These Japanese Beer Cans Pay Tribute to Traditional Woodblock Art
Laura McQuarrie — May 17, 2017 — Lifestyle
References: mitsukoshi.mistore.jp & en.rocketnews24
Three of the most popular beer brands in Japan—Asahi, Ebisu and Suntory—teamed up with the Tokyo National Museum to create a unique set of Japanese beer cans.
As part of the collaboration, limited-edition cans of Asahi Dry Premium, Yebisu Beer and Suntory’s The Premium Malts feature artwork that reminds of traditional woodblock prints. This includes the images of famous works of artists like Toshusai Sharaku and Utagawa Hiroshige. While it has become common to see hand-drawn illustrations on modern craft beer bottles, these designs bring recognition to some of the most famous pieces of art that have come out of Japan using woodblock printing techniques.
These special-edition collectible Japanese beer cans launched with the Tokyo National Museum are being sold in packs of 12, which have specifically been packaged as perfect midsummer gifts.
As part of the collaboration, limited-edition cans of Asahi Dry Premium, Yebisu Beer and Suntory’s The Premium Malts feature artwork that reminds of traditional woodblock prints. This includes the images of famous works of artists like Toshusai Sharaku and Utagawa Hiroshige. While it has become common to see hand-drawn illustrations on modern craft beer bottles, these designs bring recognition to some of the most famous pieces of art that have come out of Japan using woodblock printing techniques.
These special-edition collectible Japanese beer cans launched with the Tokyo National Museum are being sold in packs of 12, which have specifically been packaged as perfect midsummer gifts.
Trend Themes
1. Packaging as Art - Beer companies can team up with museums or artists to provide limited-edition collections of cans that showcase art as packaging.
2. Cultural Celebration - Celebrating local cultures through art on beer cans creates buzz and fosters engagement with local consumers.
3. Collectible Cans - Collaborating with artists and museums to create collectible cans can increase customer loyalty and create a niche market for beer enthusiasts.
Industry Implications
1. Alcohol - Beer companies can drive sales and engagement by incorporating art on their cans especially in cultures that put a premium on traditional art and aesthetics.
2. Museums - Museums can partner with businesses to showcase their collections and drive awareness about the history, art and cultural expressions of their communities.
3. Tourism - Offering limited edition art-inspired beer cans creates an opportunity to drive tourism in specific communities and attract cultural tourists looking to collect unique memorabilia surrounding their trip.
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