Japan is known for its unique culture, which includes a variety of entertaining drinking games. These games are not only a great way to have fun with friends, but also offer an insight into Japanese drinking culture. Here are some of the most popular Japanese drinking games you should try at your next party:
1. chin-chin
Chin-Chin is one of the best-known Japanese drinking games. The players sit in a circle and take it in turns to call out "Chin" or "Chin-Chin" while tapping their glasses on the table. Whoever makes a mistake has to drink. The game gets faster and faster until there is only one player left.
2. tora tora tora
In Tora Tora Tora, the players have to say "Tora" (tiger) in turn and form their hands like tiger claws. Instead, you can also say "Hu" and hold your hands out flat. If you make a mistake or are too slow, you have to drink. This quick reaction game is guaranteed to make you laugh.
3rd Yamanote Sen
Yamanote Sen is named after the famous Yamanote line in Tokyo. The players sit in a circle and take it in turns to name stops on the Yamanote line. If you miss a stop, repeat yourself or hesitate too long, you have to drink. A great game for all Japan fans.
4th Osama
In Osama, each player draws a card. Whoever draws the king becomes the "Osama" (king) and can give instructions to the other players, e.g. "Drink up!", "Distribute 5 sips!" etc. The instructions must be followed until the next round begins and a new Osama is chosen.
5. taiku yakyuu
Taiku Yakyuu is the Japanese version of Beer Pong. Teams compete against each other and take it in turns to throw a table tennis ball into the opponent's cup. If you hit the ball, your opponent has to empty the cup. The team that hits all the opponent's cups first wins.
These drinking games are guaranteed to liven up your next party and immerse you and your friends in the fascinating world of Japanese drinking culture. But be careful: please always drink responsibly and don't overdo it. Kampai! (Cheers!)
Which of these Japanese drinking games will you try next? Let us know in the comments! And also check out our other drinking games and Cocktail recipes to find even more inspiration for your next party.
