There’s nobody I know who doesn’t like chu-hi (which originated from the words shouchu highball — go figure). It’s a fizzy vodka-like liquor mixed with fruit juice which is especially a favourite in summer.

But this winter, the good people at Kirin ^[1] are not resting and have released a special Apple chu-hi this Christmas season.

^[2]

Chu-his can be very sweet so Kirin has “50% offu” (means half the calories) and chu-hi zero (which has no calories). Some people don’t fancy the saccharine taste but if you’re a Diet Coke fan, you would think it rocks.

^[3]

I’ve been trying to figure out why they are so popular and my conclusion is that it’s available in every conbini (convenient store), it’s affordable (250JPY for a regular can), it’s refreshing and it definitely packs a punch even after one or two, so don’t be fooled by its light taste.

To me, chu-his mean party in parks, cozy get-togethers at home, awesome music festivals, and lazy nights in front of the telly.

Top chu-his in my list:
Apple
Cherry
Kiwi

Photos: Kirin ^[4]