Item logo image for rikaikun

1.8K ratings

rikaikun shows the reading and English definition of Japanese words when you hover over Japanese text in the browser.

As a Japanese dictionary, rikaikun helps you look up the only the words you don't know without losing your place. It's also useful for Japanese speakers wanting to know how to say Japanese phrases in English. Features: * Using shift or enter, switch between word, names, and Kanji dictionaries. * Enable text to speech in the options to hear Japanese words you look up spoken out load. * Press 'c' to copy the current word and definitions to the clipboard for making flash cards. * Customize how the pop up dictionary looks and what content it shows. Activate the extension by clicking the 理 icon in the top right. When the introductory pop up appears, rikaikun is ready for action. When it's activated, when you hover over Japanese words they'll be translated in a pop up. If you hit shift/enter, you'll see some information about the first Kanji. Press 'd' to hide the English definitions; press it again to bring them back. (Also changeable on the Options page.) Changelog: https://github.com/melink14/rikaikun/blob/main/CHANGELOG.md

4.7 out of 5 1.8K ratings Google doesn't verify reviews. Learn more about results and reviews.

Review's profile picture

Mademade Yo Mar 29, 2024

Thank you very much. Rikaikun is a very useful extension for both Chrome and Edge. However, I found the text-to-voice had changed to female voice from male voice. The male voice was very clear, but the female voice seems to be muffled and not vigorous. Is there any chance to change it back to male voice? Thank you again for this useful extension 'Rikaikun'. Warm regards, Yo

Review's profile picture

Grace F Mar 3, 2024

i have been using this since 2008 back when it was rikaichan. always helpful. thank you so much

Review's profile picture

Talking Stick Feb 13, 2024

Been using this for a while now!! its really useful.

  • Version 2.5.50
  • Updated April 1, 2024
  • Report a concern
  • Offered by Erek Speed
  • Size 27.41MiB
  • Languages English
  • Developer Email [email protected]
  • Non-trader This developer has not identified itself as a trader. For consumers in the European Union, please note that consumer rights do not apply to contracts between you and this developer.

This developer declares that your data is

  • Not being sold to third parties, outside of the approved use cases
  • Not being used or transferred for purposes that are unrelated to the item's core functionality
  • Not being used or transferred to determine creditworthiness or for lending purposes

rikaikun safari

Search Jisho

Adds a context menu to search Jisho for the highlighted word.

rikaikun safari

WaniKani Companion

Your favorite Japanese learning app at a click away.

rikaikun safari

Convert japanese text (kanji, kana) to latin (roumaji)

rikaikun safari

jisho-pitcher

Adds pitch accent information to entries in the online Japanese-English Dictionary at jisho.org

rikaikun safari

Jisho Extension

Quickly search on Jisho.org

rikaikun safari

Japanese Translate & Dictionary Mazii じしょ日本語

For learn japanese, work in all website. Select text and double click to translate.

rikaikun safari

Furiganator

Inserts Furigana in Hiragana, Katakana or Romaji.

rikaikun safari

Japanese IO

Helps you read Japanese text

rikaikun safari

Zhongwen: Chinese-English Dictionary

Great tool for learning Chinese. Includes links to Chinese Grammar Wiki. Supports adding words to Skritter.

rikaikun safari

Furigana Toggle

Toggle furigana on and off.

rikaikun safari

10ten Japanese Reader (Rikaichamp)

Translate Japanese by hovering over words.

rikaikun safari

Learn kanji everyday: get a random kanji when you open a new tab.

Safari extension for translating Japanese words

Translate Japanese words on web pages. Inspired by rikaichan and rikaikun, with love for Safari.

rikaikun safari

  • Download Safarikai.app from App Store , run it once to install the extension.
  • Hover over Japanese word; if Safarikai finds translation(s) for that word a popup will show.

Special Thanks

  • Aaron Lee : An iOS developer who helped migrate to V2.0 (App Store).
  • Rachel Young: An Interface Designer. Made beautiful icons for Safarikai.
  • yaku : A project from Bryan McKelvey which has dict data as JavaScript files. I took them with some modifications.
  • Rikaichan : A popup Japanese-English/German/French/Russian dictionary tool for Firefox, Thunderbird and Seamonkey.
  • rikaikun : A port of rikaichan for chrome. Translate Japanese by hovering over words.
  • Electronic Dictionary Research and Development Group : The home of the "EDICT Project" which has led to the compilation of a number of major Japanese-English dictionary files. Dictionary files used in Safarikai were converted from EDICT , ENAMDICT and others.

Safarikai is released under the MIT License .

Copyright (c) James Chen ( @ashchan )

A comprehensive list of Rikai extensions

List of rikai extensions – japanese pop-up dictionary for your web browser.

There are so many rikai extensions that I got lost when I was trying to find my choice. I want this to be the go-to article for people who seek not only the full list of rikai extensions, but also the truth behind their origin.

We’ll begin with what you’re all here for:

Now some information about some of them:

nazeka is a rikai replacement with many interesting features and options, which are listed in the readme of the repository. It also works in Firefox on Android.

10ten Japanese Reader is a port of rikaikun, which is a port of rikaichan, which is a port of rikaiXUL. It’s very fast.

rikaichan is a fork of rikaiXUL, which took over the development. Originally only for Firefox, it was eventually published for Chrome too.

rikaikun (Chrome) started as a port of rikaichan to Chrome, when rikaichan wasn’t available for Chrome yet.

RikaiRebuilt is a rewrite of Rikaisama for WebExtension API, which aims to keep the structure of the original extension.

Rikaisama is a fork of rikachan with many new features and cutomization options, but it is no longer developed and not supported by Firefox anymore.

rikaiXUL is an old Firefox add-on on which most of the rikai family members were based.

Yomichan is not a fork, but rather a whole different extension which focuses not only on dictionaries, but also the learning side of things. It has a built in integration for Anki, which makes the experience for Anki users a breeze.

How can I decide on my rikai extension?

10ten Japanese Reader is the latest fork (deepest in the fork tree) with many performance improvements and an active development community. But you should definitely check out all the other choices, explore their features and decide which one has the best feel to it for you.

Do you know something I don’t? Do you want to make this more comprehensive? Edit this page!

Dreamsavior

  • Chat vs Text completion
  • Frequency penalties
  • Nucleus Sampling (top_p)
  • Presence Penalty
  • Temperature
  • Building and fine-tuning custom ChatGPT models
  • Known issues in ChatGPT
  • Translate Safely and Quickly
  • Tag reference
  • Patching KAG Games
  • How to handle scrambled/packed ks & tjs files
  • Installation
  • What can Translator++ do?
  • Starting a Translation Project
  • Working with Translator++ in a nutshell
  • How to translate using Translator++
  • Patching with Translator++ exported patch
  • Word Wrapping by Tags
  • How to connect Translator++ with Patreon account
  • Refreshing Project
  • Translation by context
  • Updating a project
  • Row and Line
  • Text to speech
  • Showing marker lines
  • I changed my pledge but my points/level is not increasing
  • What should I do if the source material has been updated or upgraded?
  • How to backup a project?
  • Can not export / inject translation from Wolf RPG Editor games
  • Have installed all required VC Redist, but still got an error?
  • How to fix: Error! File list not found in init file
  • RPGMT progress is stuck at 99% and won’t continue
  • What is points and level?
  • How to reduce in-game font?
  • Unable to install pylivemaker
  • Keyboard Shortcuts
  • Save console log into a file
  • Target Find
  • Using regex in search window
  • Staging Files
  • Trigger auto-update manually
  • Common Update Problems and How to Fix Them
  • Importing translation from spreadsheet files
  • Google Cloud
  • Manually Patch the server to allow GPU processing
  • Hard reset Translator++
  • Removing the MAX_PATH limitation on Windows
  • By Exe Description
  • By File Structures
  • Identify a Game Engine: by Extension
  • Identify a Game Engine: by icons
  • Automation (custom script)
  • Can not use beta release version of Translator++
  • Custom Pattern
  • MySQL/MariaDB database
  • Build Tyrano game into windows executable file
  • How to install addons?
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  • Special characters
  • Know Your Unity Engine
  • XUnity Auto Translator
  • ReiPatcher and Common Issue
  • Uninstall XUnity.AutoTranslator ReiPatcher
  • Translating IL2CPP Unity
  • Change the Unity Game Font Size
  • Make use of RegEx in Translating
  • When and How to use Substitutions
  • Translating Texture on Unity game
  • Download, Setup, and Run the Server via Translator++
  • Use YOJET as a Server for Sugoi Offline Translator Endpoint
  • Framework Not Working
  • Live Maker Engine
  • YU-RIS Engine
  • Translating dll & exe
  • Only half of the character displays
  • I set “Starting Hero Graphic” in Basic Game Settings, but it is not updating [*Base System (Sample Game)]
  • There is an event I cannot talk to in the Sample Game
  • How do I display face graphics?
  • I set up multiple pages in an event, but only the last page runs
  • (Just after starting the game) The position of displayed text is off
  • It is tedious not being able to copy Common Events
  • I want to erase an event after it activates once
  • When editing maps, transparent parts turn a strange color
  • The Variable DB looks fine, but I get “reading a non-existent entry” or “attempted to store a number in aplace for a string” errors, and the data I changed is not showing up
  • My event will not start
  • When using “linked to scroll” background, the background shifts when you loop
  • When using an encrypted folder with Set String “Get File List of Folder…”, I get >
  • When using Move Route, the first action keeps repeating / the first action executes 2 or more times.
  • I want to display 2x-size pixels like with 320×240, but at higher resolutions.
  • When using “linked to scroll” background, the background shifts when you loop.
  • Wolf rpg games won’t launch after translating
  • Special Characters Reference
  • Setting the font, language and character encoding
  • YOJET Server Manager UI Explained
  • How To Instal YOJET
  • API Reference
  • Introduction
  • Format reference
  • Remote debugging
  • Write console logs into a file
  • Creating Localization for Translator++
  • API reference

Sometimes, when you play a JRPG, you encounter new terminology or a unique world for their world-building. It can be a challenge for translators to localize it. Simply using a machine translator may not provide a good answer because the author purposely uses their own terminology.

You need a dictionary of kanji to achieve a better understanding and a good translation. Translator++ supports Rikaikun, which shows the reading and English definitions of Japanese words when you hover over Japanese text in the browser. As a Japanese dictionary, Rikaikun helps you look up only the words you don’t know without losing your place.

  • Switch between words, names, and kanji dictionaries using shift or enter.
  • Enable text-to-speech in the options to hear Japanese words you look up spoken out loud.
  • Press ‘c’ to copy the current word and definitions to the clipboard for making flashcards.
  • Customize how the pop-up dictionary looks and what content it shows.

Rikaikun add-on is available on Translator++ version 5.2.18 onwards, and there is no requirement point; it is free to use. Once installed, the Rikaikun icon will show up on the main toolbar.

rikaikun safari

Activate the extension by clicking the 理 icon in the top right or use the hotkey (Alt + R). When the icon 理 is toggled, Rikaikun is ready for action.

Hotkeys for Rikaikun (only active when Rikaikun’s window pops up):

  • A: Alternate pop-up location
  • Y: Move pop-up location down
  • C: Copy to clipboard
  • D: Hide/show definitions
  • Shift/Enter: Switch dictionaries
  • B: Previous character
  • M: Next character
  • N: Next word
  • J: Scroll back definitions
  • K: Scroll forward definitions

How can we help?

Rikaikun is a browser extension for Google Chrome that shows you all the possible meanings and readings of a word or kanji when you hover over it with your mouse. You can press shift or enter to switch between word, kanji, and name dictionaries while hovering. Rikaikun and Rikaichan (for Firefox) have long been must-haves for everyone from beginners to experienced learners of Japanese.

There are customizable options within Rikaikun as well, such as changing the color and position of the pop-ups, showing only readings without meanings, and choosing which of the thirteen available kanji dictionaries you'd like to see definitions from. The plentiful hotkeys, copy to clipboard (for flashcard use), and text-to-speech functionalities make Rikaikun an even more powerful tool for browsing the web in Japanese.

Search code, repositories, users, issues, pull requests...

Provide feedback.

We read every piece of feedback, and take your input very seriously.

Saved searches

Use saved searches to filter your results more quickly.

To see all available qualifiers, see our documentation .

  • Notifications

rikaikun is a Chrome extension that helps you to read Japanese web pages by showing the reading and English definition of Japanese words when you hover over them.

melink14/rikaikun

Folders and files, repository files navigation.

Chrome Web Store

Table of Contents

Current goals, via the chrome web store, via microsoft edge add-ons, as an unpacked extension, keyboard shortcuts, maintainers, contributors ✨.

rikaikun is a port of Rikaichan I started in 2010 when Chrome released its extension API. It was originally hosted on Google Code until Google Code was canceled and everything was migrated to GitHub.

Rikaichan was a Firefox extension that emulated the popup translations of RikaiXUL. It was the best Japanese-to-English inline translation tool in the browser.

I started with the idea that I would create the Chrome equivalent of Rikaichan from scratch using my own ideas. However, after I tried Rikaichan, I realized that it was already quite good, and starting from scratch would be wasting the excellent work of its developers. Instead, I forked Rikaichan and updated the APIs to work with the Chrome extension model.

In 2018, Firefox killed the extension model that Rikaichan was based on, but other similar extensions have since been created and ported to various browsers. Not much was happening with rikaikun during that time but we've started to work on it again!

  • Refactor code base such that it becomes very easy to maintain and contribute to.
  • Fix bugs in dictionary output.
  • Work on new features like other dictionaries, OCR, and static popup/lookup bar. Feel free to suggest/:thumbsup: more.

Visit rikaikun on the Chrome Web Store and click 'Add to Chrome'.

Visit rikaikun on Microsoft Edge Add-ons and click 'Get'.

You can also install rikaikun from the source as an unpacked extension:

  • Get the latest release from Github:
  • Follow these instructions from the web-scrobbler Chrome extension. (substituting rikaikun where appropriate)

Activate the extension by clicking on the 理 in the top right. When the introductory pop up appears, rikaikun is ready for action.

When rikaikun is active, hovering over Japanese words will trigger a translation pop-up.

See it in action in this Youtube demo by Tariq Sheikh .

  • Read out the Japanese words using Chrome Text To Speech capabilities. (Off by default)
  • Change where the popup appears on your screen. (Where your mouse cursor is by default)
  • Copy current definitions to they keyboard.
  • Add a delay before popup is shown to avoid constant distractions.
  • Require a modifier key to be held down in order to see popups.
  • Hide definitions to see only the readings of words.

You can access the options from the extension page if you have it installed or by right clicking on the rikaikun icon.

  • Jon Zarate for their work on Rikaichan
  • Todd Rudick for their work on the original RikaiXUL
  • This extension uses JMdict/EDICT and KANJIDIC dictionary files. These files are the property of the Electronic Dictionary Research and Development Group , and are used in conformance with the Group's licence .

Contributing

Contribute by submitting pull requests, filing bug reports, requesting features and more!

See the contributing file for the full details!

Small note: If editing the README, please conform to the standard-readme specification.

Thanks goes to these wonderful people ( emoji key ):

This project follows the all-contributors specification. Contributions of any kind welcome!

GPL-3.0 © 2020 Erek Speed

Code of conduct

Releases 155, contributors 28.

@dependabot[bot]

  • TypeScript 81.3%
  • Shell 11.1%
  • JavaScript 4.1%
  • Dockerfile 1.4%

Coto Academy

  • Intensive Japanese Courses
  • Lite Intensive Japanese Courses
  • Part-time Japanese Classes
  • Private Lessons
  • JLPT Prep Courses
  • Online Japanese Lessons
  • JLPT Online Instruction & Exercise – 6 Month Course
  • Self-Study Courses
  • About Coto Japanese Academy
  • Iidabashi Japanese Language School
  • Shibuya Japanese Language School
  • Yokohama Japanese Language School
  • Minato Japanese Language School
  • Our Teaching Philosophy
  • Student Visa Support
  • Corporate Solutions
  • Japanese Blog
  • All articles

How to improve in Japanese reading with Browser Extensions

rikaikun safari

It is said that there over 50,000 kanji and out of which around -2000 kanjis are commonly used for daily life. For a Japanese learner like you, this may seem like a terrifying thought to remember all the kanjis to survive learning Japanese.

Do not worry, in this article, we introduce a 5 reading websites that can help you to read Japanese websites, news articles smoothly online.

1. Japanese IO

Japanese IO features are fairly easy to use. Download the chrome extension and click on the extension to activate its features. Simply hover over an unknown kanji, and the a blue highlighter will pop up, helping you to read the kanji. The reading and English translation will appear when you click on the kanji.

When you hover over the word (left) and when you click on the kanji (right)

rikaikun safari

It also provides other kanji examples, the associated JLPT level and more information of “kun” and “on” reading of kanji. There is a tab called “examples” next to “kanji” that provides more example sentences of the highlighted kanji. This feature is very beneficial in allowing Japanese learners to gain the skill to use the vocabulary naturally .

rikaikun safari

Another highlight of this extention is that you are able to make a star on the top right corner. Doing this adds the kanji to your list of vocabularies you have interacted with. You can access this list when you sign into Japanese IO website, in the vocabulary section.

Chrome extention download

2. GakuMei Dictionary

In order to activate GakuMei Dictionary, you will have to click on the extension and switch to “on”. This extension sets a difference compared to others in multiple ways, starting with the function to add 3 dictionaries that provides definitions when you hover your cursor over an unknown kanji.

The 3 dictionaries are:

  • Edict2 – vocabulary dictionary
  • Kanjidic – Kanji dictionary
  • Enamdict – name dictionary

rikaikun safari

Another superb feature is the ability to add kanjis you have encountered into flashcard. The flashcard tests you on the kanji reading, and when you have answered the quiz, the extension gives you a survey to answer how well you have remembered the answer, for future reference of how often the vocabulary should be seen.

rikaikun safari

Chrome extension download

3. rikaikun

Simply click on the extention to activate this feature. When you hover over the kanji, rikaikun translates the kanji and spells it out for you.

rikaikun safari

When you type “d” whilst hovering over the word, it removes the English translation.

rikaikun safari

Whilst hovering, click “shift” or “enter” to switch the dictionary to a kanji dictionary where it provides information on the individual kanji.

rikaikun safari

4. IPA Furigana

Do you wish to be able to read Japanese articles and news online? IPA Furigana is the perfect extension for you. Targeted to intermediate to advanced Japanese learners with the skills of JLPT N2~N1, the simple activation of this extension turns on the furigana for all the kanjis. This allows anyone to read Japanese texts without any obstacles. The great thing about this extension is that when you want to print out the article, the furigana is printed out together with the article for those that prefer physical copies.

Without IPA Furigana

rikaikun safari

With IPA Furigana

rikaikun safari

The Subadub extension is a great tool for Netflix addicted Japanese learners. If you like watching Japanese shows and want to learn Japanese more effectively at the same time, why not kill two birds with one stone? The addition of this extension allows you to select any word or kanji you come across while watching your favorite show. Simple pause the video, select the unfamiliar word and the definition of the word will be displayed.

Another advantage of this extension is that the subtitles are displayed as a selectable text, meaning that you can copy and paste the words and use hand in hand with the Rikaikun extension for more definitions.

rikaikun safari

Picture taken from Subadub chrome web store

All of the extensions were tested on our JLPT N4 Grammar: 〜しよう blog article

Test your Japanese level!

rikaikun safari

Recent Articles

rikaikun safari

A Guide to Gyms in Japan in 2024

rikaikun safari

Japanese Language for Emergency Situations

rikaikun safari

2024 Coto Travel Guide: What To Do In Japan In April

Safarikai 4+

Jianming chen.

  • 5.0 • 1 Rating

Screenshots

Description.

Translate Japanese words on web pages. Inspired by rikaichan and rikaikun, with love for Safari. # How to install and use * Run Safarikai.app once to install the extension. * Open Safari - Preferences - Extension, make sure Safarikai is checked on the left panel. * Hover over Japanese word; if Safarikai finds translation(s) for that word a popup will show.

Version 2.9

- Fix icon issue (thanks to Drew Fitzpatrick)

Ratings and Reviews

App privacy.

The developer, Jianming Chen , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer's privacy policy .

Data Not Collected

The developer does not collect any data from this app.

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

  • App Support
  • Privacy Policy

rikaikun safari

Description

Imagen del logotipo del elemento para rikaikun

1,8 mil valoraciones

Descripción general

rikaikun shows the reading and English definition of Japanese words when you hover over Japanese text in the browser.

As a Japanese dictionary, rikaikun helps you look up the only the words you don't know without losing your place. It's also useful for Japanese speakers wanting to know how to say Japanese phrases in English. Features: * Using shift or enter, switch between word, names, and Kanji dictionaries. * Enable text to speech in the options to hear Japanese words you look up spoken out load. * Press 'c' to copy the current word and definitions to the clipboard for making flash cards. * Customize how the pop up dictionary looks and what content it shows. Activate the extension by clicking the 理 icon in the top right. When the introductory pop up appears, rikaikun is ready for action. When it's activated, when you hover over Japanese words they'll be translated in a pop up. If you hit shift/enter, you'll see some information about the first Kanji. Press 'd' to hide the English definitions; press it again to bring them back. (Also changeable on the Options page.) Changelog: https://github.com/melink14/rikaikun/blob/main/CHANGELOG.md

4,7 de 5 1,8 mil valoraciones Google no verifica las reseñas. Obtén más información sobre los resultados y las reseñas.

Imagen de perfil de la reseña

AR 3 27 nov 2016

He estado buscando esta aplicación por mucho tiempo; es exactamente como la imaginaba: muy útil y necesaria; se ganó esas 5 estrellas.

Imagen de perfil de la reseña

Mauro Aguilar Bustamante 1 nov 2016

For those ones who can not see the words meaning: When you hover over the words and accidentally press the 'D' key it hides/shows the definition of the words. Para aquellos que tienen el problema de que no pueden ver el significado de las palabras: Cuando pasas el mouse sobre las palabras y presionas accidentalmente la tecla 'D', el significado de las palabras se muestra/oculta.

Imagen de perfil de la reseña

Leonardo Binbin 24 feb 2016

a veces falla un poco pero es un muy necesario

  • Versión 2.5.50
  • Actualizado 1 de abril de 2024
  • Informar de un problema
  • Ofrecido por Erek Speed
  • Tamaño 27.41MiB
  • Idiomas English
  • Desarrollador Correo electrónico [email protected]
  • No operador Este desarrollador no se ha identificado como operador. Los consumidores residentes en la Unión Europea deben tener en cuenta que los derechos de los consumidores no son aplicables a los contratos que suscriban con este desarrollador.

Este desarrollador declara que tus datos:

  • No se venden a terceros, excepto en los casos de uso aprobados
  • No se usan ni se transfieren para fines no relacionados con la función principal del elemento.
  • No se usan ni se transfieren para determinar la situación crediticia ni para ofrecer préstamos.

Relacionados

rikaikun safari

Search Jisho

Adds a context menu to search Jisho for the highlighted word.

rikaikun safari

WaniKani Companion

Your favorite Japanese learning app at a click away.

rikaikun safari

Convert japanese text (kanji, kana) to latin (roumaji)

rikaikun safari

jisho-pitcher

Adds pitch accent information to entries in the online Japanese-English Dictionary at jisho.org

rikaikun safari

Jisho Extension

Quickly search on Jisho.org

rikaikun safari

Japanese Translate & Dictionary Mazii じしょ日本語

For learn japanese, work in all website. Select text and double click to translate.

rikaikun safari

Furiganator

Inserts Furigana in Hiragana, Katakana or Romaji.

rikaikun safari

Japanese IO

Helps you read Japanese text

rikaikun safari

Zhongwen: Chinese-English Dictionary

Great tool for learning Chinese. Includes links to Chinese Grammar Wiki. Supports adding words to Skritter.

rikaikun safari

Furigana Toggle

Toggle furigana on and off.

rikaikun safari

10ten Japanese Reader (Rikaichamp)

Translate Japanese by hovering over words.

rikaikun safari

Learn kanji everyday: get a random kanji when you open a new tab.

Moscow Muled

Moscow Muled

Why do moscow mules come in copper mugs.

Why Do Moscow Mules Come in Copper Mugs?

Oct 18, 2019

Have you ever wondered why the Moscow Mule cocktail is served in a copper mug? In this post, we answer that question in detail. As it turns out, the answer is partly based on historical events and partly based on the extra "kick" that copper brings to this classic cocktail. Let's dive in!

Introduction

Moscow Muled copper mug filled with liquid ice and sliced lime on its rim

A remarkable cocktail is something you notice from across the room, easily identified by the signature drinking vessel it's served in. Few are more distinct than the burnished copper mug of a Moscow Mule. 

Great cocktails aren't just alcohol and mixers––they should be something more, a full sensory experience from beginning to end. It starts as you observe the precise convergence of ingredients in a golden ratio that blossoms into flavors and aromas of citrus and spicy ginger. It is then delivered into an ice-filled copper mug and garnished with fresh mint and a slice of lime.  Finally, it is presented before you, shiny and cold, compelling you to taste.

The copper mule mug not only tells the story of the drink it contains, but also is essentially functional to the full experience. You might already know that the cone-shaped bowl of a long-stemmed Martini glass was designed so that olives would stand perfectly upright, and the elegantly curvaceous welled Margarita glass was designed to add ample salt, sugar and garnishes.

But why are Moscow Mules served in copper mugs?

Inquiring minds want to know, so this article will sum up the science and history of why traditional Moscow Mules come in copper mugs, and other legit benefits of serving cocktails in pure copper mugs. This includes:

A Brief History of the Moscow Mule

The science of using copper mugs.

  • How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste & Aroma of your Moscow Mule
  • The Enhanced Experience of Drinking from a Pure Copper Mug

The origin of this timeless cocktail is the tale of the American Dream. One fateful day in 1941 , three struggling entrepreneurs had a serendipitous meeting at the Cock 'N Bull bar on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood: A bar owner passionate about his unpopular home-brewed ginger beer, a businessman who took a big chance and purchased Smirnoff vodka, and a Russian immigrant with a cache of copper mugs she couldn't seem to sell. That day, the unlikely trio wisely decided to join forces in a bold venture that would not only save their individual businesses, but also create an iconic American cocktail.

Essentially, the Moscow Mule is the most successful marketing campaign in cocktail history. At a time when most Americans had never even heard of vodka, this cocktail introduced them to the traditional Russian alcohol, and established Smirnoff as a necessity in both bars and homes alike.

Thanks to celebrity endorsement, the Moscow Mule soon took the Hollywood cocktail scene by storm, and quickly became the most beloved mixed drink of the 1950's.

It's popularity understandably waned during the Cold War, and it was briefly re-branded as the Smirnoff Mule to distance itself from communism. However, the recent cocktail renaissance of the 21st century has seen the Moscow Mule come kicking back, as evidenced by lists like Esquire's Top 10 Cocktails of 2019 , and Business Insider's 8th Best-selling Cocktail in the World, 2018 .

But the answer to why Moscow Mules are served in copper mugs goes much further than a conveniently clever alliance between co-founders desperate for a big break. The story of the Moscow Mule is both the struggle of the immigrant searching for success, and the flashy lifestyle of the rich and famous.

It boasts a simple recipe , yet a complex flavor profile, encapsulated in a shiny copper mug. And as delicious and refreshing as the Moscow Mule may be, it's the copper mug that makes the cocktail so extraordinary.  Like the drink itself, the pure copper mule mug is a balance of form and functionality.

copper mug filled with ice cubed placed on black table

The most scientific benefit of the copper mug is its ability to regulate temperature. When a drink is served in a copper mug, it gets cold fast––and stays that way.

Copper is a renowned thermal conductor that will keep your beverage frosty in any weather, and is one of the reasons the traditional Moscow Mule has become synonymous with summer. Add a little ice, and the copper chills drinks instantly, and sustains a refreshingly icy rim with every sip.

Because copper is such an excellent conductor, it can keep your cold beverages colder for longer. The downfall of many ill-fated cocktails on a hot summer day is melting ice. Copper mugs stay brisk, and don't disrupt the recipe's ratio, so the simple yet distinct flavors of the Moscow Mule remain strong till the last drop.

Another important feature of the solid copper Moscow Mule mug is the handle. Much like the stem of a wine glass, the copper mug handle keeps the nearly 100 degree body temperature of your hand from impacting the status of your deliciously frosty cocktail.

How Copper Mugs Amplify the Taste and Aroma of Your Moscow Mule

If you want to know what a Moscow Mule tastes like, purists would insist the only way to experience it is in a 100% copper mug. Aside from being a great American tradition, copper mugs offer some unique enhancements to both the flavor and aroma of the Moscow Mule (or almost any finely-crafted cocktail).

Although subjective, most discerning drinkers would agree that copper mugs imbue cocktails with a superior taste. Experts explain that the copper oxidizes the vodka upon contact, thus enhancing the flavor profile and potency of the aromatics.

The intense cold of the copper also creates more stability in the bubbles of the ginger beer carbonation, and balances the tangy citrus of the lime with the earthy spice of the ginger.

For the skeptics out there, the theory of superior taste is easily verifiable. Simply make or order two Moscow Mules––one served in a plastic cup, and one served in a copper mug. Take a moment to inhale deeply, enjoy a big sip, and let your senses be the judge.

The epiphany should take a matter of moments, and you soon realize why a Moscow Mule is best served in a copper mug, and why any other cup or glass is vastly inferior. The difference can be so vivid, you might even consider drinking all your favorite beverages from copper mugs, even hot tea and coffee!

The Enhanced Experience of Drinking From a Pure Copper Mug

Throwing back shots with reckless disregard is a great way to get hammered, but a terrible way to enjoy something delicious. People order cocktails for the full package––observing its creation, revelling in its presentation, and slowly savoring its captivating story and unique taste.

Not only is a cocktail a well-balanced combination of spirits and mixers, it's also about the aesthetic and function of the vessel it's served in. A cocktail should be an object of inspired beauty, presented thoughtfully in a suitable glass or mug and garnished appropriately. It should take time, because it's made by hand.

Although the copper mug has become the symbol of Moscow Mules, it can also pair exquisitely with many other cocktails. Many people seem drawn to the shine and nostalgia of the metal, and Mixologists seem impressed by the scientific properties of the copper mug. Other drinks prominently featured in copper mugs include Dark 'n Stormy, Mescal, Gin & Tonic, and Cuba Libre.

No matter how frosted a beer glass gets, nothing can keep a mixed drink colder than a copper mug. The sensation when one's lips touch the ice-cold rim with every sip is part of the unique experience.

The flavors are heightened, the aromas amplified, and the balance of vodka, lime juice and ginger beer is never watered-down by melting ice. Provided your Moscow Mule is served in a pure copper mug, the last sip should be just as robust and enjoyable as the first.

The benefits of drinking from copper mugs aren't a newfound discovery. In fact, copper has been the preferred metal for drinking vessels for thousands of years.

Gurus in India have been using copper mugs for hundreds of years, and copper goblets called Escra have been found in ancient Irish ruins. Even American settles in 1645 drank exclusively from a massive tankard made of pure copper, known today as the Virginia Tankard .

The Moscow Mule is a classic drink served in a magnificent copper mug because it tells a compelling story, and enhances your consumption experience. It is an unforgettable drink because it's served in a mug that is both more beautiful than and functionally superior to glass.

Three Reasons Moscow Mules Come in Copper Mugs

The reason your Moscow Mule is served in a copper mug is not a fluke. It is not because it's the latest trendy hipster craze. It's not just a marketing ploy (although it definitely started out as one), nor is it a conspiracy by the lobbyists for Big Copper.

Moscow Mules come in copper mugs for three reasons: taste, temperature, and presentation.

The unique experience of drinking a Moscow Mule is a balanced combination of these three elements. It's also the reason this drink is not only the most recognizable, but also consistently one of the most popular drinks in global cocktail culture history.

Taste: The natural properties of the copper oxidize the alcohol, resulting in powerful aromatics and superior flavors. The bubbles of the ginger beer stay fizzy, and perfectly counter the acidity of the fresh lime juice. It's spicy yet refreshing. Simply put, it's delicious!

Temperature: Copper is an ideal thermal conductor, instantly chilling your beverage upon creation, and maintaining a consistently arctic temperature. This prevents the ice from quickly melting and dulling the cocktail ratio, while keeping the rim refreshingly frosty with every sip. The handle also keeps your hot little fingers from fluctuating the temperature with every touch.

Presentation: A glinting copper mug looks authentic and catches the eye. It is vintage, yet modern, and tells a story of creativity, charm and resilience. It is instantly recognizable, and makes for a fine looking beverage. Yes please!

The Bottom Line

The copper mug is iconic, a great American tradition of nearly 80 years, and is the only proper way to drink a Moscow Mule. Cheers!

Did You Enjoy This Article?

Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this article, you might also like the following articles:  How to Clean and Care for Copper Mugs: The Definitive Guide and  Why You Should Only Use Moscow Mule Copper Mugs With Stainless Steel Lining

Relevant Products

Moscow Mule Copper Mug

Leave a comment

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Receive exclusive deals and our latest blog posts straight to your inbox!

ClickCease

IMAGES

  1. Rikaikun: What Every Japanese Learner Needs

    rikaikun safari

  2. Tips for reading Japanese using rikaichan/rikaikun

    rikaikun safari

  3. Rikaichan ou rikaikun permet de comprendre le japonais

    rikaikun safari

  4. How to use Rikai-Kun/Chan

    rikaikun safari

  5. Сафари в Африке

    rikaikun safari

  6. 【rikaikun】日本語の読み方を教えてくれるChrome拡張機能の使い方

    rikaikun safari

VIDEO

  1. райкано (дикари )💰

  2. #zakatoon #сталотцом #рек #драконынаруку

  3. Safari vehicle helps van to escape from elephant #wildelephants #elephantattack #jungleelephant

  4. wie gehts eigentlich.. influencern in zanzibar?

  5. Jungle Safari With Family Sourav Part 3 || Sourav Joshi Vlogs || Sourav Joshi Short Vlogs

  6. Rikaisan Universal

COMMENTS

  1. ‎Safarikai on the Mac App Store

    Translate Japanese words on web pages. Inspired by rikaichan and rikaikun, with love for Safari. # How to install and use. * Run Safarikai.app once to install the extension. * Open Safari - Preferences - Extension, make sure Safarikai is checked on the left panel. * Hover over Japanese word; if Safarikai finds translation (s) for that word a ...

  2. rikaikun

    Rikaikun is a very useful extension for both Chrome and Edge. However, I found the text-to-voice had changed to female voice from male voice. The male voice was very clear, but the female voice seems to be muffled and not vigorous. Is there any chance to change it back to male voice? Thank you again for this useful extension 'Rikaikun'. Warm ...

  3. SafariKai Review

    Safari was left out in the cold, dark night. SafariKai is a browser extension that, just like other Rikai-tachi, gives pop-up dictionary definitions when you hover over a Japanese word. It runs smoother and looks a bit more elegant than other Rikai apps, but the dictionary definitions tend to be bulkier when compared with Rikaikun and Rikaichan.

  4. GitHub

    This is a version of the rikai (rikaichan, rikaisama, rikaikun) Japanese translation extension, which has been created for the Safari browser. When activated, simply place your cursor over Japanese words to display their dictionary definitions in a popup. Download and Installation

  5. Safarikai by ashchan

    Translate Japanese words on web pages. Inspired by rikaichan and rikaikun, with love for Safari. How to Use. Download Safarikai.app from App Store, run it once to install the extension. Hover over Japanese word; if Safarikai finds translation(s) for that word a popup will show. Special Thanks

  6. A comprehensive list of Rikai extensions

    Now some information about some of them: nazeka is a rikai replacement with many interesting features and options, which are listed in the readme of the repository. It also works in Firefox on Android. 10ten Japanese Reader is a port of rikaikun, which is a port of rikaichan, which is a port of rikaiXUL. It's very fast. rikaichan is a fork of rikaiXUL, which took over the development.

  7. Rikaikun

    Once installed, the Rikaikun icon will show up on the main toolbar. Rikaikun Add-on was installed and ready to use. Activate the extension by clicking the 理 icon in the top right or use the hotkey (Alt + R). When the icon 理 is toggled, Rikaikun is ready for action. Hotkeys for Rikaikun (only active when Rikaikun's window pops up):

  8. rikaikun Review

    rikaikun. Rikaikun is a browser extension for Google Chrome that shows you all the possible meanings and readings of a word or kanji when you hover over it with your mouse. You can press shift or enter to switch between word, kanji, and name dictionaries while hovering. Rikaikun and Rikaichan (for Firefox) have long been must-haves for everyone ...

  9. GitHub

    rikaikun is a port of Rikaichan I started in 2010 when Chrome released its extension API. It was originally hosted on Google Code until Google Code was canceled and everything was migrated to GitHub. Rikaichan was a Firefox extension that emulated the popup translations of RikaiXUL.

  10. Rikai-chan / Rikai-kun extension for Safari : r/LearnJapanese

    Rikai-chan / Rikai-kun extension for Safari. I just updated to Safari 12 and the Rikai-chan/kun extension is no longer supported. I was wondering if anyone here knows who the developers of these extensions are and if there's any timeline for getting an update that will work with the new browser. Archived post.

  11. How to improve in Japanese reading with Browser Extensions

    1. Japanese IO. Japanese IO features are fairly easy to use. Download the chrome extension and click on the extension to activate its features. Simply hover over an unknown kanji, and the a blue highlighter will pop up, helping you to read the kanji. The reading and English translation will appear when you click on the kanji.

  12. rikaigu

    It's well established and heavily improves upon Rikaikun, making the latter obsolete. Has Anki integration, EPWING support, etc. For Firefox, Rikaisama is the leader.) 5. sollniss • 7 yr. ago. Yomichan's huge as fuck popup is a big turnoff though. So much wasted space compared to Rikaikun.

  13. Resource: Rikai-Kun, Extension for Chrome. : r/LearnJapanese

    For Safari, there is: Rikaitan - Just like rikaikun, works fast and good (highlighting text feels 60Hz smooth), but it doesn't capture text in input boxes, like Google, ... Rikaikun is abandon-ware, and was vastly inferior (functionality-wise) to the Firefox versions. A lot of those stopped working with recent updates to Firefox though, but ...

  14. ‎Safarikai on the Mac App Store

    ‎Translate Japanese words on web pages. Inspired by rikaichan and rikaikun, with love for Safari. # How to install and use * Run Safarikai.app once to install the extension. * Open Safari - Preferences - Extension, make sure Safarikai is checked on the left panel. * Hover over Japanese word; if Saf…

  15. rikaikun

    As a Japanese dictionary, rikaikun helps you look up the only the words you don't know without losing your place. It's also useful for Japanese speakers wanting to know how to say Japanese phrases in English. Features: * Using shift or enter, switch between word, names, and Kanji dictionaries.

  16. Making life easier with Japanese browser extensions

    Once you've done this and cleared any warning prompts, you'll see the icon in Safari's main toolbar. Rikaikun. I have a feeling that there are many users familiar with this Japanese browser extension due to it being available for the very popular Google Chrome. Rikaikun's icon will appear in Chrome and look like the kanji for "理"

  17. rikaikun

    rikaikun shows the reading and English definition of Japanese words when you hover over Japanese text in the browser. This version of the Chrome Web Store will be discontinued in January. Visit the new store now. . Extensions Themes Apps Games.

  18. rikaikun

    rikaikun shows the reading and English definition of Japanese words when you hover over Japanese text in the browser. As a Japanese dictionary, rikaikun helps you look up the only the words you don't know without losing your place.

  19. Why Do Moscow Mules Come in Copper Mugs?

    The reason your Moscow Mule is served in a copper mug is not a fluke. It is not because it's the latest trendy hipster craze. It's not just a marketing ploy (although it definitely started out as one), nor is it a conspiracy by the lobbyists for Big Copper. Moscow Mules come in copper mugs for three reasons: taste, temperature, and presentation.

  20. Georgii Daneliia. I Walk Around Moscow (1964)

    Daneliia's delightful film about young people in early 1960s Moscow is distilled into this final scene, in which the young Nikita Mikhalkov sings the lighthe...

  21. Men's 100m Final

    Usain Bolt leaves it late but defends his 100m title at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow!#WorldChampionships #UsainBolt #Jamaica #IAAF #Athletics #Spri...

  22. Amazing Journey around Moscow, Kremlin Wall; Russia

    #Sancharam #Siberia #SafariTV #Santhosh_George_Kulangara #Lal_JoseStay Tuned : https://www.safaritvchannel.com Enjoy & Stay Connected With Us !!---...