Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)

Posted on July 20, 2015 | Last updated February 13, 2025

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
This is Japan's 6th Monster Energy, Monster Energy Ultra.
The Ultra series, which boasts world-class deliciousness with zero calories and zero sugar, has finally been released in Japan (●´ω｀●)
As a true energy drink enthusiast, I’m also sharing a comparison between the Ultra versions from Japan and the U.S.!

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)

Manufacturer	Monster Energy
Country of Origin	Japan
Price	190 JPY
Flavor
Total rating	★★★☆☆

Author information Author: Energy Drink-kun

In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.

Flavor of Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
When poured into a glass, the white Monster Energy appears slightly cloudy.
While this color doesn't feel special on its own, as the series expands with red, white, and blue, this white version starts to stand out as beautifully unique (●´ω｀●).

The scent is very subtle, almost undetectable. As for the taste, it is refreshing and light, much like the American Monster Energy Zero Ultra, with a flavor that doesn’t scream "zero-zero."

Overall, the main taste profile is similar to Calpis or sports drinks, with the sweetness and fragrance of lychee, along with a bit of acidity, combined with carbonation that ensures a lingering aftertaste.

The flavor profile of Ultra is strong. From the first sip to the aftertaste, it has a solid flavor without being overly lingering, and there’s no aftertaste of artificial sweeteners, making it very refreshing.
Drinking the Ultra on a hot summer day makes me realize it was the perfect choice to release it during the summer.

When compared to the limited-edition Red Bull Summer Edition, which was also released in the summer of 2015, the Ultra has a sweeter taste despite being zero-zero, making it feel a bit richer. I think this speaks to how well the Ultra has achieved a strong flavor while being zero-zero.

Energy Ingredients of Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)

It contains 142mg of caffeine, 444mg of arginine, 302mg of ginseng, and 103mg of carnitine.
With zero calories and zero sugar, the bold flavor of this Monster Energy blend definitely satisfies fans.

The artificial sweeteners used are sucralose and acesulfame K.

Design of Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
Like the American version, the can’s rough texture is maintained. Before its release, there were concerns that the can might be a simplified version, but since the global standard is being used, I never thought that would happen. The design shines with a silver finish, and I love how it doesn’t look like a typical energy drink but instead has a beautiful and unique look. I believe it stands out in Japan with its eye-catching colors and design.

I personally really like the slim 355ml silhouette. If they were to release the entire series in this design, the store displays would look incredible, but for now, it seems like this will remain a standalone product, rather than part of an Ultra series (；´∀｀).

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
The pull tab is black, maintaining the American Monster Energy brand even in Japan, which gives fans peace of mind.

The image of the Monster Energy brand and its energy drink-like colors and design really enhance the brand’s strength in Japan, and it’s great to see the "energy drink" vibe in stores (*´ｪ`*).

Comparing Monster Energy Ultra (Japan) with Monster Energy Zero Ultra

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
Monster Energy Ultra, the 5th flavor released in Japan.
Those who have been drinking the American Zero Ultra may have noticed, but I personally feel that the Japanese version is a bit milder. However, I believe both flavors are ultimately the same.

So this time, I compared Monster Energy Ultra Japan with the American Zero Ultra (*´艸｀*).

The American Zero Ultra is Overall Stronger and More Persistent

Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
When poured into a glass, the American Zero Ultra has a slightly stronger cloudiness. Before tasting, I feel that Zero Ultra appears to be a bit richer.
The scent of Zero Ultra is more citrusy, with a stronger fruity fragrance.

As for the taste, the Ultra is smooth and refreshing, with a sporty drink-like feel. It's well-balanced in sweetness and freshness, and the lychee flavor combines well, creating a perfectly balanced drink.

On the other hand, the American Zero Ultra has a stronger lychee flavor, and it retains a slightly chemical aftertaste. The flavor is much richer and heavier than Japan’s Ultra, and you wouldn't think it’s zero-calorie or zero-sugar. When compared side by side, it's clear that the American Zero Ultra doesn't give off the zero-feel at all (^_^;).

If I had to choose which one is better, I personally prefer the American version!
The Japanese Ultra has a different kind of freshness and satisfaction, so it could be considered a completely separate drink. The core flavor is the same, though.
Monster Energy Ultra (Japan)
Here’s a comparison between the silver tops. While the pull tab marking is a bit uneven, the can design is the same, and despite the flavor differences, both are delicious (●´ω｀●).