However, the alcohol sold is only available to people 20 or older. Most venues and shows, however, have no restrictions in place. Some venues have specific rules in place that, for example, bar small children for standing shows or minors for certain events. Live music venues in Japan are legally operated as “eating and drinking establishments,” meaning that basically everyone can enter regardless of age. You’re able to consume alcohol in parks, at the station or – while frowned upon in most social circumstances – even inside a train. This means that it is legal to drink in public in Japan. If you ride the train late at night, you might be surprised to see a company employee sleeping at the station or inside the car.Īside from crime prevention issues, Japanese laws on drinking in public are generally relaxed. Japan also has other rules and customs regarding alcohol that differ from other countries. Some people might feel that the regulations regarding the sale of alcohol are more lenient than elsewhere. Nowadays, there are hardly any vending machines in Japan left that offer alcohol, but you will sometimes spot them in rural areas.
Especially convenience stores sell alcohol 24/7. Alcoholic beverages aren’t only sold at liquor stores in Japan but also at supermarkets and convenience stores. Some stores will ask you for identification to confirm your age. (Just be sure to bring your passport with you for ID.)Īs in many other countries, people under the legal age of 20 also cannot purchase alcohol.
While this age differs from country by country, as long as you’re over 20 years of age, you’re free to drink in Japan. It’s even more fun if you’re in a group or spontaneously find a local drinking buddy in a small, atmospheric bar! The legal drinking age in Japan is 20. If you're 20 or older, you're able to drink in JapanĮnjoying local drinks is an inherent part of a trip for many travelers.