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10 Best Japanese Soy Sauce 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Dark Sweet Japanese Premium Gourmet Barrel Aged 4 Year Soy Sauce "Tsuru Bisiho", 18oz (532ml) (18oz, 1)… (1 Pack)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,251
Ingredients
Fermentation Time
Flavor Profile

Most important from
3882 reviews

Ingredients
With no artificial preservatives, additives, or coloring agents, this soy sauce is a pure and natural choice for health-conscious consumers.
Fermentation Time
Yamaroku Shoyu uses a natural fermentation process in traditional wooden barrels, resulting in a deep, complex flavor profile that's rich in umami.
Flavor Profile
This soy sauce is not just salty; it offers a deep, full, and complex flavor that's amazing on sashimi and other dishes.

Yamaroku Shoyu Pure Artisan Dark Sweet Japanese Premium Gourmet Soy Sauce is a high-quality option for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors. This soy sauce is brewed and aged for 4 years using traditional methods and 100-year-old Kioke wooden barrels. The simple ingredients include soy beans, wheat, salt, and water, without any added preservatives, artificial coloring, or fillers, making it a natural choice for health-conscious consumers.

Its long fermentation time results in a rich, mellow, and well-rounded flavor profile described as containing balanced umami and a hint of sweetness. The soy sauce is versatile, recommended for use with sushi, sashimi, tofu, grilled fish, and as an ingredient in Ponzu and Teriyaki sauces or ramen bowls. It even pairs uniquely with vanilla ice cream, adding a caramel-like flavor.

However, the product comes in a glass dispenser bottle, which may be less convenient for some users compared to more traditional plastic bottles. Additionally, while its premium quality justifies its price, it may be more expensive than other soy sauces on the market. Those looking for the utmost authenticity and gourmet experience in their soy sauce will find Yamaroku Shoyu to be an excellent choice.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,251
Ingredients
Fermentation Time
Flavor Profile

Most important from
3882 reviews

Ingredients
With no artificial preservatives, additives, or coloring agents, this soy sauce is a pure and natural choice for health-conscious consumers.
Fermentation Time
Yamaroku Shoyu uses a natural fermentation process in traditional wooden barrels, resulting in a deep, complex flavor profile that's rich in umami.
Flavor Profile
This soy sauce is not just salty; it offers a deep, full, and complex flavor that's amazing on sashimi and other dishes.
#2

Soy Sauce Double Brewed Vintage 1000 Days Aged, Japanese Artisanal Handmade, Naturally Brewed, No Additives, Non-GMO, Made in Japan(360ml)【YAMASAN】

Rating
9.8
Salt Content
Flavor Profile

Most important from
2167 reviews

Salt Content
Perfect for sushi, with no chemical taste and not too salty.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of this soy sauce far surpasses anything found in the grocery store.

The YAMASAN KYOTO UJI Soy Sauce is a premium, artisanal Japanese soy sauce that stands out due to its double brewing process and extensive aging period of 1000 days. This extended fermentation time results in a rich, deep umami flavor that can elevate simple dishes to gourmet status. The soy sauce is made with high-quality, non-GMO soybeans and wheat, naturally sun-dried sea salt, and pure soft water from the Ibo River, ensuring a pure and authentic taste without any additives.

The traditional brewing methods used by experienced craftsmen from the Tatsuno region, a place with over 400 years of soy sauce brewing history, further enhance its quality and authenticity. This sauce is perfect for those who appreciate rich, complex flavors and are looking for an authentic Japanese culinary experience. However, its strong flavor might not suit those who prefer a milder soy sauce. Additionally, the premium quality and artisanal production process make it a more expensive option compared to regular soy sauces. This soy sauce is ideal for culinary enthusiasts and those seeking an exceptional condiment to enhance their dishes.

Rating
9.8
Salt Content
Flavor Profile

Most important from
2167 reviews

Salt Content
Perfect for sushi, with no chemical taste and not too salty.
Flavor Profile
The flavor of this soy sauce far surpasses anything found in the grocery store.
#3

Soy Sauce Artisanal Classic 500 Days Aged, Japanese Premium Handmade, Naturally Brewed, No Additives, Non-GMO, Made in Japan(360ml)【YAMASAN】

Rating
9.7
Salt Content
Flavor Profile

Most important from
2167 reviews

Salt Content
Perfect for sushi with no chemical taste and not overly salty, making it a standout choice.
Flavor Profile
The flavor far surpasses anything found in the grocery store; there's literally no comparison.

The YAMASAN KYOTO UJI Soy Sauce is an artisanal classic that stands out for its traditional and natural brewing process. Aged for over 500 days, this soy sauce offers a depth of flavor that includes a rich umami, mellow sweetness, refreshing sourness, and elegant bitterness. This complexity makes it a versatile addition to various recipes, from steak sauces to gumbo, enhancing the taste of other ingredients beautifully.

The use of carefully selected non-GMO soybeans and wheat, along with natural sun-dried sea salt and super soft water from the Ibo River, ensures a high-quality product without any additives. The craftsmanship involved in its production is notable, with Japanese artisans overseeing the process to ensure excellent quality and flavor, reflecting over 100 years of traditional methods.

However, those who are sensitive to gluten should be cautious, as the product contains gluten. Additionally, the premium nature of this soy sauce might make it more expensive compared to mass-produced alternatives, but for those who appreciate authentic and deeply flavored soy sauce, it is worth the investment. This product would be particularly appealing to culinary enthusiasts who value high-quality ingredients and traditional brewing methods.

Rating
9.7
Salt Content
Flavor Profile

Most important from
2167 reviews

Salt Content
Perfect for sushi with no chemical taste and not overly salty, making it a standout choice.
Flavor Profile
The flavor far surpasses anything found in the grocery store; there's literally no comparison.

Buying Guide for the Best Japanese Soy Sauce

Choosing the right Japanese soy sauce can greatly enhance your culinary experience. Soy sauce is a staple in Japanese cuisine, used for seasoning, marinating, and as a dipping sauce. The key to picking the best soy sauce for you lies in understanding the different types and their unique characteristics. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting Japanese soy sauce.
TypeJapanese soy sauce comes in several types, including Koikuchi, Usukuchi, Tamari, and Shiro. Koikuchi is the most common and versatile, suitable for a wide range of dishes. Usukuchi is lighter in color but saltier, often used in Kansai cuisine. Tamari is thicker and less salty, ideal for those with gluten sensitivities as it is often made without wheat. Shiro is very light in color and used in dishes where you don't want to alter the color of the ingredients. Choose the type based on the specific dishes you plan to prepare and your dietary needs.
IngredientsThe ingredients in soy sauce can affect its flavor and quality. Traditional Japanese soy sauce is made from soybeans, wheat, salt, and water. Some may include additional ingredients like alcohol or preservatives. For a more authentic and rich flavor, look for soy sauces with minimal and natural ingredients. If you have dietary restrictions, such as gluten intolerance, check for Tamari or other gluten-free options. Your choice should align with your dietary preferences and the flavor profile you desire.
Fermentation TimeThe fermentation time of soy sauce can range from a few months to several years. Longer fermentation times typically result in a deeper, more complex flavor. Shorter fermentation times produce a lighter and more straightforward taste. If you prefer a robust and rich flavor, opt for soy sauces that have been aged longer. For a milder taste, choose those with shorter fermentation periods. Consider the intensity of flavor you want in your dishes when selecting based on fermentation time.
Salt ContentSalt content in soy sauce can vary significantly. Regular soy sauce has a high salt content, which can enhance the flavor of dishes but may not be suitable for those on a low-sodium diet. Low-sodium soy sauces are available and can be a good alternative if you need to reduce your salt intake. When choosing soy sauce, consider your dietary needs and the balance of flavors in your cooking. If you are sensitive to salt or need to watch your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium versions.
Flavor ProfileThe flavor profile of soy sauce can range from sweet and mild to rich and umami. Some soy sauces have a more pronounced soy flavor, while others may have hints of sweetness or smokiness. The flavor profile you choose should complement the dishes you plan to prepare. For example, a sweeter soy sauce might be better for teriyaki, while a richer, umami-packed soy sauce could be ideal for sushi or sashimi. Think about the types of dishes you enjoy and select a soy sauce that will enhance those flavors.
ColorThe color of soy sauce can vary from light to dark. Darker soy sauces tend to have a stronger flavor and are often used in cooking to add depth and color to dishes. Lighter soy sauces are used when you want to season without significantly altering the color of the food. Choose the color based on the visual and flavor impact you want in your dishes. For example, use darker soy sauce for braised dishes and lighter soy sauce for clear soups or dressings.

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