For fans of Japanese dramas or anime, you may have noticed that Japanese people seem to love drinking alcohol.
Compared to some other countries, Japanese people appear to drink alcohol more frequently, especially office workers who often head straight to bars after work.
This phenomenon is not just something portrayed on television. So, why do Japanese people love alcohol so much? Let’s dive into Japan’s drinking culture.
Social Needs and Relieving Work Pressure
In Japan, there is a tradition called nomikai, which refers to drinking parties held by employees after work.
These events are an essential ritual for workers to relieve stress caused by workplace pressures while also strengthening relationships with colleagues.
A popular Japanese phrase, “とりあえずビール!” or “Toriaezu biru!”, means “A beer first!” This phrase reflects the habit of Japanese people starting their meals with alcohol to quickly feel its relaxing effects.
This might be difficult for people from other cultures to imagine. Through alcohol, Japanese people can create a relaxed atmosphere to build stronger bonds with coworkers or clients.
Alcohol can be used for relaxation, building business relationships, and even negotiating deals. For this reason, nomikai plays a significant and positive role in Japan.
This tradition shows that drinking is not just a form of entertainment but an integral ritual in Japanese social and professional life.
The Culture of Sake Production
Drinking culture in Japan is deeply connected to the long history of brewing beer and the tradition of jizake (local sake) in each region.
As an agrarian country, Japan has diverse climates and water qualities in each area, allowing every region to produce its unique sake.
For example, sake from Niigata is known for its light and smooth taste, while sake from Hiroshima is famous for its rich flavor.
The diversity of these local drinks not only attracts locals but also serves as an essential tourism draw.
Many tourists specifically visit sake breweries in various parts of Japan to taste local sake.
Ultimately, this strengthens the pride and love of Japanese people for their drinking culture.
Read:
6 Most Popular Japanese Beers in 2024
Do Japanese People Drink More Than Westerners?
Although many people say that Japanese people love to drink alcohol, this may actually be because people in other countries are less accustomed to drinking.
According to data from the Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare in Japan, the alcohol consumption rate among Japanese people is not as high as in Western countries.
For instance, compared to Russia or the UK, the average alcohol consumption in Japan is relatively lower.
However, this does not mean Japan is free from alcohol-related issues. Surveys show that a significant number of Japanese people consume alcohol excessively.
Millions of people each year face alcohol-related illnesses. Moreover, the number of alcohol dependency cases in Japan is also quite significant.
These issues have prompted the Japanese government to tighten monitoring of alcohol consumption, including finding ways to prevent minors from consuming alcoholic beverages.
Conclusion
In short, Japanese people’s love for alcohol is influenced by various factors, such as cultural traditions, social needs, and stress relief.
Although compared to other countries, alcohol-related issues in Japan are relatively lighter.
Drinking culture and habits continue to evolve with changes in time and the social environment.
Today, more and more young Japanese people are starting to say “no” to the drinking culture after work.
Perhaps in the future, Japan, known for its “love of drinking” stereotype, will become more diverse!
