A Beer Lover’s Guide to Osaka: Best Breweries, Taprooms, and Hidden Gems

Osaka is a city that knows how to have fun, and for beer lovers, it’s rapidly becoming one of the most exciting places in Japan to grab an ice-cold beer. With the number of independent breweries, stylish taprooms, and quirky bars rising, Osaka’s craft beer scene is quickly becoming just as dynamic as its street food culture.

In this guide, we’re going to highlight the best breweries, taprooms, and local favorites, and even include some hidden gems recommended by our very own Osaka team (including an actual brewer)! Whether you’re planning a bar crawl or just looking for the perfect pint, this list has something for every taste.

Craft Beer Base: Mother Tree

Location: Hanshin Building (also branches in Ekimae and KITTE)

Why Visit: Mother Tree is a key player in Osaka’s craft beer scene, offering up to 15 taps with many beers brewed onsite. They’re known for having creative flavor profiles. With a craft beer base, Mother Tree specializes in herb- and spice-infused brews along with classic styles. And as a bonus tip, they serve some beers using traditional British-style hand pumps.

Local Tip: Don’t miss their seasonal creations and bring a friend to sample a few different styles!

Address: 1 Chome-13-13 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-0076

Website: https://craftbeerbase.com/shops/mothertree

Kamigata Beer

Location: Near Tennoji

Why Visit: Kamigata Beer is set in a beautifully restored sento (public bathhouse) and is one of the most atmospheric spots on this list. The space is full of character, and the beer menu leans toward light, balanced brews, which makes it a perfect place to drop by on a warm Osaka night.

Local Tip: Go there for the ambiance but stay for the refreshing golden ales.

Address: 3 Chome-15-6 Nishiawaji, Higashiyodogawa Ward, Osaka, 533-0031

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamigatabeer/?igsh=ZGRsdmR6aWM0NGQy#

Nomcraft Brewing – Juso Taproom

Location: Juso

Why Visit: Nomcraft Brewing is a bit of a newcomer to the scene but has already developed a reputation for having great beer and a laid-back vibe. Nomcraft Brewing’s Juso taproom has 12 rotating taps and a BYOF (bring your own food) policy. This means that you can grab some takoyaki from a local shop and enjoy it with a pint of ice-cold craft beer.

Local Tip: This is a great spot to meet locals and other travelers, especially on weekends.

Address: 1-16 Jusan Honcho, Yodogawa-ku, Osaka City

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomcraft_juso_taproom?igsh=bThiY3hvazU4Njhv

Umineko Stand

Location: Namba

Why Visit: This intimate standing bar is a landmark for craft beer enjoyers who prefer things to be casual and unpretentious. Umineko has a carefully curated selection of local and international brews. The vibe is warm and is perfect for spontaneous conversations.

Local Tip: Come early if you want to avoid the after-work crowd because it fills up quickly!

Address: 2 Chome-2-11 Shinsaibashisuji, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0085

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stand_umineko?igsh=YWsxMHV0dXl2bWZz

Nito Coffee & Beer

Location: Near Osaka Station

Why Visit: This chic spot combines specialty coffee and craft beer under the same roof. It’s great for a slow start to your day or a way to wind down in the evening. Nito takes both coffee and beer seriously, so you’re in good hands whether you order an Americano or a hazy IPA.

Local Tip: If you like both coffee and beer, mix it up with a coffee porter!

Address: 530-0003 Osaka, Kita Ward, Dojima, 2 Chome−2−22 １階

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nito_coffee_beer?igsh=MTZyaDlpazVwYjNpZg==

Yellow Ape Craft

Location: Near Umeda

Why Visit: Friendly and well-stocked with both Japanese and international beers, Yellow Ape Craft is a great pick for both beginners and beer connoisseurs alike. Also, it’s a popular hangout spot for locals and one of the best places to sample rare brews.

Local Tip: The bar is named in a playful nod to Osaka locals, so don’t forget to take a picture!

Address: 2 Chome-4-9 Imabashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 541-0042

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yellowapecraft?igsh=OWdjajgzcjBlN2Vv

Spotlight on UMEDA: West Coast Brewing Taproom

If you’re only going to visit one craft beer spot in Osaka, make it this one. West Coast Brewing UMEDA Taproom is a sleek, modern taproom serving bold, hop-centric brews that rival the most well-known in the U.S. and Europe. Their constantly rotating tap list includes punchy IPAs, smooth stouts, and seasonal surprises.

Why UMEDA? It’s Osaka’s central hub, which makes the taproom easy to find whether you’re traveling by JR, subway, or on foot. You’ll find both locals and travelers sipping brews here after work or before dinner.

Must-Try: Their signature IPA is aromatic, bitter, and very refreshing.

Address: 530-0001 Osaka, Kita Ward, Umeda, 1 Chome−2−2 大阪駅前第2ビル B2階32号西側

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wcb_umeda?igsh=MnVkdnNoYTFlbjdr

Final Toast: Kanpai to Osaka’s Craft Beer Culture

Osaka might be famous for its food, but its craft beer scene is a hidden treasure. From converted bathhouses to trendy Umeda taprooms, there’s a perfect pint waiting for every kind of beer lover.

So the next time that you’re in Osaka, skip the big-name beers and explore these local spots. Whether you’re a long-time beer connoisseur or just beer-curious, Osaka is where you can sip something new on every block!

Kanpai, and happy beer hunting!

Featured Photo Credit: Domestic & International Beers in the Umeda Sky Building – MR. AEKALAK CHIAMCHAROEN

And if you want to try the best spots with a local expert, make sure to join our Umeda Craft Beer and Bar Hopping tour!