authentic the taste is as it leaves no traces of a “diet soda” of any kind.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are traveling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveler’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!
