Living in Japan, you eventually notice how much people value having a voice in society. Local elections, neighborhood meetings, and well-run ward offices all reflect a long history of public participation. However, people had to fight for those rights. Itagaki Taisuke was one of the figures who helped make that possible. This beer offers a friendly way to discover his story.
A pale lager for a champion of people’s rights
Meiji Restoration by Taisuke Itagaki Beer comes from Nippon Craft Beer’s themed collection in Tokyo. The brewery connects modern Japanese beer with important figures from the country’s history. This release forms part of a themed series associated with Japan’s Meiji-era political leaders.
The beer is a Japanese craft pale lager with 4.5% ABV. The available product information does not specify its recipe, so we will avoid making claims about its hops, malt, or brewing techniques.
Instead, the name tells the most interesting story. Itagaki Taisuke (1837–1919) was a politician and leading figure in Japan’s Freedom and People’s Rights Movement. He campaigned for greater public participation in government and helped advance the development of political parties and parliamentary democracy.
His life covered a remarkable period of change. Japan moved from the old feudal order towards a modern political system, and Itagaki played an important role in that transformation.
The historical theme gives this beer an identity beyond its style. Also, the product name uses the Western name order, Taisuke Itagaki, while Japanese historical references commonly use Itagaki Taisuke. Therefore, you may encounter both versions.
A pale lager makes a fitting choice for this theme. Its approachable style suits relaxed drinking, while the label offers an interesting conversation starter about Japan’s political history.
How Meiji Restoration by Taisuke Itagaki Beer fits Japanese drinking culture
In Japan, a drinking session often begins with kanpai (乾杯), meaning “cheers.” Friends and colleagues raise their glasses, make eye contact, and celebrate the moment together. The expression also shares linguistic roots with Chinese gānbēi and Korean geonbae, reflecting a familiar East Asian drinking tradition.
A light pale lager also fits naturally into a nomikai, the traditional after-work gathering where colleagues relax over food and drinks. For example, yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) makes an excellent pairing. Its savoury flavours complement the refreshing character of a light lager.
Meanwhile, edamame (young soybeans seasoned with salt) often arrives as an opening snack. As the evening continues, otsumami takes centre stage. These small dishes include pickled vegetables, fried snacks, dried seafood, and other savoury bites.
During spring, hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) offers another opportunity to enjoy Japanese beer. Friends gather beneath flowering cherry trees, bringing food, sake, and beer to share. A historically themed bottle adds an interesting talking point to the picnic.
How to enjoy this Japanese craft beer at home
For the best experience, serve Meiji Restoration by Taisuke Itagaki Beer cold. You can pour it into a glass or enjoy it straight from the bottle. Either way, take a moment to read the label and explore the historical figure behind the name.
For an easy Japanese snack pairing, try cheese chikuwa from 7-Eleven. This fish-paste product has a soft texture and savoury flavour that works well with a light lager.
Alternatively, serve the beer with tonkatsu, Japan’s popular breaded pork cutlet. The crisp coating and rich pork flavour create a satisfying contrast with a refreshing beer.
This style works particularly well from spring through early autumn. During warmer months, a cold, approachable lager makes an easy choice for casual meals and gatherings.
At a Tokyo izakaya, craft beer bottles can cost ¥800 or more. However, buying by the case from Omori Mart can bring the per-bottle cost down considerably.
Get Meiji Restoration by Taisuke Itagaki Beer delivered in Japan
You can find Meiji Restoration by Taisuke Itagaki Beer at Omori Mart. The store sells this themed Japanese craft beer by the case in 330ml bottles.
Shopping with Omori Mart also offers convenient payment and delivery options:
- Free shipping on orders over ¥15,000.
- Pay at FamilyMart, 7-Eleven, or Lawson.
- Bank transfer and card payments are also available.
- Nationwide delivery across Japan.
If you are searching for a Japanese craft beer with a historical connection, this release offers something different from an ordinary pale lager.
[Shop Meiji Restoration by Taisuke Itagaki Beer →]
https://omorimart.com/product/meiji-restoration-by-taisuke-itagaki-beer-330ml-x-24-bottles/
Kanpai (乾杯) is a familiar expression that brings people together over drinks. This time, raise your glass to Itagaki Taisuke, a man who fought for greater public participation in government. Enjoy the beer, discover the history, and celebrate the people who helped make their voices heard.
No products in the cart.