Despite the perception that Japanese people are heavy drinkers, statistics show that Japan ranks 53rd in the world for per capita alcohol consumption. While alcohol has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries, there is a strong emphasis on drinking responsibly. Beer has become the most consumed alcoholic beverage in recent years, and while regular drinking is common, it may not necessarily lead to heavy consumption. Alcoholism does still exist in Japan, but there is a cultural stigma surrounding heavy drinking. Regardless of whether or not heavy drinking is prevalent in Japan, excessive alcohol consumption can have negative impacts on health. Companies in Japan have implemented various measures to promote responsible drinking practices.