In Japan, age matters. From the first day a person goes to school until he gets his first job and reaches retirement, age is connected greatly with their status. In Japan, 20 is when a person is considered to be an adult and is honored in a special celebration known as ?Seijin no Hi?. So, does it mean this age is also the legal drinking age in Japan?
The Drinking Age in Japan
For those who are from countries where drinking starts at the 18 or even 16 like Spain and Italy, Japan?s age restrictions for drinking may be quite surprising. Yes, 20 years old is the legal age for drinking in Japan and one must have a valid ID.
When buying alcohol, showing your ID is required. Just like in other countries, one might be stopped for buying alcohol if they look too young ? an awkward situation but could be flattering for some!
The underage drinking law in the country made official in 1922. Most countries reduced their consumption of alcohol since WWII. Japan was able to increase it that they had to control it as early as 1922. Alcohol, generally, is huge in Japan. With it increasing on younger people as well.
?Drinking Culture in Japan
Japan is a great place for those who like drinking; one reason is that public drinking and intoxication are acceptable. So, to say that alcohol is a big part of their culture shouldn?t come as surprise.
However, this is not to say that you can drink uncontrollably and anyway you want while in Japan, learning some drinking etiquette goes a long way!
Kanpai!
There are some rituals that have you consider before getting the bottoms up. Don?t pour a drink for your own glass; a host or your friends have to do the honor and you must do the same thing in return! You?ll hear kanpai often, which means ?cheers? in Japanese.
Different from the countries in the west, going out to simply drink alcohol is not very common in Japan. Drinking usually comes with a meal or a light snack called orotsumami. Otsumami is normally served on a plate and made of beans, small rice crackers, or dried squid.
While the country?s national food is sake or rice wine, the most commonly ordered in bars is lager-beer. The most popular brands include Sapporo, Kirin, Asahi, and Suntory. They?re worth trying out!
Look out for brands that are cheaper ? many of them are not a real beer but a malt-flavored drink. While they may taste and look like cheap beer, they will not give you the same experience! When it comes to sake, going for a cheap part would be a great option?
Read more here: https://www.fortravelista.com/legal-drinking-age-in-japan/
