While Japan is known for its sake, beer, and whisky - you will fall in love with vodka once you’ve tried the best Japanese vodka!
Explore the refined world of Japanese vodka with our discerning selection of the best on the market.
Japan's vodkas are a testament to the country's dedication to purity and craftsmanship, offering smooth, clean profiles with a distinct character. Join us as we unveil the top contenders that promise to elevate your cocktail experience.
Where can you buy Japanese vodka?
There are several online websites that bring to you the celebrated Japanese vodka, so you can enjoy the taste without having to fly to Japan. You can find them on websites such as Amazon. If that option is not available, you can always purchase Japanese vodka from the official websites of brands.
Which Is The Best Japanese Vodka?
Haku Vodka is known to be the best Japanese Vodka. It’s smooth, clear, and tastes just subtle. It is made out of 100% Japanese white rice and the meaning of the word ‘Haku’ is white. Haku Vodka tastes smooth and sweet due to the filtration process which uses bamboo charcoal. This premium vodka tastes better with ice and tastes even better when made into a martini with soda water and a lemon peel for garnishing. The alcohol content is between 37.5% to 40% depending on where you live.
| Best Japanese Vodka | ABV Percent | Link |
| Nikka Coffey Vodka | 40% | View to official site |
| Kissui Vodka | 40% | View to official site |
| AO Vodka | 40% | View to official site |
| Haku Vodka | 40% | View to official site |
| Nikka Wilkinson Vodka | 40% | View to official site |
| Suntory Vodka 80 Proof | 40% | View to official site |
| Suntory Ice Vodka | 37% | View to official site |
| Okayama Craft Vodka Akari Hikari | 40% | View to official site |
- Related: Best Japanese Whisky
- Related: Best Japanese beer
Top Japanese Vodka
Nikka Coffey Vodka
Nikka is a Japanese brand that is known to be the maker of the world’s finest Japanese whisky. The Nikka Coffey Vodka was released alongside the company’s first gin.
The uniqueness of the vodka is that it is made in a continuous column called Coffey still that was imported by Nikka from Scotland. The Coffey still truly is the brand’s signature that makes it stand out from the rest.
The vodka is distilled from a mixture of barley and corn. The brand also makes use of yet another filtration process called white birch charcoal filtration before it is finally bottled up for our enjoyment. The vodka has a clean and soft palate and is extremely high in quality.
When you taste the vodka, you can taste different flavors such as peaches, apricots, and jasmine. There is also a mild hint of malty cereal. The distinctive flavors of the vodka make it stand out and leave a lingering sweetness on your tongue.
The vodka can be enjoyed straight after chilling it in the freezer. However, it is also recommended to mix this up into a vodka tonic. This can also be used to make martinis.
Key Features:
- Made by Nikka, the maker of one of the world’s finest Japanese whisky
- Was released alongside the brand’s first gin
- Made in the signature continuous still that was imported from Scotland
- Mixture of barley and corn
- Undergoes birch charcoal filtration before being bottled up
- Has a clean and soft palate
- Distinct flavors of peaches, apricots, and jasmine
- Has a mild hint of malty cereal
- Leaves a lingering sweetness on the tongue
- Great for making martinis
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Related: Best Japanese Rice Crackers
Kissui Vodka
Kissui means ‘absolutely pure’ in English, and the name truly suits it. Kissui was the first-ever vodka to be imported to the United States. The vodka is distilled using 100 percent Japanese rice. The vodka makes use of Fushi-mizu spring water, which is prized natural spring water used to make sake.
However, you will not get a lot of taste of rice when you drink this vodka, which is probably because of the process that is followed to make it. The vodka is passed through the still for up to 12 times.
The vodka has a very light taste; it has a softness and silkiness that draws you towards it. It is one of the best vodkas to mix into cocktails.
Key Features:
- First ever vodka to be imported to the United States
- Distilled using 100 percent Japanese rice
- Makes use of Fushi-mizu spring water
- Soft and silky taste
- Passed through the still for up to 12 times
- Best when mixed into cocktails
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Related: Best Japanese Potato Chips
AO Japanese Vodka
AO Vodka is brought to us by Suntory, which is quite a famous brand known for its whiskies. AO is the first vodka by the brand, and there is no doubt that it really is top class. The vodka is distilled on pot stills from 100 percent Japanese rice. The brand uses a bamboo filtration process.
The water used is sourced from the island of Kyushu, which is a place known for its active volcanoes and hot springs.
The vodka is as clear as crystal and has a silky creaminess. You can find and taste different flavors such as sushi rice, fresh-cut grass, coconut cream, and wet stone. It really is a palatable spirit that lets you enjoy the clear and crisp taste to perfection.
When you take a sip, it first burns but then it softens and leaves you with a soft milkiness. This is one of the few vodkas that you can drink up straight.
Like other spirits, it tastes amazing when served cold. This vodka pairs up perfectly with seafood such as oyster. You can also enjoy it with sushi or steak. A cocktail made using this vodka is also quite exclusive and delectable.
Key Features:
- Vodka by Suntory, a brand known for its amazing whiskies
- Distilled on pot stills
- Made using 100 percent Japanese rice
- The brand makes use of a bamboo filtration process
- Water is sourced from the island of Kyushu
- Clear vodka that burns at first but leaves behind a milky softness
- Palatable spirit that goes well with sushi, oyster, or steak
- Perfect for mixing up cocktails
- Best served cold
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Related: Best Japanese Snacks
Haku Vodka By Suntory
Yet another excellent vodka by Suntory, Haku vodka represents the nature and spirit of Japan in the truest sense. This is a premium vodka that is made using 100 percent Japanese white rice.
To make this vodka, the rice is filtered through bamboo charcoal, which is a unique method that helps preserve the sweet and subtle flavors of the rice. This process also enhances the flavor, giving you a kick each time you take a sip.
Key Features:
- Represents the true nature and spirit of Japan
- Premium vodka
- Made using 100 percent Japanese white rice
- Filtered through bamboo charcoal
- Enhances and preserves the flavor of the rice
- Gives you a sweet and subtle taste
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Nikka Wilkinson Vodka
This vodka is made by Nikka, and is probably a great choice for you. The vodka is filtered through charcoal that helps remove any impurities from it. It is made using the finest ingredients that bring out a rich flavor. Although it has a sharp taste, it is quite easy to drink. The vodka is also quite pure.
I love this vodka too much, and so prefer this over several other expensive ones. It is one of the best vodkas to mix into cocktails.
Key Features:
- Filtered through charcoal that helps remove impurities
- Has a sharp taste
- Easy to drink
- Best when mixed into cocktails
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Suntory Vodka 80 Proof
Yet another wonderful vodka by Suntory, the 80 proof vodka is very light and dry. It is made using the traditional method of making vodka. It is filtered in the birch charcoal that helps enhance the flavors and remove all impurities. It is one of the best vodkas to be used as a base for cocktails.
Key Features:
- Light and dry
- Made using the traditional method
- Filtered in the birch charcoal that removes all impurities
- Enhanced flavors
- Great vodka to be used as a base for cocktails
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Suntory Ice Vodka
Yet another vodka by Suntory, the Ice Vodka is surely going to be your new favorite. The vodka goes through an ice filtration process that refines the flavors and also enhances it. The flavor that you get is quite unique. You can drink this vodka neat, or even make cocktails out of it. The packaging of the bottle is also adorable. With a 37 percent alcohol strength, this may just win your heart.
Key Features:
- Vodka goes through an ice filtration process
- Unique and distinct flavors
- Perfect to drink up straight
- Can be mixed into cocktails
- Comes with a 37 percent alcohol strength
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Okayama Craft Vodka Akari Hikari
This is a refreshing and crisp vodka that comes from the celebrated Okayama Distillery in Japan. The vodka is made using Nijo barley that is distilled in pot stills. It is filtered through birch charcoal that helps refine and enhance the flavors. Any impurities that maybe there are also removed in the process. It gives you a fresh and pure spirit that you will surely enjoy. You can drink this neat or mixed into cocktails.
Key Features:
- Refreshing and crisp vodka
- Made using Nijo barley
- Distilled in pot stills
- Filtered through birch charcoal
- Refined and enhanced flavors
- Perfect for drinking neat as well as mixing into cocktails
Find out more about this best Japanese vodka below!
Fujimi Vodka
I recently had the opportunity to try Fujimi Vodka, and I must say that it left a lasting impression. Fujimi Vodka is a premium spirit that delivers a smooth and refined drinking experience.
One of the standout features of Fujimi Vodka is its exceptional purity. It undergoes a meticulous distillation process, resulting in a clean and crisp flavor profile.
The vodka is made from high-quality ingredients, carefully selected and sourced to ensure the utmost quality.
Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted by a pleasant aroma that hinted at the vodka's quality. The taste was equally impressive, with a velvety texture that glided effortlessly across the palate.
Fujimi Vodka has a subtle sweetness that is well-balanced and never overpowering. It is remarkably smooth, devoid of any harsh or unpleasant aftertaste.
What sets Fujimi Vodka apart is its versatility. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation for various cocktails.
The vodka blends seamlessly with other ingredients, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Whether you prefer classic cocktails or creative mixology, Fujimi Vodka provides a solid base to craft exceptional libations.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the elegant packaging of Fujimi Vodka. The bottle design exudes sophistication and captures the brand's commitment to quality.
It would make a stylish addition to any home bar or a thoughtful gift for vodka enthusiasts.
While Fujimi Vodka may be priced slightly higher than some mainstream brands, its superior quality and exceptional taste make it well worth the investment.
Each sip delivers a delightful experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning vodka connoisseur.
Key Features
- Exceptional purity and clean flavor profile
- Made from high-quality ingredients
- Smooth, refined taste with balanced sweetness
- Versatile for enjoying neat or in cocktails
- Elegant and stylish packaging
- Provides a premium drinking experience
- No harsh aftertaste
- Crafted with care and precision
Ukiyo Rice Vodka
Ukiyo Rice Vodka is a truly remarkable spirit that offers a unique and enjoyable drinking experience. Crafted from rice, this vodka stands out for its distinctive flavor profile and smoothness.
One of the standout features of Ukiyo Rice Vodka is its exceptional taste derived from rice as its base ingredient.
This choice brings a delicate and slightly sweet note to the vodka, setting it apart from traditional grain-based vodkas. The flavor is well-balanced, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable drinking experience.
Upon tasting Ukiyo Rice Vodka, I was immediately struck by its smoothness. The vodka glides effortlessly across the palate, leaving no harsh or burning sensation.
It offers a clean and crisp finish, making it a delight to sip on its own or in various cocktails.
What makes Ukiyo Rice Vodka even more impressive is its versatility. It effortlessly blends with other ingredients, allowing mixologists and enthusiasts to craft a wide range of creative and delicious cocktails.
Whether you prefer classic recipes or experimental concoctions, Ukiyo Rice Vodka serves as an excellent base.
The elegant packaging of Ukiyo Rice Vodka is also worth mentioning. The sleek design reflects the spirit's refined nature and adds a touch of sophistication to any bar or collection.
It showcases the brand's commitment to quality and aesthetics.
While Ukiyo Rice Vodka may be a lesser-known brand, its unique flavor profile and exceptional smoothness make it a hidden gem worth exploring. The attention to detail in crafting this spirit is evident in every sip.
Key Features
- Distinctive flavor profile derived from rice base ingredient
- Smooth and clean finish, without harsh or burning sensation
- Versatile for use in a wide range of cocktails
- Elegant packaging reflecting sophistication and quality
- Unique and lesser-known brand for those seeking something different
How to choose the best Japanese vodka?
When choosing the best Japanese vodka, there are a few factors to consider:
- Reputation and Reviews: Research reputable Japanese vodka brands and read reviews from experts and consumers. Look for brands with positive feedback and a strong reputation for producing high-quality vodka.
- Ingredients and Production: Consider the ingredients used in the vodka production. Some Japanese vodkas are made from rice, while others may use other grains or unique ingredients. Consider the flavor profile you prefer and choose accordingly.
- Purity and Distillation: Look for vodkas that emphasize purity and undergo meticulous distillation processes. High-quality Japanese vodkas are often known for their exceptional smoothness and clean finishes.
- Taste Preferences: Consider your personal taste preferences. Some Japanese vodkas have subtle floral or fruity notes, while others offer a more neutral profile. Choose a vodka that aligns with your desired flavor profile.
- Price and Value: Determine your budget and consider the value offered by different brands. While some Japanese vodkas may be priced higher due to their quality or craftsmanship, others may offer excellent value at a more affordable price point.
- Availability: Check the availability of the vodka in your region. Some brands may have limited distribution, so ensure that the vodka you choose is accessible to you.
By considering these factors and exploring different brands, you can choose the best Japanese vodka that suits your preferences and provides an exceptional drinking experience.
Is Japanese Vodka good?
Japanese Vodka is quite good and is known to use grain ingredients and a high-quality filtration process which keeps the taste intact.
What is Japanese Vodka called?
Japanese Vodka is called Shochu which is distilled liquor that uses starchy and grain ingredients like potatoes and rice.
Where is Haku Vodka made?
Haku Vodka is from the ever famous liquor brand Suntory. It’s made in Japan in the area of Kagoshima where the production process begins.
Is vodka popular in Japan?
Vodka is not a popular alcoholic beverage in Japan. Japanese are obsessed with their usual spirit which is called sake.
What Does Japanese Vodka Taste Like?
Japanese vodka typically has a distinct flavor profile characterized by its smoothness, subtlety, and delicate sweetness.
Compared to traditional grain-based vodkas, Japanese vodka often showcases a more refined and nuanced taste.
It can possess subtle floral or fruity notes, depending on the ingredients used in its production. Japanese vodka is known for its exceptional purity, resulting in a clean and crisp finish.
The flavor profile of Japanese vodka can vary among different brands and styles, but overall, it tends to offer a smooth and well-balanced drinking experience that is highly regarded by vodka enthusiasts.
Are Japanese Vodkas Rare to Find?
Japanese vodkas are less common but becoming increasingly available due to growing interest in Japanese spirits and the global market for premium vodkas. They can be found in select liquor stores, specialty shops, and online retailers. Availability may vary depending on location.
How is Japanese vodka different?
Japanese vodka is different from other vodkas due to its use of alternative base ingredients like rice, meticulous distillation techniques for exceptional purity and smoothness, a subtle and refined flavor profile, attention to detail in production, and the influence of Japanese culture and traditions.
The best cocktail mix!
I hope you found the vodka that you have been waiting for your entire life. These were some of the best ones that will reinstate your love for this spirit. Are you ready to mix a few fantastic cocktails with these Japanese vodkas? Get them today!
