Vertere
Vertere is a popular Tokyo brewery with beer available throughout the city, but we highly recommend visiting their restaurant in Okutama. Although it’s about a 90-minute trip from central Tokyo, it’s well worth the journey. The restaurant is charming, conveniently located near the station, and surrounded by nature. Here, you’ll find 10 different beers on tap. Among the flavors, you might find such interesting creations as chai latte stout and oats IPA. While a pint is on the pricier side, the quality is excellent. The food menu pairs well with the drinks, and the friendly staff speaks English. Please note that the restaurant is only open on weekends and national holidays. Additionally, just across from the train station, they have a shop where you can buy cans of their beer to take home. Give it a try!
Address:
Vertere Taproom: 212 Hikawa, Okutama
VERTERE Brewery & Bottle Shop: 1099 Hikawa, Okutama
Okei Brewery
Okei Brewery opened in October 2021, during a challenging time when restaurants across the country were struggling with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The company, which originally operated a wine-focused restaurant in Shinbashi, ventured into brewing by learning beer-making skills from scratch. As Arakawa Ward’s first brewery, it quickly became a popular spot for beer enthusiasts. With a mission to create “Our Village Beer” for the local community, each beer is named after a different local area. The unique appeal lies in how the flavors vary over time with different hop blends. In addition to its own brews, Okei Brewery offers limited-edition beers and guest selections from other breweries. Chef Tanaka, with a background in French cuisine, curates unique dishes and house-made desserts that pair perfectly with the beers. Whenever you visit, there’s always something new to explore!
Address: 5-37-4 Higashinippori
OUR DAYs
A short walk from Sasazuka Station will take you to the microbrewery OUR DAYs. While the prices aren’t cheap, the impressive selection and variety of beers—from IPAs to Hazy ales—more than make up for it. The owner, a former film industry professional, has creatively named some of the craft beers after famous movie works, adding a unique touch to the experience. You can choose your preferred style of craft beer from a convenient chart, and the tasting set is highly recommended—all the options are delicious. Plus, if you’re visiting with your pet, you’re in luck: the brewery is very pet-friendly.
Address: 3-40-1 Sasazuka
Kunitachi Brewery
Kunitachi Brewery embraces the philosophy “Old is New,” blending traditional beer styles with unique Japanese elements. Head brewer Katsuyuki Shiba, originally interested in music, found his passion for beer through exploring Japan’s history of fermentation. After gaining experience at AOI Brewing, he returned in 2020 to lead Kunitachi Brewery, which has since won several international awards for its innovative brews. To experience their beers, visit Kasugai, a restaurant offering a traditional Japanese atmosphere and delicious food year-round.
Address: 3-17-27 Higashi, Kunitachi
Gotojozo
If you are visiting Kyodo or the surrounding area, be sure to stop by Gotojozo. This tiny local brewery and standing bar, founded by three friends, offers delicious ales, interesting rotating taps, and tasty beer-friendly side dishes. It’s a must-visit spot for any beer enthusiast! However, if you can’t make it to the physical location, online and delivery orders are also available.
Address: 2-14-3 Kyodo
