Anyone who has spent time around Tokyo universities will recognise Waseda’s red-brick buildings, the students streaming out of Takadanobaba Station, and the bookshops surrounding the campus. Cheap lunch counters also fill the streets nearby. However, fewer people know who inspired the university’s name or how one man’s ambition helped shape it. This beer carries his name on the label and offers a reason to discover his story.
A Pale Lager Inspired by a Japanese Prime Minister
Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer comes from Nippon Beer’s themed beer series in Japan. This Japanese pale lager contains 4.5% alcohol by volume (ABV). Although the product brief does not specify its recipe, its historical theme gives it a distinctive identity.
The name tells the real story. Okuma Shigenobu (1838–1922) founded Waseda University and served twice as prime minister of Japan. Few leaders of the Meiji era influenced both education and government so significantly. Moreover, his legacy continues through Waseda, where students study and build their futures today.
The beer celebrates that legacy through its label and name. Its pale lager style also makes it an approachable choice for casual drinking. For foreign residents, it offers a simple way to explore Japanese history through an everyday product.
How to Enjoy Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer in Japan
In Japan, a drinking session often begins with kanpai (乾杯), the familiar toast meaning “cheers.” Friends and colleagues raise their glasses together before taking the first sip. Interestingly, similar toasts appear in Chinese and Korean drinking culture, reflecting a shared regional tradition.
A light pale lager fits naturally into a nomikai, the after-work gathering where colleagues socialise over food and drinks. For example, you can pair it with yakitori, or grilled chicken skewers. The savoury flavours complement a refreshing lager.
Meanwhile, edamame (salted young soybeans) makes an easy starter. As the evening continues, otsumami—small snacks such as pickles, fried foods and dried seafood—keeps everyone enjoying the table between rounds.
During spring, you can also bring this themed beer to a hanami gathering. These cherry-blossom parties combine food, drinks and conversation beneath the blooming trees. As a result, a bottle featuring a historical figure can give friends an interesting topic to discuss.
How to Serve and Pair This Japanese Beer
First, chill the beer before serving. You can enjoy it straight from the bottle or pour it into a glass. Either way, take a moment to read the label and discover the historical figure behind the name.
For a simple snack, try salted peanuts from a Japanese convenience store such as 7-Eleven. Their crunchy texture and salty flavour pair well with a light lager. Alternatively, serve the beer with tonkatsu, the Japanese breaded pork cutlet. The beer’s refreshing character complements the crispy coating.
This style suits warm spring days and the summer months, when many people prefer a cold, easy-drinking beer. It also works well for relaxed evenings at home or casual gatherings with friends.
At Tokyo izakayas, a craft beer bottle may cost ¥800 or more, depending on the venue and beer. However, buying by the case from Omori Mart can reduce the per-bottle cost, depending on the listed price and order size.
Get Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer Delivered in Japan
Omori Mart offers Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer by the case in 330 ml bottles. It provides a convenient option for customers who want to explore Japanese beers with historical themes.
Here are the available shopping benefits:
- Free shipping on orders over ¥15,000.
- Payment options include FamilyMart, 7-Eleven and Lawson convenience-store payments, bank transfer and card payments.
- Nationwide delivery across Japan.
Availability at other retailers may vary. If you are looking for this particular themed release, check Omori Mart’s current product listing for stock and ordering details.
[Shop Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer →]
https://omorimart.com/product/meiji-restoration-shigenobu-okuma-beer-330ml-x-24-bottles/
Raise a Glass to Japanese History
Kanpai (乾杯) brings people together over drinks, food and conversation. With Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer, you can add a little Japanese history to that familiar ritual.
Raise a glass to the founder of Waseda University and one of Japan’s influential political figures. Whether you enjoy it at home, share it with friends or serve it at a gathering, this themed pale lager offers a conversation starter rooted in Japan’s past.
Discover Meiji Restoration Shigenobu Okuma Beer at Omori Mart and enjoy a taste of Japan’s history.
No products in the cart.