Sapporo marks 150 years as the iconic first beer of Japan

Carlsberg Malaysia celebrates Sapporo’s 150th-anniversary with a manga-inspired design campaign, blending comic art aesthetics with interactive events like the Samurai Slash Challenge and a grand prize trip to Japan.

Carlsberg Malaysia marks Sapporo’s 150th anniversary as Japan’s first iconic beer through special manga-inspired collectible cans, immersive pop-up experiences and nationwide consumer events. 

The milestone honours the brand’s heritage originating in 1876, highlighting pioneering brewing history and craftsmanship. 

The limited-edition can is curated in collaboration with renowned Japanese manga artist Hiroki Ishizawa. Through bold manga-inspired illustrations, the special-edition can packaging illustrates the historical journey of pioneering founder of Sapporo and legendary brewmaster Seibei Nakagawa, celebrating Japanese craft, culture and a 150-year legacy.

The design reflects the discipline behind Japanese craftsmanship and the pursuit of quality. Inspired by the adventurous spirit of founder Seibei Nakagawa and a resilience brewing tradition, Japan’s iconic Sapporo Beer was born. 

Carlsberg Malaysia managing director Stefano Clini said that consumers in Malaysia seek premium brands with a strong identity, authentic story and meaningful experiences. 

“The Sapporo limited-edition brings the brand’s story to life for consumers here, honouring its heritage as the iconic first beer of Japan while strengthening its relevance with discerning beer consumers,” he said.

Carlsberg Malaysia is the official manufacturer and distributor of Sapporo beer in Malaysia. 

Sapporo hosted its anniversary events in the Klang Valley through a series of lifestyle activations at Plaza Arkadia in Desa ParkCity from July 24 to 26 and Pavilion Bukit Jalil from July 31 to August 2.

At the ING Live Kuala Lumpur from July 31 to August 2, patrons engaged with manga-inspired displays, learned the “Perfect Pour” tapping technique, took part in the Samurai Slash Challenge gaming activity, and transformed their personal photos into authentic Japanese manga art styles directly on the Sapporo Beer MY platform.

The first 1,500 participants who uploaded and joined via the platform received a free personalized manga lanyard, and RM10 Shopee e-vouchers after the lanyards run out.

The top Sapporo spender at ING Live Kuala Lumpur won a RM30,000 trip for two to Sapporo, Japan, to discover the birthplace where the iconic 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.

Shoppers can also buy the 150th Annniversary promo pack that includes eight special cans and an exclusive 150th Anniversary glass modeled after Hokkaido’s Mount Yotei.

All promotional activities for Sapporo Premium Beer in Malaysia are strictly restricted to non-Muslims aged 21 and above, reinforcing a strong message to #CELEBRATERESPONSIBLY and never drive under the influence of alcohol.