Though not quite as varied and unique as the culinary offerings in Japan, the range of drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) is worthy of mention.  A great many of these will be available in some form at vending machines and convenience stores across the country.  Here is a list of the most common drinks one will come across in Japan:

Beiru (beer) – Beer is everywhere in Japan.  The stalwarts of domestic production are Kirin, Sapporo, Asahi, and Suntory; each of which offers a wide variety of different brews.  Tourists may be surprised to find that beer in Japan is relatively expensive (about 3-4 times as much as domestic brands in the U.S.) due to taxes which are layered on to each can or bottle, however one can find some styles which reflect a somewhat lower cost due a tax law quirk that allows for a lower tax to be levied on beers that have lower proportions of certain brewing ingredients (taste is generally unaffected).  A good selection of foreign beers can also be found in most supermarkets or convenience stores.

Calpis or Calpico – An un-carbonated milky beverage similar to drinkable yogurt.

Chu-hi – A fruity alcoholic canned beverage similar to a wine cooler made from shochu and offered in a variety of flavors including peach and lemon.

Kohi (coffee)- Can be found hot in coffee houses but expansively offered in canned form combined with milk and sugar and served cold (similar to iced cappuccino type beverages).  Canned coffee can be found in most vending machines.

Mugicha (buckwheat tea) – Tea made from buckwheat and served cold.

Ocha (tea)– Is the general term for tea served either hot or cold, primarily hot.  Macha is a term for term fro grren tea used specifically in a Japanese tea ceremony.

Pocari Sweat – A nearly clear beverage similar to popular sports drinks like Gatorade in the U.S.

Sake – Traditional rice wine which is served either hot or cold.

Shochu – A strong alcohol drink similar to vodka, but distilled from sweet potatoes, barley, or rice.

Cola (soft drinks) – Standard international soft drinks can be found in vending machines throughout Japan.  The term “diet” in terms of soft drinks is not used, so lower calorie options will likely be termed “zero” or “one”.

Mizu (water) – Tap water is safe throughout Japan, however a variety of bottled water can be found in grocery stores, convenience stores, and vending machines.