At first glance, you might assume Takohigh has something to do with octopus—after all, tako means octopus in Japanese. But don’t be fooled. This popular canned chuhai from Suntory has nothing to do with seafood and everything to do with pairing beautifully with your favorite Japanese dishes.
Let’s dive into what makes Takohigh special, why it’s become a hit, and how it earned its place as the go-to chuhai for meal lovers.
Not Octopus—But “Lots of Happiness”
Despite its quirky name, the “Tako” in Takohigh actually comes from the Japanese phrase “takusan no shiawase” (たくさんの幸せ), which means “lots of happiness.” It’s a playful branding choice meant to evoke joy and comfort—exactly what this drink aims to deliver.
The “high” refers to highball-style chuhais, popular in Japan as refreshing, lower-alcohol alternatives to beer or sake.
Flavor That Complements, Not Overpowers
What sets Takohigh apart from your typical canned chuhai is its use of roasted barley shochu as a base. This gives it a subtle toasty, nutty depth—a flavor profile rarely seen in the world of RTD (ready-to-drink) cocktails.
- Light citrus accents from added fruit juice provide a refreshing lift
- Moderate sweetness ensures it doesn’t clash with savory dishes
- Clean finish allows it to enhance—not compete with—your food
The result? A chuhai that’s designed not just for casual sipping, but for serious food pairing.
Built for the Table: A Meal-First Chuhai
Most canned chuhais are sweet, strong, and better suited for solo drinking. Takohigh was created to change that.
Suntory developed it to fill a gap in the market: a meal-friendly chuhai that could be enjoyed alongside dinner. Whether it’s a bowl of steaming oden or a plate of grilled fish, Takohigh holds its own without overwhelming delicate flavors.
This makes it a favorite for working professionals and home diners looking for something light, flavorful, and harmonious with Japanese cuisine.
Marketing That Sparked Curiosity
One reason for Takohigh’s rising popularity is its clever marketing.
Suntory asked viewers in commercials, “What does Takohigh taste like?” The question piqued curiosity—and once people tried it, the drink’s balanced flavor and food-friendly appeal turned first-timers into regulars.
The campaign highlighted not just the drink’s taste, but its role as a meal companion, a fresh take in a market flooded with fruit-forward RTDs.
Best with Japanese Dishes (But Not Only!)
Takohigh’s roasted barley character makes it especially good with:
- Dashi-rich foods like oden, nabe, and miso soup
- Grilled fish or yakitori
- Savory izakaya-style appetizers
- Even Western-style roast chicken or sautéed mushrooms
While the drink was originally marketed toward those in their 30s to 50s, its appeal is universal. Anyone who enjoys a balanced, refreshing alcoholic beverage that works well with food will likely find a place for Takohigh at their table.
Conclusion: A Chuhai That Belongs on Your Dinner Table
Takohigh isn’t just another canned cocktail—it’s a thoughtfully crafted drink that brings out the best in your meal. With its mellow roasted barley flavor, subtle sweetness, and clever branding, it has carved out a unique niche in Japan’s competitive RTD market.
Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night at home or hosting a dinner party, Takohigh offers an easygoing, flavorful companion to your favorite dishes. And now that you know it’s not made from octopus—you’ve got even more reason to give it a try.
