Japanese convenience stores, known locally as Konbini, are always at the forefront of new trends. Starting Tuesday, March 24, 2026, a brand-new “CHILL GREEN Highball Can” will be released exclusively in Konbini across the Kanto area (Tokyo and its surrounding prefectures).
This product is an RTD (Ready-to-Drink) style cocktail based on “CHILL GREEN spicy & citrus,” a botanical-style barley shochu crafted by the long-established Hamada Syuzou distillery in Kagoshima Prefecture.
A Completely New Flavor Created by the Rare “Magao” (Makauy) Spice from Taiwan
The most distinctive feature of this highball is the rare spice used in its production: “Magao” (also known as Makauy). Magao is a fascinating spice that combines a refreshing citrus aroma similar to lemongrass with a spicy, tingling kick like Japanese sansho pepper.
To make the most of this unique fragrance, the alcohol content is set at a moderate 5%. As the carbonation tickles your palate, the aroma of Magao spreads, creating a “chill” (relaxing) moment that helps you forget the bustle of daily life.
The Perfect Partner for Spicy Food! A New Way to Enjoy Japanese Food Culture
Thanks to its spicy yet crisp flavor, the “CHILL GREEN Highball Can” is an excellent “shokuchu-shu” (an alcoholic drink enjoyed during a meal). It pairs exceptionally well with the following dishes:
- Curries with plenty of spices
- Ethnic cuisine characterized by unique herbal scents
- Chinese dishes that blend oiliness and heat
The citrus notes derived from the Magao spice refresh the palate and further enhance the spiciness of the food. It is perfect not only during meals but also as a relaxing nightcap.
Product Specifications and Availability
Details for the “CHILL GREEN Highball Can” are as follows:
- Product Name: CHILL GREEN s&c Highball
- Type: Spirits (Sparkling Cocktail)
- Alcohol Content: 5%
- Volume: 350ml (approx. 11.8 fl oz)
- Release Date: Tuesday, March 24, 2026
- Sales Region: Exclusive to convenience stores (Konbini) in the Kanto area of Japan (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, etc.)
- Suggested Retail Price: 244 yen (approx. $1.63 USD, including tax)
Since this product is limited to the Kanto region and sold only in Konbini, it will be a truly rare experience for those traveling in Japan.
The Rise of “Fragrant Shochu” and RTD Market Trends in Japan
Currently, the Japanese alcohol market’s RTD sector has grown to a scale of approximately 500 billion yen (approx. $3.35 billion USD). Within this market, “Fragrant Shochu” (known as Kaori-kei Shochu) is attracting significant attention as a new way to enjoy this traditional spirit.
While shochu used to have a reputation for having a strong, distinct character, recent years have seen the emergence of innovative products with aromas reminiscent of lychee or other fruits, gaining support from the younger generation and those who previously didn’t drink shochu.
The “CHILL GREEN” series adds a “botanical” element to this trend, evolving traditional barley shochu into a modern and stylish beverage.
You can find more details about botanical barley shochu on the official brand site: https://www.hamadasyuzou.co.jp/chillgreen_brand/ 🇯🇵
Launch Celebration! Sampling Events in Tokyo
To celebrate the launch, several promotions will be held within Japan.
SNS Campaign
Hamada Syuzou’s official X (formerly Twitter) account will run a giveaway where 200 winners will receive the product via lottery (March 16 – April 5, 2026). https://x.com/hamadasyuzou 🇯🇵
Free Tasting Events in Tokyo
Free sampling events will be held where you can experience this flavor for yourself:
- Nakameguro Venue: Saturday, March 21, 2026, at “Rental Space Sakura Nakameguro”
- Ikebukuro Venue: Friday, April 3, 2026, at “WACCA IKEBUKURO”
The Diverse World of “CHILL GREEN”
The “CHILL GREEN” series offers an attractive lineup beyond the base of this highball:
- 1st Edition: CHILL GREEN spicy & citrus The base for this highball. Characterized by the spiciness of Magao and a citrus aroma.
- 2nd Edition: CHILL GREEN bitter & tropical Uses the rare “Galaxy Hop.” Offers a sweet aroma similar to pink grapefruit with a pleasant bitterness.
“CHILL GREEN” offers a completely new approach to enjoying shochu, Japan’s traditional distilled spirit. If you find yourself in the Kanto area, be sure to check the beverage section of a Konbini!
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