Have you ever tried a Japanese draft beer? When people think of Japanese beer, names like Asahi Super Dry or Sapporo usually come to mind. But there is a “hidden gem” that has recently made a massive comeback: Asahi Nama Beer, nicknamed “Maruefu.”
Whether you are a traveler or a resident, understanding the unique “three tiers” of Japanese beer will help you find the perfect brew!
The Evolution of Japanese Beer: From 3 Tiers to 1
Until recently, Japan had a unique three-tier system for beer based on taxes. However, as of 2026, this system has been simplified into one standard tax rate.
If you visit a Japanese supermarket today, you might see these terms:
- Standard Beer (Bi-ru): High malt content. Prices have recently become more affordable due to tax cuts! This includes the famous Asahi Maruefu.
- Happoshu (Low-Malt Beer): Historically taxed lower than beer. While most beer-like beverages are now taxed the same, “Happoshu” still exists as a category for refreshing, light-tasting drinks.
- The Former “Third Beer” (Shin-Janru): You may have heard of “The Third Beer”—extremely cheap beverages made with non-malt ingredients. As of late 2023, this category was merged into Happoshu, and by October 2026, the tax difference will disappear completely.
Why this matters for you: Many popular brands that used to be “Third Beer” (like Kinmugi) are now upgrading their recipes to become “Real Beer.” It’s a great era for beer lovers in Japan—better quality for a better price!
The “Big Four” and the Restaurant Experience
Japan’s beer market is dominated by four giants: Asahi, Kirin, Sapporo, and Suntory. Most Japanese restaurants (and traditional Izakayas) usually have a contract with just one of these companies. This means the restaurant will have only one specific brand on tap. Half the fun of dining out is checking the sign outside to see which “tap” they serve!
While most Japanese beers are famous for being “Kire” (sharp/dry) and “Koku” (rich), Maruefu offers something a little different.
The Legend of Asahi Nama beer マルエフ
For many years, Maruefu was known as the “Phantom Beer” of Japan. To understand why, we have to look at its famous sibling: Asahi Super Dry.
- The Rivalry: Asahi Super Dry is the No. 1 selling beer in Japan. It changed the industry forever with its “Karakuchi” (dry) style. It is famous for being extra sharp, crisp, and having a powerful “kick” in the throat (what Japanese people call nodogoshi). The aftertaste is incredibly clean and disappears instantly.
- The Disappearance: When Super Dry was released in 1987, it became such an explosive hit that Asahi decided to focus all its energy there. As a result, canned Maruefu was discontinued. For decades, it survived only as a “hidden menu” item on tap in a few select, lucky restaurants.
- The History: Originally released in 1986 (just one year before Super Dry), Maruefu has a completely different personality. It is known for its mild, smooth, and slightly sweet finish. * The Comeback: After years of fans begging for its return, Asahi finally brought back canned Maruefu in 2021!
Why try it? Unlike the sharp “sting” of Super Dry, Maruefu is gentle. It is the perfect beer for a relaxing evening at your hotel or home. It pairs beautifully with home-cooked meals and doesn’t overpower your palate.
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Don’t Miss: Maruefu “KURO”(Black Beer)
If you prefer a darker brew, look for Maruefu KURO (マルエフ黒). “Kuro” means black in Japanese, and this beer has a legendary history of its own.
- Taste: You’ll notice a deeply roasted aroma followed by a surprisingly creamy mouthfeel. The bitterness is perfectly balanced, leading into an aftertaste with a gentle hint of sweetness. It’s rich, yet incredibly easy to drink. It’s the kind of black beer that even people who don’t usually like stouts will enjoy.
- A Pioneer: First released in 1982, it was Japan’s first canned stout-style beer. It’s famous for its roasted aroma and a smooth, slightly sweet finish.
- The Disappearance: In 2015, Asahi decided to focus on a different dark beer—”Asahi Super Dry Dry Black.” Sadly, this meant that Maruefu KURO was discontinued, to the disappointment of many fans.
- The Return: But the story didn’t end there! Thanks to the passionate voices of fans who missed its unique, mellow taste, canned Maruefu KURO finally made its grand return in 2022.
Now, you can enjoy both the classic gold and the rich black Maruefu side-by-side!
Pro Tip: Create Your Own “Half & Half”
Since you can now find both the Gold and Black cans, you should try the popular Japanese way to drink them: The Half & Half.
- How to do it: Simply mix the classic Maruefu (Gold) and Maruefu KURO (Black) in a glass.
- The Result: You get the crisp, mellow refreshment of the Gold beer combined with the creamy, roasted depth of the Black beer.
- Find your balance: While a 50/50 split is the standard, some fans prefer a “One-Third Black” mix for just a touch of cocoa aroma.
It’s like being your own bartender! Experimenting with the ratio is a fun way to enjoy a night in.
Summary: Your Beer Adventure in Japan
Japanese Izakayas stay open late—sometimes until 4:00 AM! But you don’t have to go out to enjoy a premium experience.
If you are traveling in Japan, head to a local convenience store (Konbini) or supermarket. Grab a few different cans, find your favorite brand, and make sure Maruefu is one of them. It offers a “gentle” side of Japanese brewing that you won’t soon forget.
Please remember to drink responsibly!
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