Hoppy (beverage)

Hoppy (ホッピー, Hoppii^?) is a beer-flavored almost non-alcoholic drink (0.8% alcohol) that Kokuka Beverage Company began producing and selling in Japan in 1948; it is currently most available in and associated with Tokyo. Kokuka subsequently changed its name to Hoppy Beverage Co., Ltd. Hoppy is currently a registered trademark of Hoppy Beverage Co., Ltd.

Despite its beer-like flavor, Hoppy contains no purine bases.

At the time of its launch, Hoppy mixed with shōchū (a Japanese distilled beverage) was considered a substitute for beer, which was beyond the reach of ordinary people. The mixed drink is referred to as Hoppy as well. It is still a staple among some Tokyo residents, and have experienced a retro revival of late. It is a popular item at izakaya (Japanese-style pubs), especially within the suburban old town area along the Keisei Main Line.

Legally speaking, Hoppy is a non-alcoholic drink; however, it does contain about 0.8 percent alcohol. It is often added to shōchū, a Japanese distilled beverage. The company recommends a detailed way of using it as follows:

When Hoppy is ordered at a pub, a glass or mug of shōchū is brought along with a bottle of Hoppy. The shochu will be referred to as "naka" (中, lit. "inside"^?), and the Hoppy will be called "soto" (外, lit. "outside"^?). If another bottle of Hoppy is needed, the phrase "another 'soto'" is used. It is also possible to order just "naka," in which case a shōchū shot will be served on its own.

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