【2025 Latest】Enjoy Inkhorn Brewing! A Travel Guide to Craft Beer in Mejiro

【2025 Latest】Enjoy Inkhorn Brewing! A Travel Guide to Craft Beer in Mejiro

This article introduces Inkhorn Brewing, a brewery located in Mejiro, Toshima Ward, Tokyo. This article is published in April 2025, based on my visit experience in February 2024. This brewery is known for providing delicious beers with a good balance from Hazy IPAs to lagers. Particularly noteworthy is that they advocate a new style called “Neon Pilsner.” It’s definitely one of the places that craft beer fans should visit. The origin of the brewery name “Inkhorn” comes from inkwells made from animal horns that were used in Europe in the past, and many of their beer names featuring birds are also characteristic.

Inkhorn Brewing consistently ranks high in Untappd’s brewery rankings for the Japan region, receiving high ratings from many beer enthusiasts. It serves as a central figure in the local craft beer scene, becoming a gathering place for beer lovers.

【Brewer’s Appeal】Inkhorn Brewing’s Founder and Brewing Philosophy

Inkhorn Brewing was founded by Shun Nakade, who was born in Koto Ward, Tokyo. After cultivating a passion for food and beverages from an early age, Nakade went to high school in Oregon after graduating from middle school. As a music lover, he was drawn to Seattle-born artists like Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, and after graduating from high school, he studied music theory and psychology in Seattle.

In 2018, he became involved in the launch of the brew pub “PITMANS” in Tokyo’s Kiyosumi-Shirakawa through an acquaintance, where he experienced commercial brewing for the first time. After that, he honed his brewing skills at Chiba Beer and Tsukuba Brewery. “I had already decided to open Inkhorn in 2020, so until the taproom opened, I was preparing by collaborating with various breweries. When we opened our doors in January 2021, we were mainly serving those collaboration beers,” says Nakade.

There is another meaning behind the name Inkhorn. That is the founder couple’s love for birds. His wife Amy Holdsworth’s hometown in Connecticut has the Audubon Society Coastal Center, a sanctuary for birds and wildlife. The couple loves birds and keeps Java finches as pets at home, which is one of the reasons why many of Inkhorn’s beers have bird-themed names. The image of a quill pen inserted into an inkwell also influenced the choice of the name Inkhorn.

Nakade’s brewing philosophy is “to be a Japanese brewer but gain inspiration from dialogue with brewers around the world.” He strives for creative beer making that respects traditional styles while incorporating new ideas, and he has a reputation particularly for brewing techniques that maximize the characteristics of hops.

Brewer Profile

【February 2024 Visit】Inkhorn Brewing Tap List

Inkhorn Brewing offers several types of beer on tap at all times. Representative beers include the following:

Mejiro	A popular beer representing the brewery
Flocc Members	A popular item among craft beer enthusiasts
Java Finch	WCIPA with a clear, beautiful taste
Bird of Paradise	Nelson single hop Hazy Double IPA
Flocking #2	Italian Pilsner
Flycatcher #2	West Coast IPA
Cross Hatch #4	West Coast Double IPA
Strange The Wise	Imperial Stout with Mexican Vanilla

Guest taps such as “State of Emergency” (Tokyo Aleworks) and “Herberg Lambiek” (Den Herberg) are also offered, allowing you to enjoy various styles of beer.

【Beginner’s Guide: IPA (India Pale Ale)】

IPA stands for “India Pale Ale,” a beer style that uses more hops than regular ale beer, characterized by stronger bitterness and aroma. It is said to have originated from adding many hops to beer to preserve it during the long sea journey from England to India. Modern IPAs have two main sub-styles: “West Coast IPA” with distinct bitterness, and “Hazy IPA (New England IPA)” with more fruity aromas and haziness.

【Tasting Report】Detailed Reviews of Beers Enjoyed at Inkhorn Brewing

Java Finch 2024 (ABV 7.0% / West Coast IPA)

A clear and beautiful West Coast IPA. The balance between resinous and citrus notes is superb, making you sigh with pleasure. The moment the bitterness emerges is precise, with the coldness of the alcohol and the grassiness of the hops beautifully harmonized. Released as a successor to the 2023 version, the 2024 edition uses Necanoic hops following the previous year’s Galaxy, and evolves the direction of clear IPA through blending with Citra hops.

Flavor Element	Intensity (1-5)	Characteristics
Bitterness	4/5	Clear and sharp yet careful rise in bitterness
Sweetness	2/5	Restrained, with gentle malt sweetness felt in the background
Acidity	1/5	Barely perceptible
Body	3/5	Medium and easy to drink
Aroma Intensity	4/5	Refreshing with notes of citrus and pine resin

Bird of Paradise (ABV 8.0% / Hazy Double IPA)

A Hazy Double IPA using Nelson hops as a single hop. Nelson hops are characterized by white grape-like aromas, but this beer allows you to enjoy various fruity nuances such as guava and mango as well. Despite its higher alcohol content, it’s easy to drink and you can savor its complex flavors. A collaboration with West Coast Brewing, showcasing brewing techniques that maximize the characteristics of hops.

Flavor Element	Intensity (1-5)	Characteristics
Bitterness	3/5	Well-balanced bitterness hidden within the fruity flavor
Sweetness	4/5	Rich sweetness reminiscent of tropical fruits
Acidity	2/5	Slight acidity reminiscent of white grapes
Body	4/5	Creamy and smooth mouthfeel
Aroma Intensity	5/5	Complex and strong aromas of guava, mango, white grapes, etc.

Another characteristic of Inkhorn’s beers is that many have bird-related names, such as the “Mejiro” series. “Mejiro #2” and “Mejiro #3” have received high ratings on Untappd, and the beer designs that express colors and flavor profiles reminiscent of the mejiro bird (Japanese white-eye) are also supported by fans.

Red IPA is Excellent

Personally, I think Inkhorn’s Red IPA is the best among Japanese Red IPAs. The resinous hop character and alcoholic bitterness are exquisite. Please try it if you come across it.

【Local Information】Atmosphere of Inkhorn Brewing’s Taproom and How to Order

Inkhorn Brewing’s taproom is a standing-style venue where you can enjoy beer in a casual atmosphere. One of the attractions is that you can see the large tanks used for brewing from inside the store, allowing you to feel close to the beer-making process. The interior, decorated with gentle touches and a modern atmosphere, warmly welcomes visitors. A magnificent mural of exotic birds is painted on the walls of the store, which is about a 10-minute walk Mejiro Tanakaya Bottle shop with a rich selection of craft beers 5-minute walk CoCo Ichibanya Curry House Standard curry chain, takeout available 7-minute walk 7-Eleven Mejiro Store Well-stocked with light meals like onigiri and sandwiches 3-minute walk

Click here for information about other breweries in Ikebukuro!

There are many other wonderful breweries in the Ikebukuro area. This area is truly known as a holy ground for craft beer. For detailed information, please see RIHOBEER’s Ikebukuro special page. It’s full of craft beer information around Ikebukuro.

Journey Through Japan’s Craft Beer Scene

The author, who lived in Japan until 2024, shares records of travels through craft beer scenes across the country. From Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south, visiting diverse breweries throughout Japan. Reports on experiencing Japanese craft beer culture, from brewery-owned taprooms to locally-rooted beer pubs. Content exploring the charm of Japanese craft beer in depth—seasonal limited brews, unique beers utilizing local ingredients, conversations with master brewers, and more—can be viewed from this tag page.

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

Journey Through American Craft Beer Scene

The author, currently living in Seattle, shares records of travels through the craft beer scenes in America and Canada. Publishing visit reports from popular breweries in Los Angeles to hidden gems in Portland, and unique taprooms in Vancouver across North America. Content that delves deeply into North American beer culture—limited beers that can only be tasted locally, dialogues with brewers, and more—can be viewed from this category page.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About the Brewery

Q: Can I tour the brewery at Inkhorn Brewing?

A: You cannot enter the brewery during normal business hours, but you can see the brewing equipment through glass from the taproom. During regularly held events, there may be brief explanation tours by the head brewer, so please check the official social media.

Q: Can I take beer to go?

A: Yes, it’s possible. They sell canned beer and also offer fills for growlers (specialized take-home containers). Take-home prices are listed on the menu board, so please ask the staff. Particularly popular limited beers may sell out quickly, so get them early.

Q: Is a reservation necessary?

A: You can usually use the facility without a reservation. However, during busy times like Friday night or Saturday afternoon, it may be difficult to secure a seat. For visits with large groups or during special events, it’s recommended to inquire in advance through official social media or email.

Q: Can craft beer beginners enjoy it too?

A: Absolutely! The staff are friendly and will respond attentively to beginners. If you tell them your preferences or the atmosphere you’d like to drink in, they’ll suggest recommended beers. There are also “flights” where you can taste a little bit of each, making it easy to explore your preferences.

Q: Do they serve food?

A: Inkhorn Brewing does not serve food, but bringing your own food is welcome. There are convenience stores and takeout-friendly restaurants nearby, so you can bring items purchased from there. However, as a consideration for other customers, please avoid items with strong odors.

【Summary】Inkhorn Brewing is a Paradise for Craft Beer Enthusiasts

Inkhorn Brewing is a brewery that represents Tokyo’s craft beer scene, offering a wide range of styles from Hazy IPAs to lagers. You can enjoy unique and high-quality beers such as the clear and beautiful WCIPA like Java Finch, and the complex-tasting Hazy Double IPA like Bird of Paradise.

Kind and friendly staff, a modern and warm atmosphere in the store, and of course the series of excellent beers, all captivate visitors. Furthermore, there are many breweries in the surrounding area, and it is no exaggeration to say that the Mejiro/Ikebukuro area is a holy ground for Japanese craft beer.

For craft beer lovers, Inkhorn Brewing is one of the must-visit places. Whether you casually drop by for a drink before dinner or take your time to compare various beers, enjoy Inkhorn Brewing’s beer in your own style. And by all means, try their latest limited-edition beers too!

【Reference Information】

The following sources were referenced in creating this article. (Referenced on April 22, 2025)

Time Out Tokyo – Inkhorn Brewing

Untappd – Inkhorn Brewing

Japan Beer Times – Inkhorn

BeerTengoku – Inkhorn Brewing in Mejiro, Tokyo

Taiheiyogan – Inkhorn Brewing

Inkhorn Brewing Official Website

RIHOBEER – Ikebukuro Special Page

※Information may change without notice. Please check the official social media or official website for the latest information.

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from Mejiro Station.

The staff are very kind and friendly. It’s impressive to see them working so cheerfully, and the atmosphere makes it easy to ask questions even on your first visit. They will respond politely to questions and consultations about beer, so craft beer beginners can also visit with peace of mind.

You are welcome to bring your own food, but as a consideration for other customers, please avoid items with strong odors. There are convenience stores nearby, so it’s recommended to prepare simple snacks like nuts and snack foods.

Crowd Conditions and Tips for Visiting

It can be very crowded on Friday evenings, Saturday afternoons, and during special events, and it may be difficult to secure a seat. However, normally you can drop in without a reservation. Many regulars seem to use it as a place to enjoy a drink before going to dinner parties.

Beers can be chosen from “Half” (260ml) and “Pint” (473ml) sizes, and prices vary depending on the beer. The menu board provides detailed information about the characteristics, style, alcohol content, etc. of each beer, which you can refer to when ordering.

How to Order at Inkhorn Brewing

At Inkhorn Brewing, you order directly at the counter. Please refer to the following steps to order with confidence, even for first-timers.

Step 1:	Go to the counter and order by saying “I’d like [beer name], please”
Step 2:	Choose the beer size (Half or Pint)
Step 3:	Pay on the spot (cash, credit card, electronic money accepted)
Step 4:	Receive your poured beer
Step 5:	Enjoy in an available space (standing style)

Feel free to ask questions like “What beer do you recommend?” or “Do you have any fruity beers?” The staff will respond politely.

【Must-See for Beer Lovers】Recommended Breweries & Restaurants Around Inkhorn Brewing

The Ikebukuro area is truly a craft beer paradise! There are many breweries and spots where you can enjoy craft beer around Inkhorn Brewing.

Recommended Beer Bars and Breweries Nearby

Takadanobaba Beer Dining	Within walking distance, enjoy craft beer with delicious food
Two Fingers	A beer bar with an atmosphere full of beer love
NAMACHAn Stand	A popular spot where you can enjoy unique beers. Their smoked beer is delicious.
Cycad Brewing	A popular brewery supporting the craft beer scene in the Ikebukuro area
Cranc	A noteworthy brewery with unique beers
Kampai! Brewing	Popular for craft beers with a Japanese feel
Tokyo Ale Works	A brewery with a diverse lineup

If you want to purchase takeaway beer, “Mejiro Tanakaya” is recommended. They handle many domestic and international craft beers, allowing you to enjoy Inkhorn’s beer at home as well.

Recommended Restaurants

If you want to enjoy a meal with beer, “Takadanobaba Beer Dining” is recommended. They offer delicious dishes that pair well with craft beer, allowing you to enjoy both food and beer. For those who want to enjoy beer more deeply, head to “Two Fingers.” You can enjoy conversations with knowledgeable staff in an atmosphere that strongly conveys a love for beer.

【Beginner’s Guide: Taproom】

A taproom is a dining space directly attached to a brewery. Since beer is served directly from the tap (the spout that pours from the keg), you can enjoy beer in its freshest state. Many taprooms are popular spots for craft beer fans because they sometimes offer limited beers or test brews that are not commercially available. A feature of Inkhorn Brewing’s taproom is that you can enjoy beer while seeing the brewing equipment up close.

【Basic Information】Overview of Inkhorn Brewing

Inkhorn Brewing was founded by Shun Nakade and his wife Amy Holdsworth. Nakade honed his brewing skills through his experience in America and opened a taproom in Mejiro in January 2021. The name “Inkhorn” refers to inkwells made from animal horns that were commonly used in Europe, and is borrowed from the tendency of British scholars and writers who used words borrowed from 16th-17th century classical literature. Also, the founding couple loves birds and keeps Java finches at home, which is why many beers have bird-themed names.

Featured in Time Out Tokyo magazine, the standing-style taproom, a 10-minute walk from Mejiro Station, is characterized by an open-air beer counter facing the road and a mural of exotic birds. The transparent brewing space with state-of-the-art brewing tanks is visible through large windows, with equipment capable of producing about 7 different types of beer at once. They say it takes about 3 weeks to brew beer and about 5 weeks to plan a new recipe, but they take pride in offering a combination of regular and new beers to be enjoyed by both regular customers and new visitors.

Many beer fans check in on Untappd, and popular beers such as the “Mejiro” series and “Bird of Paradise” receive high ratings.

Brewery Basic Information

Name	Inkhorn Brewing
Location	2-2-2 Mejiro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo
Business Hours	Weekdays: 17:00-23:00 / Weekends and holidays: 12:00-22:00 (※May change, please check the official SNS for the latest information)
Closed	Monday & Tuesday (※May change, please check the official SNS for the latest information)
Representative Beers	Mejiro, Flocc Members, Java Finch
Features	Offers a wide range of styles from Hazy IPA to lager. Proposes a new style called Neon Pilsner
Brewing Scale	Microbrewery (annual production about 300kL)
Food	Bring your own (please avoid strong-smelling items)
Reservation	Not required (except for events)
Payment Methods	Cash, credit cards, electronic money (※May change)
SNS & Reviews	Numerous reviews and check-ins on Untappd

【Beginner’s Guide: Microbrewery】

A microbrewery refers to a small-scale brewery with a relatively low annual production. In Japan, breweries with an annual production scale of less than 1,000kL generally fall into this category. They are characterized by small quantity, multiple variety brewing rather than mass production, and the appeal is that they often challenge with unique beers and experimental recipes. Inkhorn Brewing is also a typical microbrewery, carefully brewing a small amount of beers with their own unique character.

【Access Information】Inkhorn Brewing Location Information

Inkhorn Brewing is within walking distance from Mejiro Station, making it conveniently accessible. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Mejiro Station, located in a quiet residential area, so it might be a bit difficult to find, but the colorful sign serves as a landmark.

※Using navigation apps like Google Maps is convenient. You can easily find it by searching for “Inkhorn Brewing”.

【Local Gourmet Information】Characteristics of the Area Around Inkhorn Brewing and Nearby Restaurants

The Mejiro/Ikebukuro area is known as a holy ground for craft beer. In this area where many breweries gather, you can enjoy various styles of craft beer. It’s also bustling as a student town, with many reasonably priced restaurants scattered throughout.

If you want to enjoy a meal, “Takadanobaba Beer Dining” is recommended. They have a rich selection of dishes that go well with craft beer, allowing you to enjoy both beer and food. There are also many convenience stores and shops selling light meals in the surrounding area, so it’s a good idea to purchase light meals before enjoying beer at Inkhorn Brewing.

Nearby Recommended Restaurants	Features	Distance
Takadanobaba Beer Dining	Rich in dishes that go well with beer, abundant craft beer selection	15-minute この記事をシェアする タイトルとURLをコピー Twitterで新着情報を受け取る Instagramで新着情報を受け取る コメント Home Search Top Sidebar おすすめリンク ibubeerのブログサンフランシスコ在住のビアギークによるビールブログはこちら！ にほんブログ村 にほんブログ村