Ramune: Where to Find Japan’s Famous Lemonade

By Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, 2026-07-05

The distinctive pop of the falling marble, followed by the fizz of the bubbles: welcome to the unique experience of Ramune. Much more than just a Japanese soda, this drink is a true symbol of summer and festivals in Japan, an undisputed star of manga and anime. Its playful opening ritual and multiple flavours, from the most classic to the most surprising, are winning over fans across the globe.

But with an ever-expanding range of options, how do you choose? This guide is here to help you unlock the secrets of this Japanese lemonade and pick the flavour that will win you over, whether you're an aficionado of Japanese culture or simply curious and looking for a new taste experience.

How to Choose Your Ramune?

Before you dive in, here are a few tips to find the perfect Ramune.

1. Decoding the Flavours: From Classic to Original

Ramune is far from being limited to a single flavour. The original version, with its lemon-lime and bubble gum taste, remains a must-try. But the range has expanded considerably to satisfy every craving:

• Fruity Flavours: Strawberry Ramune is a classic, loved for its comforting sweetness. Other variations like lychee, melon, or peach are also a huge hit.
• Citrus Flavours: For a tangier wave of freshness, Yuzu Ramune is a sure bet. It unfolds the complex, floral notes of this iconic Japanese citrus.
• Bold Flavours: The more adventurous will be tempted by unexpected tastes, like Matcha Ramune, which blends the vegetal bitterness of green tea with the sparkling sweetness of the lemonade.

2. The Marble Bottle: More Than Just a Gimmick

The glass bottle, known as a "Codd-neck" bottle, is Ramune's visual signature. The concept behind this marble soda? A glass marble, held in place by the pressure of the gas, seals the drink. The opening process is an integral part of the fun: you have to use the small plunger provided in the cap to release the marble. It's a ritual that makes the experience memorable. Brands like Hatakosen Ramune are renowned for the quality of their bottles and the consistency of their flavours.

Recommended Ramune Drinks to Try

To guide your first steps or help you discover new horizons, here are our current top picks.

Hatakosen Ramune Strawberry Flavour 200 ml

Why we love it: This strawberry version is the ideal gateway into the world of Ramune. Its familiar, fruity taste makes it an accessible, indulgent drink that's a hit with everyone.

Highlights:

• An intense and refreshing strawberry flavour.
• A vibrant colour that adds to the fun.
• The ever-entertaining opening experience.

Who is it for? Perfect for those new to Ramune who love sweet, fruity flavours. It's also a guaranteed hit with kids and teens (note: the presence of E129 colouring requires adult supervision).

Hatakosen Ramune Original Flavour 200 ml

Why we love it: This is the iconic flavour, the one that forged the legend of this Japanese soda. Trying the original is like taking a quick trip to the heart of Japanese pop culture.

Highlights:

• The authentic and nostalgic lemon-lime taste.
• Fine bubbles and a perfect balance.
• The chance to discover the original flavour of Ramune.

For who? For the purists and for anyone who wants the most traditional Ramune experience. It's the essential starting point for understanding this world.

Hatakosen Ramune Yuzu Flavour 200 ml

Why we love it: Yuzu, the prized Japanese citrus with its complex fragrance somewhere between lime and grapefruit, brings a touch of sophistication here. An elegant, less sweet alternative to the classic fruity versions.

Highlights:

• An intense and delicately fragrant citrus flavour.
• A touch of originality and refinement.
• Ultra-refreshing, perfect as an aperitif or for a thirst-quenching break.

Who is it for? For citrus lovers and palates seeking more subtle, less conventional flavours. An excellent option for those who find classic sodas too sweet.

Hata Ramune Matcha Flavour 200 ml

Why we love it: Pairing matcha green tea with a carbonated drink is a bold move. This Ramune surprises with its perfect balance between the fine, vegetal bitterness of matcha and the sparkling freshness of the lemonade.

Highlights:

• A unique and memorable flavour combination.
• The authentic taste of matcha green tea.
• A taste experience that is truly off the beaten path.

Who is it for? For the curious, fans of matcha in all its forms, and those who aren't afraid of a surprise. A drink that leaves no one indifferent.

Want to Explore Other Flavours?

Our selection is just a taste of the treasures hidden in the world of Japanese drinks. To explore other Ramune flavours or unearth other equally original sodas, our full catalogue awaits.

? Discover our full range of 200 ml carbonated drinks

Ramune: Your Questions, Our Answers

Why is there a marble in a Ramune bottle?

The glass marble is a legacy of the 19th century, originating from a patent filed by the British inventor Hiram Codd. The pressure from the carbonation pushes the marble against a rubber gasket, hermetically sealing the bottle. While more modern caps exist, Japan has kept this system for its retro and fun aspect, which has become inseparable from the drink.

How do you open a Ramune bottle easily?

The opening process might seem intimidating at first, but it's actually very simple:

1. Remove the plastic wrapper from the cap.
2. Separate the plunger (the plastic piece) from the ring around it.
3. Place the plunger squarely on top of the marble.
4. Using the palm of your hand, press down firmly with a sharp push until the marble drops. Keep pressing for a second or two to prevent the soda from fizzing over. And there you have it, your marble soda is ready to enjoy!

What does original Ramune taste like?

Original Ramune has a unique flavour, often described as a mix of lemonade, lemon, and lime, with a surprising finish reminiscent of bubble gum. A sweet, fizzy, and ultra-refreshing taste, filled with nostalgia for those in the know.