If you've ever wandered through a Japanese convenience store or sat down at a family restaurant in Japan, chances are you've spotted a neon-green drink that looks straight out of a video game. That’s Melon Soda—a fizzy, sweet, and incredibly nostalgic beverage that’s beloved by locals and tourists alike.
But what exactly is melon soda in Japan, and why is it so popular? Let’s dive into this iconic Japanese soft drink and why you need to try it at least once!
What Is Japanese Melon Soda?
Japanese Melon Soda (メロンソーダ) is a bright green, carbonated soft drink flavored to taste like melon—but not just any melon. It’s inspired by the sweet, juicy taste of Japanese muskmelons, especially the high-end Yubari or cantaloupe-style melons that Japan is famous for.
While the flavor is more artificial than real melon juice, that’s part of its nostalgic charm. Think of it like grape soda in the U.S.—sweet, colorful, and purely fun.
How Japanese People Drink Melon Soda
There are two main ways Japanese people enjoy melon soda:
-
Straight from the bottle or can – Available at almost every convenience store or vending machine.
-
Melon Soda Float (クリームソーダ) – The ultimate treat! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is added on top, turning the soda into a delicious dessert.
You’ll find melon soda floats on the menu at classic kissaten (Japanese cafés), karaoke joints, or family restaurants like Denny’s Japan and Gusto. It’s a retro favorite that’s making a huge comeback among younger generations.
Where to Try Melon Soda in Japan
Looking for the best places to try melon soda in Japan? Here are some popular spots:
-
Vending machines – Especially during summer, melon soda is everywhere!
-
Conbini (Convenience Stores) – 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart all stock melon soda brands.
-
Family Restaurants – Order a melon soda float at chains like Jonathan’s, Saizeriya, or Joyfull.
-
Cafés & Kissaten – Many retro cafés serve photogenic melon soda floats with cherries on top.
Why Is Melon Soda So Popular in Japan?
Melon soda isn’t just about taste—it’s about nostalgia and fun. For many Japanese people, it brings back childhood memories of birthday parties, game arcades, and family outings.
Its vibrant color and sweet flavor also make it super popular among teens and Instagram users. Whether you’re sipping it from a vending machine or enjoying it with a scoop of ice cream, melon soda is a quirky piece of Japanese culture you can taste.
How to Make Japanese Melon Soda at Home
Want to recreate this iconic drink in your own kitchen? Here’s how to make homemade melon soda—and even a melon soda float!
Simple Melon Soda Recipe
Ingredients:
-
1 cup club soda or sparkling water (chilled)
-
2–3 tablespoons melon syrup (see notes below)
-
Ice cubes
-
Optional: vanilla ice cream (for a float)
-
Optional: maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions:
-
Fill a glass with ice cubes.
-
Pour in the chilled club soda or sparkling water.
-
Add 2–3 tablespoons of melon syrup (adjust based on sweetness and flavor intensity).
-
Stir gently until combined.
-
Optional: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a melon soda float.
-
Garnish with a cherry and enjoy!
Fun Fact
In Japan, melon soda is often used as a base for creative cocktails and even desserts like jellies and cakes. It's also a frequent appearance in anime and manga scenes, adding to its nostalgic reputation.
Final Thoughts: Is Japanese Melon Soda Worth Trying?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a foodie, a soda lover, or just curious about Japanese culture, melon soda is a must-try drink when visiting Japan—or even from the comfort of your home.
It’s not about authentic fruit juice or health benefits—it’s about fun, flavor, and a sip of Japanese pop culture.
