How is European beer different from Japanese beer?
I'd like to know what characteristics European beer has.
We will answer your questions!
What you'll learn in this article
Characteristics of European beer
Differences from Japanese beer
Beer styles from around the world
There are some important characteristics and differences between Japanese beer and European beer in general. Below, we will explain them in detail while comparing the two.
Author: Myako
I live in Europe and whenever I try beer from different regions I'm amazed at the differences.
Some beers have a distinctive, rich flavor, while others are light and refreshing, and I discovered the joy of choosing a beer to go with my meal.
Since that experience, I have become even more fascinated with the depth of beer.
TOC
Characteristics of European and Japanese beers
Style and versatility
European beer
Diversity Across Europe there are so many styles: lagers, ales, stouts, sour beers, fruit beers, Trappist beers, etc. Each country and region has its own style, giving you plenty of choice.
Fermentation Technology There is a good balance between high-temperature fermented ales and low-temperature fermented lagers, and the different brewing methods result in a wide variety of flavors.
Japanese Beer
Lager is mainstream The Japanese beer market is mainly made up of lagers (especially pilsners), which are characterized by their refreshing taste. Although ales and craft beers are on the rise, the overall proportion of lagers is high.
Influenced Styles Japanese beer has been influenced by German beer culture, and generally speaking, people want beer that has a light, refreshing taste.
Rich in flavour European beers offer a variety of flavors, including fruit, spices, herbs, and malty aromas. Belgian beers in particular are known for their complex flavors.
Variations of sour and sweet tastes There are many styles that emphasize sourness or sweetness, such as sour beer and fruit beer, and the range of flavors is wide.
Japanese Beer
Refreshing and easy to drink Japanese lagers are generally refreshing, with a mild bitterness and aroma, making them very easy to drink. For this reason, they are said to go well with food.
Light flavor Japanese beer is characterized by its light taste, and a smooth taste is especially desired during the hot seasons.
Long history and tradition Many European countries have brewing traditions that go back generations and adhere to strict production standards, notably Germany's "Beer Purity Law" and Belgium's Trappist beers.
Craft beer culture In recent years, the number of craft beers produced by small, independent breweries has increased, and innovative styles are being created one after another.
Japanese Beer
Modern manufacturing process Beer brewing in Japan has a relatively short history, having learned the techniques from Germany during the Meiji period, which is why modern brewing methods have been adopted.
The rise of craft beer Craft beer is becoming more popular in Japan, with small breweries producing a wide variety of styles, but lagers still dominate the overall market.
Social culture Beer is often at the heart of social life, with beer halls and pubs a popular gathering place, and beer festivals are popular, with each region offering its own unique style.
Pairing Food pairing is important, and choosing the right beer to go with the food is crucial. In particular, the pairing of regional cuisine with local beer holds deep cultural significance.
Japanese Beer
Enjoy with a meal In Japan, great importance is placed on the compatibility of beer with Japanese food in particular. Japanese cuisine is characterized by delicate flavors that make the most of the taste of the ingredients, and beer also plays a role in bringing out the flavor.
Izakaya culture Casual drinking parties at izakayas and other establishments are common, and beer plays an important role in parties and gatherings.
European beer forms a very deep world with its diversity, rich flavor, traditional brewing techniques, and sociable culture. On the other hand, Japanese beer is mainly specialized in lagers, and is characterized by a style that pursues a refreshing taste and easy drinking. Both types of beer are rooted in their respective cultures and food habits, and each has its own merits. For beer lovers, enjoying the differences between the two will be a very interesting experience.
Yoko, a European beer lover
Author: Myako
English 
Japanese