140+ Years of Japanese Sparkling History
Mitsuya Cider is not just a soda — it is a living piece of Japanese history. Born during the Meiji era when Japan was opening to the world, it became the country's first sparkling soft drink.
During Japan's Meiji era of rapid modernization and Westernization, Mitsuya Cider is created as one of Japan's first carbonated soft drinks. The name "cider" is adapted from the Western concept but transformed into something uniquely Japanese — a sweet, clear, apple-flavored sparkling drink with no alcohol. It represents Japan's ability to take foreign concepts and make them distinctly its own.
Mitsuya Cider spreads across Japan, becoming a fixture at festivals, restaurants, and family gatherings. It becomes the go-to celebratory drink for those who do not drink alcohol — a toast with Mitsuya Cider becomes a Japanese tradition. The distinctive gold-label design becomes instantly recognizable across the country.
Asahi, one of Japan's largest beverage companies, takes over production and modernizes the brand while preserving its classic character. Mitsuya Cider expands its product line with new variations while keeping the original formula intact. The brand becomes part of Asahi's portfolio of iconic Japanese beverages.
Now over 140 years old, Mitsuya Cider remains a beloved Japanese soft drink. It is available in convenience stores, supermarkets, and vending machines across Japan. International consumers are beginning to discover this piece of Japanese beverage history. The same crisp apple fizz that refreshed Meiji-era Japan continues to delight drinkers worldwide.