#Japan #Tokyo #Non-Alcoholic #Kohodo #YAKO

Kohodo Launches Premium Non-Alcoholic Ginger Ale: YAKO

Kohodo Co., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently introduced YAKO, a luxurious non-alcoholic ginger ale tailored for dining experiences, special occasions, and as an elegant gift. Emphasizing a rich taste without the use of alcohol, YAKO seeks to change the perception of non-alcoholic beverages into a sophisticated option rather than just an alternative.

Development Background

Kohodo's quest for the ultimate taste has led to the creation of YAKO, which has been adopted by over 120 restaurants, including 37 eateries listed in the Michelin Guide 2026. The company's vision, encapsulated in the phrase "Wine or Kohodo?", aims to elevate the dining experience by offering a high-quality and flavorful alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. Unlike most choices in the non-alcoholic market, YAKO is designed not as a compromise but as a delightful selection; it encourages diners to choose it for its unique qualities rather than opting for it merely due to sobriety.

Product Features

YAKO departs from the ordinary by focusing on the beauty of aromatic notes rather than the typical sweet or spicy flavors found in most ginger ales. Utilizing yuzu and wasanbon sugar, the drink boasts a soft and elegant fragrance. The inclusion of cooked ginger adds depth, while fresh ginger delivers a vibrant flair. This blend allows YAKO to complement various culinary dishes subtly, leaving a lasting yet gentle impression on the palate.

Culinary Endorsements

Kenta Miyawaki, the owner of the kaiseki restaurant "Miyawaki", shares his experience with Kohodo's ginger ale. "When I was looking to enhance our non-alcoholic offerings, I encountered Kohodo's ginger ale and was immediately captivated by its overwhelming flavor. The balance is extraordinary and pairs wonderfully with our dishes," he says.

Customers have expressed how this thoughtful product meets their desires for premium, high-value beverages, even at a higher price point. The dedication to achieving the optimal balance through careful crafting reassures consumers of consistent quality, whether they're abstaining from alcohol or choosing not to drink for the day. YAKO stands as a positive option rather than merely a substitute.

Product Overview

• - Product Name: YAKO
• - Packaging: 375ml bottle (in a paulownia box)
• - Price: ¥11,000 (tax included)
• - Ingredients: Ginger (from Kochi), sugar (beet), wasanbon sugar, lemon juice, yuzu juice, mixed spices / carbonated water
• - Product Page: Link to YAKO

About Kohodo

Kohodo is a unique ginger ale specialty shop located in Chiyoda, Tokyo, functioning as both a small-scale soft drink manufacturer and an experiential store. Visitors can enjoy an immersive sensory experience as they explore the flavors of Kohodo's ginger ales.

Store Information

• - Open: Saturdays & Sundays (1:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
• - Address: 4-2-3 Kudansouth, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Nearest Stations: 3 minutes on foot from Ichigaya Station A3 exit, 8 minutes from Hanzomon Station 5 exit, and 15 minutes from Kudan Station 2 exit.
• - Online Store: Kohodo Online

YAKO is already featured in many Michelin-rated establishments and delivers a premium experience to all diners.
Note: Product specifications, prices, and availability are subject to change without prior notice.