Menu

Sapporo Marks 150 Years as the Iconic First Beer of Japan

A manga-inspired limited-edition can design and immersive lifestyle experiences honour a brewing legacy shaped by Japanese artistry, precision and craftsmanship since 1876

SHAH ALAM, 5 August 2026 – Behind every Sapporo brew and every manga illustration lies the same dedication to craftsmanship, quality and mastery. As Sapporo marks 150 years as the Iconic First Beer of Japan, Carlsberg Malaysia brings that spirit of Japanese craftsmanship to life through manga-inspired limited-edition cans and immersive lifestyle experiences in Malaysia that celebrate Sapporo's brewing heritage dating back to 1876.

At the heart of the celebration is a limited-edition can curated in collaboration with renowned Japanese manga artist Hiroki Ishizawa. Featuring the founder of Sapporo, Seibei Nakagawa, the design reflects the discipline behind Japanese craftsmanship and the pursuit of quality. From his adventurous spirit and resilience to his unwavering dedication to brewing, a remarkable beer was born. Through bold manga-inspired illustrations, the limited-edition cans transform Sapporo's 150-year journey into a collectible expression of Japanese craft, culture and creativity.

Consumers can now journey through Sapporo's 150-year legacy at their fingertips, as the brand's story comes to life through a dedicated manga-inspired anniversary experience. Discover the Iconic First Beer of Japan's digital story at https://www.sapporobreweries.com/brands/spb/150th/en/.

"In Malaysia, consumers are increasingly drawn to premium brands that offer more than quality alone, brands with a strong identity, authentic stories and experiences that feel meaningful. The Sapporo limited-edition series brings the brand's story to life for consumers here, honouring its heritage as the Iconic First Beer of Japan while strengthening its relevance among discerning beer consumers," said Stefano Clini, Managing Director of Carlsberg Malaysia.

While the anniversary pays tribute to Sapporo's heritage, the celebration also invites consumers to experience Japanese craftsmanship in Sapporo's own way. Through Sapporo's website, https://www.sapporobeermy.com/, consumers can upload a photo and see themselves reimagined as a manga character inspired by Japanese illustration styles. The first 1,500 participants will receive a complimentary personalised manga lanyard delivered directly to their doorstep. After all lanyards have been redeemed, participants will receive a RM10 Shopee e-voucher for their next purchase of Sapporo Premium Beer.

In addition, Sapporo brought its anniversary celebrations across the Klang Valley through a series of lifestyle activations. Following immersive brand experiences at Plaza Arkadia, Desa ParkCity from 24 to 26 July 2026 and Pavilion Bukit Jalil from 31 July to 2 August 2026, the celebration continues at ING Live Kuala Lumpur. Consumers can immerse themselves in Sapporo's 150-year journey through manga-inspired installations, capture personalised moments at the AR photobooth and take on interactive experiences inspired by Japanese brewing craftsmanship.

At ING Live Kuala Lumpur, consumers can put their speed and precision to the test in the Samurai Slash Challenge and master the 'Perfect Pour' beer-tapping experience, offering a playful nod to the artistry and craftsmanship that have defined Sapporo for generations. Adding to the excitement, the top Sapporo spender at ING Live Kuala Lumpur will win a RM30,000 trip for two to Sapporo, Japan, discovering the city where the brand first began.

The celebration also extends to selected super-hypermarkets across Peninsular Malaysia, where consumers can participate in the Samurai Slash Challenge and redeem personalised manga lanyards with the purchase of Sapporo products, while stocks last.

Shoppers can also look out for Sapporo's limited-edition 150th Anniversary promotional pack, featuring eight limited-edition cans and an exclusive Sapporo 150th Anniversary glass inspired by Mount Yotei in Hokkaido, the birthplace of Sapporo Premium Beer, available for a limited time only.

Together, these anniversary experiences bring 150 years of Japanese craftsmanship to life in contemporary and memorable ways, from collectible can designs and manga-inspired experiences to moments shared over a glass of Sapporo.

For more information and the latest updates, visit and follow @SapporoMY on Facebook and Instagram. All promotions and activities are open to non-Muslims aged 21 and above. When purchasing and enjoying Sapporo Premium Beer, remember to always #CELEBRATERESPONSIBLY: if you drink, don't drive.

Press

If you represent the media - print, online, radio or tv - please address enquiries concerning Carlsberg Group to:

Manager, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability

Wong Ee Lin

Tel 03-5522 6414 Email [email protected]
Photo 6

Sapporo's limited-edition 150th Anniversary promotional pack celebrates 150 years of Japanese craftsmanship

Photo 2

Consumers take part in Sapporo's 'Perfect Pour' experience, a hands-on activation inspired by the precision and craftsmanship that have defined Japan's iconic first beer since 1876.

Photo 5

Consumers reimagined themselves as manga characters at Sapporo's 150th anniversary experience at ING Live Kuala Lumpur.

Photo 1

Sapporo's 150th anniversary activation at Plaza Arkadia, Desa ParkCity

Photo 3

Consumers raised a toast to 150 years of Sapporo's brewing heritage.

Photo 4

Consumers celebrated Sapporo's 150-year brewing heritage with the limited-edition anniversary cans.

Photo 7

Sapporo brought 150 years of Japanese craftsmanship to life through its anniversary celebration at Pavilion Bukit Jalil.