I've always enjoyed a classic Scotch & Soda, but Japan elevates this simple cocktail into something much more refined — and readily accessible. Whether picked up at a konbini or ordered at an izakaya, canned highballs are a staple of Japanese drinking culture. Crisp, refreshing, and often better than what you'd expect from a cocktail bar back home.
Table of Contents
Section I
Canned Highballs I Tried
During my trip I made it a mission to try a variety of canned highballs. Here are my top picks.
- 1. Suntory Kaku — Best value. Clean, crisp, and well-balanced — the clear standout. A major step up from my old college go-to, Jack & Coke.
- 2. Black Nikka — A great option if you prefer a touch of smokiness. Still smooth and easy-drinking, especially over ice.
- 3. Suntory Strong Zero Lemon — More like a soda than a traditional highball, but really refreshing when you're in the mood for a citrusy twist.
Section II
Highballs as Cocktails
The canned versions were convenient and tasty — but fresh highballs at local spots stood out for different reasons.
- 1. Tomato Highball — Skeptical going in, but this was actually delicious. Savory, bright, and perfect with izakaya food.
- 2. Suntory Kaku (fresh) — Tried it both canned and fresh. Hard to tell the difference — Suntory really nails the balance in both formats.
Section III
Where to Enjoy Them
Shinjuku Izakaya
One of my favorite memories was sipping a tomato highball in a cozy izakaya tucked into a side street in Shinjuku. The drink and atmosphere were a perfect match.
Kabukicho Tower Yokocho
Later I explored Kabukicho Tower's Yokocho-style food court — wider drink selection, but the food didn't quite live up to the experience at the izakaya.
The side-street izakaya beats the food court every time. Find the smallest, most crowded door and go in.
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