This article will review the five best Japanese coffee makers.
After many hours of research, I have concluded that the best Japanese coffee maker is the Hario Woodneck Drip Pot. Because it brews great coffee for an affordable price.
Hario Woodneck Drip Pot: Best Overall
- Price: $
- Type: Drip Coffee Machine
- Dimensions: 0.16 x 0.16 x 0.28 in (D, W, H)
- Material: Glass
- Water capacity: 240-480 ml / 8-16 oz
- Warranty: 1 year
That said, it might not be the best for everyone. Thus I have picked four more.
Ready to make your best cup yet? Let’s dive into five top-notch Japanese coffee makers and what sets them apart.
Buckle up; this is going to be a caffeinated ride!
5 Best Japanese Coffee Makers
- Best Overall – Hario Woodneck Drip Pot
- Best Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Yama Glass Cold Brew Maker
- Best Pour-Over Coffee Maker – Osaka Pour-Over Coffee Maker
- Best Syphon Coffee Maker – Hario Glass Technica Syphon Coffee Maker
- Best Cold Brew Maker for Brewing Size – Variety Nispira Iced Coffee Cold Brew Dripper
Our Reviews of the Best Japanese Coffee Makers: Top 5 Picks
Here are short reviews of the best Japanese coffee makers.
1. Best Overall – Hario Woodneck Drip Pot
| Price * | $ |
| Type | Drip Coffee Machine |
| Dimensions | 0.16 x 0.16 x 0.28 in (D, W, H) |
| Material | Glass |
| Capacity | 240-480 ml / 8-16 oz |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Minimalist in design, yet powerful in performance, the Hario drip pot won me over. Its elegant aesthetic and affordable price point make it a worthy pick for home baristas at any experience level.
The unique reusable cotton coffee filter sets this device apart. Not only does it reduce waste, but it also allows for a slow, flavor-rich extraction, letting the precious coffee oils pass through. The result? A more nutrient-packed, full-bodied brew.
The Hario drip pot is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort yet rewarding a bit of patience with superior coffee. It’s ideally sized for solo users or small groups, serving up to four cups at once.
In a nutshell, this sleek little gadget is your ticket to leveling up your home coffee brewing experience. The Hario ensures maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Read more about Hario Woodneck Drip Pot here.
2. Best Japanese Cold Brew Coffee Maker – Yama Glass Cold Brew Maker
| Price * | $$$ |
| Type | Drip Coffee Machine |
| Dimensions | 9 x 12 x 25.4 in (D, W, H) |
| Material | Glass |
| Capacity | 950 ml / 32 oz |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Seeking the perfect cold brew maker? The Yama might just be the answer to your dreams. Designed for cold brew enthusiasts who can’t wait long, the Yama delivers faster extraction without compromising on taste.
Its design prioritizes convenience: brewing directly into a lidded decanter (included), you can easily store your delightful brew for later consumption.
The Yama lets you elevate your cold brew, using ice for cold temperature extraction, ensuring the smoothest flavor. An adjustable valve grants you control over the drip speed, tailoring the brew’s strength to your preference.
Sufficiently large to serve as one of the top 5-cup coffee makers, the Yama’s brewing quantity is adjustable, with its carafe capable of holding up to 8 cups.
In summary, the Yama is a treasure among cold brew makers – stylish, high-quality, and a creator of superb coffee. What more could you wish for?
3. Best Japanese Pour-Over Coffee Maker – Osaka Pour-Over Coffee Maker
| Price * | $ |
| Type | Pour Over |
| Dimensions | 10 x 6.38 x 6.3 in (D, W, H) |
| Material | Glass |
| Capacity | 500 ml / 17 oz |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Don’t be fooled by the Osaka pour-over coffee maker’s simplicity. This compact device packs a punch, brewing excellent coffee, being user-friendly, including a reusable filter, and all at a highly appealing price.
The filter is distinctively designed with double walls, ensuring even the smallest coffee grounds are captured. Additionally, it features unique curved channels for more balanced extraction.
The Osaka, a stylish glass pour-over brewer, suits any kitchen. It has a convenient collar in three colors to protect your hands during pouring. Additionally, it comes with a tight-fitting glass lid to prevent spills and keep your coffee warm for longer.
However, if you need your coffee to stay hot for an extended period, consider exploring top-rated thermal carafe coffee makers.
4. Best Japanese Syphon Coffee Maker – Hario Glass Technica Syphon Coffee Maker
| Price * | $ |
| Type | Syphon Coffee Maker |
| Dimensions | 16.34 x 4.92 x 6.5 in (D, W, H) |
| Material | Glass |
| Capacity | 600 ml / 20 oz |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Syphon coffee makers might not be for everyone, but the Hario model might just win you over. It’s renowned for its excellent quality and its ability to yield a truly exceptional cup of coffee (up to five cups, to be precise).
This device’s remarkable build quality is a testament to Hario’s long-standing experience. The company has been manufacturing heat-resistant borosilicate glass, including laboratory equipment, for nearly a century.
Though the Hario syphon might involve a bit of learning, the results are certainly worth it. This model yields a clean, smooth cup of coffee bursting with rich flavor.
Its cloth filter facilitates smooth extraction and doesn’t hold back the essential coffee oils.
Moreover, the device’s glass and steel components don’t retain odors, ensuring your coffee always tastes fresh. The Hario is a BPA-free coffee maker, making it safe for daily use.
In conclusion, while the Hario syphon might not be everyone’s first choice, if you’re after an impressively excellent cup of coffee, this device is certainly worth a try.
5. Best Cold Brew Maker for Brewing Size – Variety Nispira Iced Coffee Cold Brew Dripper
| Price * | $$ |
| Type | Drip Coffee Machine |
| Dimensions | 8 x 20 x 8 in (D, W, H) |
| Material | Glass |
| Capacity | 600 ml / 20 oz |
| Warranty | 1 year |
If you’re a coffee enthusiast or part of a coffee-loving family needing a large capacity cold brew maker, consider the Nispira. Available in 600 and 2,500 ml sizes, it allows you to brew ample coffee at once.
With its classy wooden elements and a robust steel frame for enhanced stability and durability, the Nispira presents a vintage appeal.
As an excellent coffee maker under $100, it doesn’t require a hefty investment. It swiftly brews coffee, eliminating long wait times.
Its adjustable valve enables control over drip speed, allowing you to customize the brew strength.
Though there may be minor drawbacks, the Nispira brews top-notch coffee and in large quantities – a feature many users would indeed value.
Distinct Traits of Japanese Coffee Culture
Coffee has been a common beverage in Japan since the early 1900s. This extensive history with coffee is likely why the Japanese have perfected the art of brewing this aromatic drink.
While numerous types of coffee and brewing techniques exist in Japan, the most popular ones are pour-over, cold brew, and syphon coffee makers.
These methods are also considered more traditional. While Italian espresso machines can be found in many Japanese coffeehouses, they are less widely embraced than the aforementioned brewing devices.
Japanese coffee culture gravitates towards slower brewing methods, which are believed to enhance the flavor profile.
While an excellent espresso machine can produce a bold, full-bodied drink, traditional Japanese coffee makers yield subtly different results.
Be it a cold brew maker, a pour-over, or a syphon, the coffee rendered is smoother, richer, with more intricate flavor notes and potentially a fruity aftertaste.
The slow brewing process allows the fruity and floral notes inherent in the coffee beans, which are essentially seeds, to fully emerge.
Therefore, Japanese coffee connoisseurs may not share the global enthusiasm for quick and convenient coffee makers like Keurig. While effortless brewing has its advantages, Japanese coffee tradition cherishes a more patient approach, all in the pursuit of exquisite taste.
Japanese Coffee Makers: Pour-over, Cold Brew, and Siphon Styles
You might have noticed the absence of percolators or espresso machines on this list. The reason is that these types of coffee makers aren’t as popular in Japan.
The three most common brewing methods in Japan are:
- Siphon
- Pour-over
- Cold brew drippers
The coffee produced by siphon and pour-over brewers tends to be quite similar.
Pour-over brewers produce a bright and acidic cup of coffee. These types of brewers are generally more affordable and offer a significant level of control over your brew.
However, they do require filters. While some models come with a reusable filter, many require consistent repurchasing of paper ones.
Some models even require a specific type of filter, which can be costly.
Siphon coffee makers operate using a vacuum to brew coffee. The outcome is a very smooth and intense cup of coffee.
Siphon brewers have an appealing aesthetic but are often pricey. Given they’re made of glass, handling them can be nerve-wracking.
However, they do not require constant filter replacement, and the absence of filters results in a purer coffee.
Finally, the third most popular type is the cold brew coffee maker, available in various sizes and designs. Typically made of glass, plastic options are also available at lower prices.
Cold brew coffee has a fuller body and less acidity than coffee made with other methods.
In essence, the most prevalent Japanese coffee brewers are pour-over, siphon, and cold brew dripper.
Size Considerations
Counter space is a crucial factor when choosing a coffee maker.
Most pour-over brewers attach directly to the cup, thus taking up very minimal storage space.
On the other hand, siphon coffee makers tend to be quite tall, so it’s essential to measure the space between your counter and wall cabinets before purchasing one.
Cold brew drippers come in a range of sizes, and you can undoubtedly find something suitable even for small kitchen spaces.
In summary, pour-over brewers are the smallest, siphon brewers the largest, and cold brew drippers fall somewhere in between.
How Do Japanese Cold Brew Coffee Makers Work?
Cold brew is a completely different method compared to iced coffee or frappé, which are often confused. Unlike these, cold brew requires a significant amount of time – up to 24 hours.
Despite the lengthy process, it results in a uniquely flavored brew with a long-lasting aftertaste.
It’s important to note that cold brew coffee in Japan is primarily made using the slow-drip method, not the immersion method where coffee grounds steep in cold water overnight.
The immersion method is less popular in Japan due to its tendency to produce a lot of sediment and offer a less pronounced flavor.
So, how does one prepare Japanese cold brew coffee?
The process requires a unique tall coffee maker composed of three parts, similar to a pour-over, but functioning differently.
The slow-drip brewer’s upper tank is filled with water, with a valve allowing adjustment to a flow of one drip at a time.
This water then drips into the second section, which contains a filter and coffee grounds. The filtered coffee subsequently flows into the carafe or mug at the bottom, ready for consumption.
Despite the time commitment, this slow-drip method is undoubtedly worth it. The coffee it produces is bold, less acidic, and fruitier in flavor.
This method is excellent for any roast and flavor profile because the cold water extraction eliminates any potential bitter or stale notes in the final product.
Japanese Siphon Coffee Makers Explained
If you’re fascinated by the scientific aspects of brewing, a siphon coffee maker could be your perfect match!
With a design that resembles laboratory equipment more than a typical coffee maker, this brewing device offers a unique and intriguing approach to making coffee.
A siphon coffee maker, also known as a vacuum pot, relies on pressure and temperature changes to brew coffee. It comprises two chambers connected by a siphon tube and sealed together with a rubber gusset to ensure an airtight fit.
The lower chamber is filled with water and heated either by a stovetop or an in-built heating mechanism.
As the water heats, the pressure from the water vapor increases, forcing the water to ascend through the siphon tube into the upper chamber containing the coffee grounds.
The crucial part of this process is slowly heating the water and maintaining a steady pressure level until all the water transfers into the upper chamber, submerging the coffee grounds entirely.
When the heat source is removed, the temperature drops, creating a vacuum in the lower chamber that draws the brewed coffee back through a filter.
While using a siphon coffee maker might seem complex initially, the quality of the brew it produces is remarkable. It yields a clean, full-bodied cup with a distinct flavor profile that highlights the subtler notes in the coffee.
If you’ve struggled to identify those elusive caramel or cherry undertones in your brew before, a siphon coffee maker might just help you discern them.
Choosing Your Japanese Coffee Maker: A Comprehensive Guide
Ready to dive into the wonderful world of Japanese coffee brewing? Excellent choice! However, as you’re likely aware, buying a coffee maker isn’t as simple as picking up the first one you see.
Multiple factors need to be considered to ensure you’re making the best possible investment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you narrow down your choices:
Set Your Budget
Prices for Japanese coffee makers vary significantly, with differences in style, materials, and brand all influencing cost.
Before you start shopping, decide on your budget to avoid getting carried away and overspending.
Keep in mind that standalone drippers will generally be cheaper than pour-overs or siphons, and plastic components will be less expensive than glass or metal ones.
Hot or Cold Brew?
Both brewing methods have their merits. Cold brew, while time-consuming, results in a smooth, sweet, and low-acid coffee.
On the other hand, hot brewed coffee offers a bright, aromatic cup with a touch of bitterness and fruitiness. Your preference will depend on your personal taste and patience.
How Much Coffee Do You Drink?
Coffee makers come in a variety of sizes. Single-serve drippers are ideal for solo drinkers, while pour-overs, siphons, or cold brew makers will serve those who drink larger quantities or live with other coffee drinkers.
If unsure, consider a dual coffee maker. For those who only need one cup a day, a single-serve coffee maker might be sufficient.
Check the Materials
Top-quality coffee makers (Japanese brewers included) tend to use durable materials like glass and steel.
You’ll find cheaper options made from plastic, but if your budget allows, consider investing in glass or steel for longevity and aesthetics.
Consider Your Kitchen Space
Some Japanese coffee makers can be quite tall, potentially causing a problem in kitchens with limited countertop space.
If space is an issue, a smaller pour-over or siphon may be more appropriate.
Think About Coffee Filters
Consider whether you’re willing to purchase new paper filters for your pour-over regularly. If not, a siphon with a reusable filter might be a better fit.
Many cold brew makers and some pour-over models also come with washable filters.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Some brewers, like siphons, will come with all the necessary components. However, for pour-over brewing, you’ll need a kettle, filters, and potentially a water thermometer for precise brewing.
Don’t forget the most important accessory – a grinder. High-quality grinders can be expensive but are worth the investment for the freshest possible coffee.
Think About Portability
If you’re planning to move or transport your coffee maker frequently, consider the size and fragility of the model.
Smaller drippers, which can be made from various materials, may be a more suitable choice.
SCA-certification
Lastly, it’s worth noting that if you’re specifically seeking a Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)-certified coffee maker, you might not find a Japanese model that fits the bill.
This is primarily because most Japanese coffee makers are manual or semi-manual, making them incompatible with the technical specifications SCA uses to evaluate home brewers.
But this certainly doesn’t mean that Japanese coffee makers are inferior – quite the contrary.
They offer a unique, controlled, and customizable brewing experience that coffee aficionados cherish.
FAQ
How is Japanese iced coffee brewed?
There are few methods of brewing Japanese coffee. The easiest way is to just pour hot water coffee onto the ice. This allows for rapid extraction of aromatic compounds and the ice locks them in your cup.
Another option is long-time steeping in iced water using a special Kyoto set that consists of three glass chambers separated by valves. The top chamber contains the water and has a valve for drip adjustments.
The medium chamber contains ground coffee and is connected to the bottom chamber via a spiral glass tube. Brewing coffee in the Kyoto set requires a fine, medium-roasted grind, and takes 3-4 hours.
How much caffeine does Japanese iced coffee contain?
The caffeine content in cold brew coffee can vary greatly.
The general amount of caffeine per cup in most coffee shops is 125-150 mg. If you make your own cold brew, note that the longer it steeps, the more caffeine it will have.
How to make the coffee stronger?
You can make a strong brew either by using a specialty coffee blend with a stronger taste or by increasing your brew ratio, meaning that you use more coffee grounds for the same amount of water.
Increasing steeping time can also do the trick, but if you steep your cold brew for too long, it might develop a bitter taste.
Which coffee bean grind should I use for siphon coffee makers?
Most baristas recommend a medium-coarse grind for siphon coffee makers. This grind is good for long-time steeping and delivers a balanced flavor profile.
Conclusion
Choosing a Japanese coffee maker involves carefully considering your preferences, time constraints, and budget.
While the brewing process can be more involved than typical coffee makers, the results are a unique, flavorful cup of coffee. I recommend the Hario Woodneck Drip Pot as an affordable and versatile option.
Whether you prefer a hot or cold brew, each Japanese brewing method offers a unique taste experience. I encourage you to give it a try and discover a new way of enjoying coffee.
Hario Woodneck Drip Pot: Best Overall
- Price: $
- Type: Drip Coffee Machine
- Dimensions: 0.16 x 0.16 x 0.28 in (D, W, H)
- Material: Glass
- Water capacity: 240-480 ml / 8-16 oz
- Warranty: 1 year
