Orion Beer is A refreshing Okinawan beer that represents the island’s unique brewing tradition.
Loved by locals and travelers alike, this tropical beer brand captures the easygoing island vibe of Japan’s southern paradise.
In this article, we’ll introduce four of Orion’s most popular beers — and tell you where you can find them while traveling in Japan.
Where to Buy Orion Beer in Japan
Good news — you don’t have to go all the way to Okinawa to enjoy Orion Beer!
It’s available throughout Japan, and easy to find while you travel.
Convenience Stores
You can often find Orion Beer at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Lawson.
During summer or “Okinawa Fair” promotions, it’s even easier to spot.
Grab a chilled can and enjoy it back at your hotel after a long day of sightseeing!
Supermarkets
Large supermarkets such as AEON, Ito-Yokado, and Seiyu carry Orion Beer as well.
Perfect if you want to buy multiple types for a tasting session with friends.
Izakaya & Restaurants
Many Okinawan restaurants and Japanese izakaya (pubs) across Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto serve Orion Beer.
Some even have it on draft, letting you enjoy its fresh and crisp flavor straight from the tap.
Places where you can drink Orion Beer
Okinawa Specialty Shops
If you want a bit of an Okinawa experience, check out places like Ginza Washita Shop in Tokyo.
You can buy Orion Beer along with Okinawan snacks, ramen, and local goods — perfect for gifts or souvenirs.
Comparing 4 Popular Orion Beers
1.Orion The Draft
The classic and most famous Orion Beer.
Brewed with Okinawan barley and pure Yanbaru water, it’s a true taste of the islands.
The flavor is refreshing and super smooth — crisp, light, and slightly sweet with a mild body.
It pairs well with any kind of food, from sushi to grilled meat.
If you’re trying Orion for the first time, this is the best place to start!
2.Orion The Premium
When you want something a little richer, go for The Premium.
This beer is brewed using a special yeast strain called “OB-001,” discovered from clover (white clover) in Uruma City, bringing a unique local touch.
The packaging has also been redesigned, featuring warm colors that remind you of Okinawa’s sunsets.
They say design can influence taste — and this can certainly feels as relaxing as it looks.
The taste is rich, aromatic, and full-bodied, with a hint of sweetness.
It’s perfect for slow evenings or when you want to treat yourself.
Compared to The Draft, it offers a deeper, more elegant flavor.
*The photos shown are from before the package was renewed.
3.75BEER Shima Kaze Pilsner
Part of the craft-style “75BEER” series named after Nago City (Nago = “75”), this Pilsner uses Okinawan barley and is crafted with great care.
It’s brewed with rare hops “ELLA” and “ENIGMA,” which make up less than 1% of the world’s total production, and fermented slowly at low temperatures.
When you drink it, you’ll notice a fruity aroma and gentle bitterness, similar to an IPA but smoother and more refined.
The flavor evolves as you drink — it starts crisp, then opens up to a rich, aromatic finish.
A perfect beer for relaxing at the beach or in a resort bar.
4.75BEER Shima Sora White Ale
This White Ale (Wheat Beer) is brewed with Okinawan wheat malt and locally grown hops — something quite rare for a Japanese beer!
It’s surprising to learn that hops can even grow in Okinawa, but this beer proves it beautifully.
Truly an “Okinawa-born and Okinawa-raised” craft beer.
The taste is smooth and mellow, with light citrus notes and a hint of spice in the aftertaste.
It’s lighter and easier to drink than most White Ales, making it perfect for hot Okinawan weather.
The can design — inspired by the clear blue Okinawan sky — perfectly matches its refreshing, airy character.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Taste of Okinawa, Wherever You Are
Each Orion Beer reflects a different side of Okinawa’s nature and culture:
- The refreshing classic – The Draft
- The rich and deep – The Premium
- The aromatic craft – Shima Kaze Pilsner
- The smooth and fruity – Shima Sora White Ale
You can easily find them in convenience stores, supermarkets, izakaya, and Okinawa specialty shops across Japan.
So next time you’re in Japan, grab a can (or two!) and toast to the warm breeze of Okinawa — wherever your journey takes you.
