Bakushudo Kasugai – Kunitachi Brewery Taproom Review

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Sharing the craft beer experience through an IT engineer's perspective. As a certified beer judge in Japan, I participated in the 2024 JGBA competitions. Currently based in Seattle, I offer brewing process insights and reviews while comparing craft cultures between the US and Japan.

My mission is "creating a world where breweries' unique stories reach their audience." I support brewers by leveraging my IT skills through prompt engineering and web development. Feel free to reach out with any questions about beer and technology. Cheers! 🍻


Bakushudo Kasugai – Kunitachi Brewery Taproom Review

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We introduce the directly operated store “Bakushudo Kasugai” of the craft beer brewery “Kunitachi Brewery” located in Kunitachi. The brewery and restaurant are in separate locations, but this is a wonderful spot where you can enjoy fresh beer. Especially the low-alcohol beers are exquisite, and the regular “1926” Kölsch is a gem that makes you want to drink multiple pints!

📅 Article Information: This article is based on a visit experience in October 2022 and was published in October 2022.

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
What is a brewpub, woof? Can you call it a brewpub even if the brewery and store are separated?
Riho-kun
Riho-kun
A brewpub is a beer bar or taproom attached to a brewery! In this blog, we broadly introduce directly operated brewery stores as brewpubs. The attraction is that production and service are from the same company.

What You’ll Learn from This Article

  • ✓ Basic information about Kunitachi Brewery & Bakushudo Kasugai
  • ✓ The appeal of low-alcohol beers and Kölsch
  • ✓ How to enjoy rare beer styles (Raw Ale)
  • ✓ Access information and nearby beer spots

Bakushudo Kasugai Basic Information

Store Name Bakushudo Kasugai (ばくしゅどう かすがい)
Address 〒186-0002 Tokyo, Kunitachi City, Higashi 3-17-27
Access 25 minutes walk from Yaho Station (Nambu Line)
Hours Weekdays & Sun: 11:00〜21:00
Fri & Sat: 11:00〜22:00
Closed Every Wednesday
Official Website https://b-kasugai.com/

※Hours and closing days may change. Please check the official website for the latest information.

About KUNITACHI BREWERY

This is a brewery affiliated with the liquor store “Sekiya” in Kunitachi City. A brewer from the brewery “AOI BREWING” in Shizuoka City serves as the head brewer, and they released their 1st batch “1926 (Kölsch)” in December 2020.

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
What are the characteristics and strengths of Kunitachi Brewery, woof?
Hop-kun
Hop-kun
Low-alcohol beers around 3% and “Raw Ales” are their specialties, hop! Despite the modest alcohol content, they have deep flavor, and they focus on unique styles you don’t often see at other breweries, hop! The tap list is frequently updated, so there are new discoveries with every visit, hop!

The official website provides detailed information about the brewery’s history and brewers. For more detailed information, please visit here.

https://kunitachibrewery.com/

https://kunimachi.jp/spot/kunitachibrewery/

Official Social Media

Twitter: @KUNIBURU
Instagram: @kunitachi_brewery

Craft Beers to Enjoy at Bakushudo Kasugai

At Kasugai, you can always enjoy about 9 types of Kunitachi Brewery beers and several guest beers. The tap list is frequently updated and can also be checked on their official Twitter. They also offer a 4-beer tasting flight, so first-time visitors can try many varieties.

1926 – Classic Kölsch Style

Clear golden Kölsch style beer '1926' with beautiful foam
1926 take14 – Kunitachi Brewery’s flagship beer
Rune-chan
Rune-chan
Is Kölsch an easy-to-drink beer for beginners, woof?
Hop-kun
Hop-kun
It’s a very approachable style, hop! Kölsch is a top-fermented beer originating from the Cologne region of Germany, characterized by its refreshing and crisp taste, hop! Since 1986, through the “Kölsch Convention,” only certified breweries in the Cologne region can use the protected name “Kölsch,” hop!

Kunitachi Brewery’s flagship beer “1926” is truly an ideal Kölsch style. It goes down incredibly smoothly, with a comforting quality that seems to permeate the body. After finishing a pint, the perfection is such that you’ll want another. As someone who was previously a Helles fan, this beer is so appealing that it’s making me consider converting to being a Kölsch fan.

1926 Kölsch Flavor Profile

🍺 1926 Kölsch

Bitterness: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Sweetness: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Acidity: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Body: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Aroma: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Characteristics:

  • Moderate and well-balanced bitterness
  • Gentle malt sweetness
  • Subtly refreshing quality
  • Light yet with presence
  • Gentle malt aroma

The World Flickers Like a Mosaic Pattern – A Low-Alcohol Masterpiece

Low-alcohol beer 'The World Flickers Like a Mosaic Pattern' featuring Mosaic hop aroma
The World Flickers Like a Mosaic Pattern take? – Only 3.5% alcohol

【Beginner’s Guide: Mosaic Hops】

Mosaic hops are relatively new American hops that began commercial use in 2012. They’re characterized by tropical aromas of mango, pineapple, and citrus fruits, and are commonly used in modern craft beer, especially IPA styles. As the name suggests, they have a complex flavor profile where multiple aromas combine like a “mosaic painting.”

Hop-kun
Hop-kun
Mosaic hops’ parent varieties are Simcoe and Nugget, hop! Developed as variety number HBC 369, they have high alpha acids at 11.5-13.5% and rich oil content, making them perfect for aroma additions, hop!

Low-alcohol beers often tend to have unsatisfying flavors, but this beer offers remarkably rich taste despite being only 3.5%. The characteristic fruitiness of Mosaic hops is fully expressed, keeping you engaged until the last sip. Being low in alcohol, you can easily order a pint and enjoy a second glass without guilt, which is its appeal.

🍺 The World Flickers Like a Mosaic Pattern

Bitterness: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)

Sweetness: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Acidity: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (1/5)

Body: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (2/5)

Aroma: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

Characteristics:

  • Solid, refreshing bitterness
  • Fruity sweetness for balance
  • Subtle citrus acidity
  • Sufficient body despite low alcohol
  • Tropical and juicy aroma

Grain Drop – Encountering Unusual Styles

Uniquely brewed 'Grain Drop'
Grain Drop -INDIVIDUAL ORCHESTRA series #5- / take4 – 6% alcohol

【Beginner’s Guide: Kornøl】

Kornøl is a traditional farmhouse beer style originating from Norway. It typically uses homemade malt and traditional yeast “kveik,” with juniper berries added for distinctive flavor. It’s relatively rare in the modern craft beer scene and is gaining attention as part of the revival of traditional beer styles. Examples of brewing in Japan are extremely limited.

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
How should I approach beer styles I’m hearing about for the first time, woof?
Riho-kun
Riho-kun
It’s best to taste without preconceptions! Rather than deciding “I like/dislike this style,” it’s important to first have honest impressions. Encountering new styles is the true joy of craft beer, so approach them with an adventurous spirit!

This beer is a modern take on the traditional Norwegian Kornøl style. The distinctive flavor from added juniper berries (used in gin) is so fruity and complex that you might mistake it for containing actual fruit. You can enjoy a unique taste that can’t be simply compared to other beers you’ve had before. It’s a glass that demonstrates the depth of craft beer.

Detailed explanations can also be found on the official website.
https://kunitachibrewery.com/kuniburu-beer/individual-orchestra-5/

Raw Ale – Kunitachi Brewery’s Specialty

【Beginner’s Guide: Raw Ale】

Raw Ale refers to beer where the boiling process is omitted or minimized during brewing. In normal beer brewing, the wort is boiled for 60-90 minutes, but Raw Ale skips this step. This traditional method originates from the Scandinavian Peninsula and is a rare brewing method in the modern craft beer scene. By not boiling, the original flavors and enzymes of the grains remain, creating a distinctive taste profile.

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
How does Raw Ale differ from regular beer, woof?
Hop-kun
Hop-kun
By omitting the boiling process, grain flavors are expressed directly, creating distinctive smoothness and nutty nuances, hop! Delicate flavors and enzymes that would normally be lost through heating remain, resulting in complex yet gentle mouthfeel, hop!

Kunitachi Brewery can be said to be one of the breweries most exploring Raw Ale in Japan. While beers using wheat or oats typically create a gentle mouthfeel, Raw Ale similarly achieves smooth texture while adding characteristic nutty nuances for deep, complex flavors.

The brewery regularly brews Raw Ale as their “NAKED TRADITION series,” providing innovative beers that add modern arrangements to traditional Norwegian methods. Furthermore, they actively collaborate with other breweries, with experimental Raw Ales like farmhouse ales with 2ndStoryAleWorks and hazy beers with Nomcraft spanning different genres.

💡 About the NAKED TRADITION Series

“In the NAKED TRADITION series, we brew beer using the Raw Ale method, which intentionally omits boiling when making wort, based on traditional brewing methods that have been used in Northern Europe and other regions since ancient times. These beers are characterized by the sweetness of grains and nutty flavors.”

Source: Kunitachi Brewery Official Website

If you see Raw Ale on tap at the taproom, definitely try it. You should be able to experience distinctive flavors that set it apart from regular beer. It’s especially recommended for those who want to feel the character of malts or challenge themselves with new types of beer.

Enjoying Diverse Flavors with Beer Flights

Beer flight with four different beers lined up
Beer flight with generous 185ml servings per glass

Kasugai also offers beer flights where you can compare 4 different types. With larger servings per glass than typical flights (185ml), you can leisurely enjoy the changing flavors. It’s perfect for comparing differences in hops or brewing methods.

Kasugai’s Food Menu

Garlic shrimp loaded with plump shrimp
Exquisite garlic shrimp that pairs perfectly with beer

The food menu that pairs well with beer is also extensive. Particularly recommended is the garlic shrimp, where plump shrimp and garlic flavors enhance the beer’s taste. Other options include crispy fried chicken breast and large fish fritters, offering everything from snacks to full meals.

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
What are your recommendations for beer and food pairings, woof?
Riho-kun
Riho-kun
The signature “1926” Kölsch pairs perfectly with fish or chicken dishes! The seafood garlic shrimp is an excellent match. For fruity hop beers, try pairing with slightly spicy dishes to enjoy the contrast of flavors.

🍺 Recommended Craft Beer Purchase Guide

For those who want to enjoy Kunitachi Brewery’s beers at home, or those interested in Kölsch style and low-alcohol beers, here are some related products.

🍺 Gaffel Kölsch – Authentic German Traditional

Made by a traditional brewery founded in 1302, this is authentic Cologne-produced Kölsch. Made by a certified brewery that signed the Kölsch Convention, it offers authentic taste perfect for comparing with Kunitachi Brewery’s “1926.”

  • Alcohol content: 4.8% (close to 1926’s strength)
  • IBU: 24-26, dry with nutty flavors
  • 330ml x 24 bottle set
  • Experience the world standard of Kölsch

View on Amazon →

Hop-kun
Hop-kun
Comparing authentic German Kölsch with Japanese craft beer helps you understand brewing technique differences and regional characteristics, hop! Gaffel Kölsch is from a brewery founded in 1302, perfect for understanding Kölsch standards, hop!

🌟 Mosaic Hop IPA – Y.MARKET BREWING

Single-hop Hazy IPA using the same Mosaic hops as featured in “The World Flickers Like a Mosaic Pattern.” Characterized by tropical fruit aromas of papaya and passion fruit.

  • Alcohol content: 6.5%, IBU: 24.2
  • 100% Mosaic hops
  • Aromas of papaya, passion fruit, and mandarin pulp
  • Hazy IPA style

View on Rakuten →

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
Do you have recommendations for low-alcohol beers, woof? I’d like to know good beers for enjoying during the day, woof!

🍃 Asahi Super Dry Dry Crystal

In the same category as the 3.5% low-alcohol beer featured in the article. Released in October 2023 and became a huge hit, this low-alcohol beer can be enjoyed casually during the day while maintaining authentic taste.

  • Alcohol content: 3.5% (same as the beer in the article)
  • Popular product released in 2023 that achieved annual goals in 3 months
  • More casual beer experience
  • Maintains authentic flavor

View on Rakuten →

🎁 World Championship Gold Medal Craft Beer Tasting Set

Recommended for those who want to enjoy authentic tasting at home like Kasugai’s beer flights. Limited 10-bottle set including world championship gold medal winning beers, allowing you to experience various beer styles.

  • Includes world championship gold medal winning beer
  • 10 carefully selected craft beers
  • Diverse styles from Kölsch to IPA
  • Perfect gift box included

View on Rakuten →

Riho-kun
Riho-kun
Low-alcohol, flavorful beers like Kunitachi Brewery’s “The World Flickers Like a Mosaic Pattern” are perfect for daytime drinking or long gatherings. Look for similar products you can enjoy at home!

Nearby Information – Beer Hopping in Kunitachi Area

Kasugai is located 25 minutes on foot from Yaho Station on the Nambu Line. While it’s a bit of a walk, we recommend leisurely enjoying Kunitachi’s streetscape on the way.

A 12-minute walk from Kasugai brings you to “Beer cafe Mugi to Neko.” This lovely beer bar offers carefully selected beers from microbreweries nationwide and has an extremely extensive food menu. The pasta is particularly excellent and pairs wonderfully with beer. When visiting the Kunitachi area, definitely try touring both establishments.

Kunitachi Area Beer Hopping Model Course

🗺️ Recommended Tour Route

Afternoon Course

Yaho Station(14:00) → Bakushudo Kasugai(14:30) → Beer cafe Mugi to Neko(17:00) → Kunitachi Station(19:00)

Evening Course

Kunitachi Station(17:00) → Beer cafe Mugi to Neko(17:15) → Bakushudo Kasugai(19:00) → Yaho Station(21:30)

Japanese Brewery Tours

The author, who lived in Japan until 2024, has published records of traveling Japan’s craft beer scene nationwide. From the north in Hokkaido to the south in Kyushu, visiting breweries with unique personalities across Japan. From brewery-direct taprooms to beer pubs rooted in local communities, sharing reports on experiencing Japan’s craft beer culture. Content that delves deep into the appeal of Japanese craft beer, including seasonal limited brews, unique beers using local ingredients, and dialogues with toji (master brewers), can be viewed from this tag page.

https://rihobeer.com/tag/japan-ja/

American Craft Beer Exploration Records

The author, currently residing in Seattle, has published records of traveling the craft beer scenes of America and Canada. From popular breweries in Los Angeles to hidden gems in Portland, and unique taprooms in Vancouver, sharing brewery visit reports from across North America. Content that delves deep into North American beer culture, including limited beers only available locally and dialogues with brewers, can be viewed from this category page.

https://rihobeer.com/category/beer/brewpub/usa

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I purchase Kunitachi Brewery’s beers in bottles or cans?

A: Yes, some beers are available for purchase in cans or bottles at the Kasugai store. They’re also available at “Sekiya” in Kunitachi City. Please check the official website for online purchases.

Q: Will I understand how to choose beer even as a first-timer?

A: If you tell the staff your preferences and bitterness tolerance, they’ll kindly recommend options. Trying a flight to taste small amounts is also recommended. If you dislike bitterness, the “1926” Kölsch would be easy to drink.

Q: Are there non-alcoholic or low-alcohol options?

A: Kunitachi Brewery offers many low-alcohol beers around 3%, recommended for those wanting to moderate alcohol consumption. Please inquire at the store about completely non-alcoholic options.

How to Order at KUNITACHI BREWERY

At Bakushudo Kasugai, you order restaurant-style. For first-timers or those unsure about menu names, please refer to the following procedure.

📝 Ordering Process

  1. Step 1: Go to the counter when entering and confirm seating
  2. Step 2: Look at the menu and choose beer (if unsure, ask “What do you recommend?”)
  3. Step 3: Order by saying “I’ll have the ○○ please” (choose half or pint size)
  4. Step 4: Payment is at the end with food combined
  5. Step 5: Also check the food menu and order meals
  6. Step 6: Receive your beer and enjoy!

Saying things like “Please recommend a low-alcohol fruity beer” or “I’d like a beer that’s not bitter” will get you appropriate recommendations. The staff is friendly, so feel free to ask questions or consult them.

Summary – The Appeal of Kunitachi Brewery and Kasugai

Kunitachi Brewery’s directly managed store “Bakushudo Kasugai” is a hidden gem in Kunitachi where you can enjoy low-alcohol beers and unusual style beers. The signature “1926” Kölsch has such high quality that any beer lover can recommend it. Since the tap list changes frequently, there are always new discoveries with each visit.

Rune-chan
Rune-chan
Who would you recommend Kunitachi Brewery to, woof?
Riho-kun
Riho-kun
It’s enjoyable for everyone from craft beer beginners to experts! It’s especially recommended for “people looking for approachable yet distinctive beers,” “those seeking satisfying low-alcohol beers,” and “people wanting to challenge unusual beer styles.”

When visiting the Kunitachi area, definitely stop by. You should be able to enjoy a special craft beer experience with carefully brewed fresh beer and food menu that pairs well.

Please also check out our other brewpub tour records!

https://rihobeer.com/category/beer/brewpub/

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🏆 総合評価

🏆 総合評価

★★★★☆
4.0/5
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