Beer Buzz

The 2022 American Craft Beer Experience (ACBE) Japan is back Nov. 12-13 at the Waters Takeshiba Outdoor Event Space. Organized by the American Brewers Association, the popular event has been absent from the calendar the last two years, but it will be making a triumphant return at this cool venue. Visit waters-takeshiba.jp for access and follow them at facebook.com/ACBEjapan to learn more about the great selection of American breweries participating.

Earlier this year, Yokohama’s TDM 1874 brewery opened the Shimokitazawa Taproom adding another place to enjoy their award-winning brews besides their brewpub location in Tokaichiba, Yokohama. The Shimokitazawa Taproom will be hosting a Craft Beer Festival slated for Nov. 4-6 with other selected breweries. Follow them for more information on the event coming soon at tdm1874brewery.com/pages/brewpub02.

Former Baird brewmaster Chris Poel has been busy at his Shiokaze BrewLab. When not gypsy brewing around Japan he’s serving up a great selection at his Shiokaze BrewStand Soba in Chiba, which opened in 2020, and now he’s planning to open his second location, the Shiokaze BrewStand Kemigawahama in October. Find out more at shiokazebrewlab.com.

Some great craft beer from the mainland is making its way to Okinawa Island in November, when The Okinawa Bottle Shop opens up. The small shop in Yomitan will feature selected fresh craft beer from around Japan, including local Okinawa beers, as well as showcase other selected craft beer, cider and refreshments. The location in the center of Okinawa Island means fresh beer is never far away. Check for updates and the official opening date at okinawabottleshop.com.