Shiraoka Beer

Shiraoka Beer is a small brewery in Shiraoka City, Saitama, but they’ve been making some interesting moves on Instagram lately.

The one to watch is "Fukurou IPA." It’s a session-style IPA with 3% alcohol, and a 500 mL can costs just 500 yen including tax. They highlight citrusy hop aromas while keeping the finish light.

Exactly, it’s a pretty aggressive pricing strategy. They also seem to set wholesale prices, so it’s easier for restaurants to carry it. You can really feel the intent to make craft beer an approachable entry point at an accessible price.

It’s popular enough that it comes back quickly even after selling out. Instagram is their main channel, and they don’t have an official website. They also don’t have an attached pub, so they’re a brewery that’s fully focused on making and selling beer.

Shiraoka City is known as a pear-producing area, but it’s not really associated with beer yet. That’s why launching an IPA branded with "Fukurou" feels like they’re trying to take on a regional symbol. And the fact that it sells out and then comes back right away is proof that they’ve built a real fan base.

Since it’s still a brewery with limited information out there, checking it out now could give you something to brag about later, like "I knew them from the early days." I’d recommend following @shiraokabeer on Instagram.