If you’re wandering through a Japanese convenience store, you might notice a colourful array of canned drinks with bold lettering, fruit illustrations, and surprisingly high alcohol percentages. These are chūhai, short for “shōchū highball,” and they’ve become one of Japan’s most popular alcoholic beverages—particularly for those looking for something a little sweeter, lighter, or cheaper than beer.
Originally made by mixing shōchū (a traditional Japanese distilled spirit) with soda water and lemon juice, chūhai has evolved into a mass-produced canned drink with a wide range of fruity flavours—from classic lemon to exotic lychee, ume plum, grape, mango, and more. While traditional chūhai was made with actual shōchū, many commercial versions now use vodka or neutral spirits instead, which helps keep production costs low and the flavours clean.
These drinks typically range from 3% to 9% ABV, with strong chūhai variants often hitting the upper end of that scale. They’re affordable, easy to drink, and found just about everywhere—from supermarkets and konbini to vending machines and izakaya menus.
Chūhai appeals to a wide range of drinkers. Some people prefer it over beer for its lighter body and fruity taste, while others appreciate the variety of flavours and the fact that many versions are low in sugar or calories. The stronger versions (like Suntory’s Strong Zero line) are especially popular with budget-conscious drinkers thanks to their high alcohol content at a low price.
Like happōshu and third-tier beers, chūhai also benefits from lower alcohol taxes, especially if made with non-traditional ingredients, keeping them competitive on store shelves. This has led to a boom in brands and flavours, with companies like Suntory, Kirin, Asahi, and Takara releasing seasonal and limited-edition versions year-round.
If you’re visiting Japan, the easiest place to grab a chūhai is your local convenience store or supermarket. They’re sold chilled in the drinks section right next to the beer, and you’ll usually find cans from 350ml to 500ml. Izakayas often have them on tap, and you’ll sometimes see small bars dedicated to lemon sours, which are effectively a type of chūhai.
For travellers, chūhai is a fun and affordable way to try something distinctly Japanese without needing an acquired taste for sake or shōchū. It’s also great for picnics, hanami (cherry blossom viewing), or a quick refreshment on a hot day.
