Not many things come free in this economy, but an artistic experience that comes with free beer is certainly worth raising a glass to. That’s what you’ll find at Kirin Ichiban’s First Press Studio pop-up at Swee Lee Clarke Quay, happening from now till 6th September 2026.
Step into the immersive space to explore art installations while discovering the story behind the iconic lager. And yes, admission is free of charge.
For the uninitiated, Kirin Ichiban is a famous Japanese all-malt beer known for its unique brewing method, known as the First Press Method.
The brand has a presence in over 40 countries worldwide, cementing its place as one of Japan’s most popular beer exports.
At the heart of Kirin Ichiban is its signature First Press Method, introduced in 1990. Using 100% malt, Kirin only uses the 1st press to brew its beer, resulting in a smooth, refined taste with a clean finish. More than 35 years on, this distinctive brewing method remains a defining part of the brand.
The pop-up brings the First Press philosophy to life through the work of 3 Singapore-based artisans, each putting their own creative spin on the brewing concept. Their creations show how the idea of “First Press” can extend beyond the beer itself.
Start by picking up a white card at the pop-up’s entrance, which you’ll use to mark your progress. At each of the stations, you’ll receive a stamp, with each one adding a new element and splash of colour to the design. Collect all the stamps to see the illustration come together into a complete artwork.
A few steps into the store, you’ll come across a giant mirror adorned with an intricate, hand-painted Kirin Ichiban logo. Titled Old World Charm by sign painter Charmaine Chen, the artwork combines gold leaf with traditional sign-painting techniques, with every detail carefully pressed and shaped.
As we took a closer look at the painting, we were amazed by just how much detail had gone into it. Knowing that it was hand-painted made it even more impressive, with the meticulous work behind each curve and stroke showcasing the artist’s skill.
Next up is Who Eats Art by food artist Gong Hua, which caught our attention with a rather unusual centrepiece: a custom beer dispenser. Made from recycled materials including fabric, pressed malt fragments, and melted Kirin bottles and cans, the installation turns the First Press process into an artwork.
You can even give the dispenser a press yourself and see how malt liquid is extracted.
The most visually striking installation has to be Baremetal by Matthias Yong, featuring a metal sculpture of the Kirin, a mythical creature symbolising joy and prosperity.
Perched atop a cloud, the creature is shaped from raw metal and refined through metalworking, giving us a glimpse into how a rough, industrial material can be transformed into a detailed work of art.
Once you’ve collected all 3 stamps, head to the bar, where you’ll get to see firsthand how Kirin Ichiban’s much-talked-about First Press Method works. Through a guided demonstration, you’ll learn about the 4 simple ingredients that go into the beer, along with the extraction process that draws out only the purest wort that gives the drink its rich and smooth taste.
You can also try your hand at the Ichiban Pour, using the signature 45° pouring technique before enjoying the complimentary glass you’ve poured yourself. Just be sure to time your pour carefully so it doesn’t overflow, which was something we learnt the hard way. Do note that this is only available for visitors aged 18 and above.
Don’t leave without picking up a personalised Kirin Good Fortune Charm, which you can customise with various blessing stamps to create a unique keepsake to take home.
If you are looking to get hands-on with Japanese craftsmanship, The First Press Workshop offers you the chance to pick up 2 different traditional crafts.
Choose between the Kumiko Coaster Making Workshop from 28th to 30th August, where you’ll piece together individual wooden components to create a traditional Kumiko coaster without using a single nail, or the Shibori Bandana Experience from 4th to 6th September, where you’ll experiment with different Shibori techniques to create your own cotton bandana.
Each workshop lasts an hour and costs $15 per person. This includes all the materials you’ll need, a handcrafted piece to take home, and a complimentary glass of Kirin Ichiban beer. Each session is limited to 15 participants, so advance registration is required.
Located a stone’s throw away from the iconic Zouk Singapore, the pop-up is a short 4-minute walk from Fort Canning MRT, or a 6-minute walk from Clarke Quay MRT. For those travelling by bus, alight at Bef Fort Canning Stn, which is served by buses 32, 54, 195, and 195A.
With striking art installations, insights into Kirin Ichiban’s brewing craft, and a complimentary beer to round things off, the First Press Studio pop-up offers plenty to enjoy without spending a cent. So, if you’re heading to Clarke Quay, make a stop here before this one-of-a-kind pop-up pours its last pint on 6th September.
Admission: Free
Date: Now till 6th September 2026
Time: 12pm-8pm, Daily
Address: Block 3B River Valley Road, Swee Lee Clarke Quay, #01-06, Singapore 179021
For other ongoing events:
Photography by Khoo Yong Hao.
There are over a whopping 14,000 participating merchants all across Singapore.
The pop-up is running from now till 6th September 2026.
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