Monster Energy Bottle Cans (473ml and 500ml) available only in Japan

Limited Edition Monster Energy 473ml Bottled Can Released

On August 7, 2018, the large 473ml bottled can was released in a limited edition. There were some requests for a larger size since people couldn't finish the drink all at once, and when the bottled can was released, it became a huge topic not only for the size increase but also because it was easier to carry around.

The 473ml Monster Energy bottled can itself uses the American-style cans from Ball, which are commonly found in the U.S.

This type of can is also used by the VENOM series of energy drinks in the U.S. You can see that the bottle cap is different from the ones used for Japan's Monster Energy bottles.

In the U.S., this type of can is also commonly used for beer and other drinks, making it perfect for chugging a drink straight from the big mouth (*´艸｀*).

Let’s zoom in on the bottle cap. It’s a Japanese-style Universal cap. The bottled cans are likely shipped to Japan, filled locally, and then sealed here.

Despite being priced at ¥296 (excluding tax), the product was well received, leading to the release of the 500ml size one year later, which became a regular product. The ability to save leftover drink in the bottle seems to have fulfilled a need that was more widespread than anticipated.

473ml SAMPLE Bottled Can

The Monster Energy 473ml bottled can was also released as part of a lottery campaign, with special "SAMPLE" labeled cans being delivered before the official release.

These sample cans were later sold in large quantities on platforms like Mercari, possibly by individuals involved with the product.

The 473ml Bottled Can Leaks Constantly

One major issue with the Monster Energy 473ml bottled cans was that they leaked easily. The leaks didn’t just happen between the bottle and the cap; they occurred from all parts of the can. Honestly, I couldn't understand why it leaked so much.

Even the bottom leaked! Terrible. I’ll call the 473ml “leaking cans.” pic.twitter.com/gUxWKBJgFy

— エナジー・ドリン君エナジードリンクマニア (@energydrinkun) April 1, 2020

Among the nearly 10,000 energy drinks I’ve purchased and stored from both domestic and international brands, the 473ml bottled cans ranked among the worst in terms of leakage. It seemed that American products were particularly prone to this issue.

There were instances where multiple cans leaked, causing mold to grow in the cardboard boxes. It was that bad.

Can you imagine half of the cans in a 24-can box leaking?

The 473ml bottled cans even emitted a scent from the box when I purchased them. I’ve heard from others who bought them that they noticed the smell before even opening the boxes.

I just bought my second box of 473ml!

If you've bought in bulk before, you know the smell that comes from the box

I think it’s from the liquid splashing when it was sealed… there seems to be some residue on the back#モンスターエナジー#エナジードリンクマニア pic.twitter.com/oE8K28aMIv

— エナジー・ドリン君エナジードリンクマニア (@energydrinkun) August 23, 2018

The leaking scent became a topic of conversation among people who bought boxes of the cans at the time. The bottom of the cans had visible residue as if the liquid had splashed during the sealing process.

500ml Big Bottled Can Becomes Regular Item

Released on July 30
Monster Energy 500ml Bottled Can is Huge
Campaign also starts!https://t.co/PrinOQXYXx pic.twitter.com/xrsiRLARPZ

— エナジー・ドリン君エナジードリンクマニア (@energydrinkun) July 29, 2019

One year after the release of the limited 473ml bottled can, the 500ml version was introduced, becoming a regular product with a sturdy can design unique to Japan. Unlike the previous cans, which were prone to leaks, the 500ml cans have never leaked.

Comparing the 473ml and 500ml bottled cans, the size difference and visual impact are immense. The 500ml can’s mouth is elevated compared to standard 500ml cans of juices or beers, giving it a more imposing presence. With its jet-black can and familiar Monster Energy logo, this product stands out as one of the most noticeable energy drinks in Japan. It’s a Japan-exclusive item, unlike anything available abroad.

Impact of the 500ml Monster Energy Bottled Can

I’ve lined up standard 355ml cans, the U.S. 710ml mega-sized cans, and the new 500ml Japanese bottled cans.

As you can see, the new 500ml bottled can makes a striking impression. Surprisingly, it even holds its own against the 710ml mega-size cans. And the sturdiness of the Japanese 500ml bottled can clearly beats the leak-prone overseas mega cans.

Also, the wide mouth of the bottle is perfect for adding ice. You can easily add 3-4 cubes after opening it.

I often take my time drinking, adding more ice as I go. It's a great way to enjoy the drink slowly. Be sure to try it!

Exclusive 500ml Bottled Can with Badge at 7-Eleven

In March 2021, 7-Eleven offered an exclusive 500ml Monster Energy bottled can with a badge. The price was the same, so buying the 500ml can from 7-Eleven felt like a great deal.

Monster Energy Super Cola Released in 500ml Bottled Can

Additionally, on March 30, 2021, the new Monster Energy Super Cola was released in a 500ml bottled can. This flavor is exclusive to the 500ml size and was never released in the standard 355ml