If you’ve been to a Japanese convenience store or supermarket, you’ve probably seen colorful cans with the word Horoyoi (ほろよい) written on them. This drink is one of Japan’s most popular Chu-Hi (チューハイ) brands, loved especially by people who prefer lighter alcohol. Let’s take a closer look!

What does “Horoyoi” mean?

The Japanese word “ほろ酔い (Horoyoi)” means “slightly tipsy” or “pleasantly buzzed.” It describes that warm, relaxed feeling after drinking just a little alcohol—not drunk, just cheerful. The brand name perfectly reflects the concept: easy drinking, fun, and approachable for everyone.

What is Chu-Hi?

Chu-Hi is short for “Shochu Highball.”
Originally, it was a cocktail made with shochu (a Japanese distilled spirit) and soda water, often flavored with lemon. Today, however, “Chu-Hi” refers to a wide variety of canned alcoholic drinks in Japan. Instead of shochu, many modern Chu-Hi products—including Horoyoi—use neutral spirits, giving them a light, refreshing taste.

Why is Horoyoi special?

• Low alcohol content: Horoyoi is usually 3% alcohol, much lower than beer (around 5%) or sake (12–15%). This makes it beginner-friendly.
• Easy to drink: The fruity flavors and mild sweetness make it enjoyable even for people who don’t usually drink alcohol.
• Huge variety: Peach, grape, lemon, soda, yogurt-flavored, seasonal limited editions—you’ll find new flavors almost every time you visit a Japanese convenience store!
• Affordable and convenient: Available everywhere—convenience stores, supermarkets, and even vending machines.

Top 5 Recommended Horoyoi Flavors 🍑🍇🍋

With so many options, it can be hard to choose. Here are five flavors that are especially popular and easy to find:

1. Peach (もも) – The No.1 best-seller. Sweet, fragrant, and very smooth.
2. White Grape (白ぶどう) – Refreshing and slightly tart, a favorite for wine lovers.
3. Lemon (レモン) – Classic citrus Chu-Hi flavor, crisp and not too sweet.
4. White Sour (ホワイトサワー) – Yogurt-like, creamy yet refreshing, unique to Japan.
5. Seasonal Limited Editions – Japan loves seasonal products! Depending on the season, you might find Sakura (cherry blossom), Watermelon, Apple, or Winter-only flavors.

👉 Tip: If you’re traveling in different regions of Japan, check the convenience stores—you may find flavors that are only available for a limited time.

Where can you buy Horoyoi? 🏪

Horoyoi is everywhere in Japan, making it easy for travelers to try:

• Convenience stores: 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart (you’ll find many flavors and seasonal editions).
• Supermarkets: AEON, Ito-Yokado, Seiyu (good for buying multi-packs).
• Discount shops: Don Quijote often has special prices and rare flavors.
• Vending machines: In some places, you may even find Horoyoi sold in alcohol-only vending machines (ID check required).

⚠️ Note: You must be 20 years old or older to buy alcohol in Japan. Be prepared to show your ID.

Perfect for travelers

If you want to try Japanese alcohol but don’t want something too strong, Horoyoi is a great choice. It’s a fun way to experience modern Japanese drinking culture, and with so many flavors, you can even treat it like a tasting adventure during your trip.

👉 Drink responsibly! Horoyoi may be light, but it’s still alcohol. Enjoy it in moderation.

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