Many Moon-Themed Foods Rolled Out ahead of "Tsukimi" Season

Tokyo, September 24 - In preparation for the autumn mid-autumn moon-viewing season, also known as Tsukimi, numerous restaurant chains, food manufacturers, and convenience store operators across Japan are introducing new seasonal food products. This year's mid-autumn moon, which falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, is set to occur on Friday.

The traditional Japanese custom of expressing gratitude for the autumn harvest while admiring the full moon is inspiring these companies to develop a range of sales promotions and to host themed events. Denny's Japan Co., a prominent family restaurant operator, kicked off its first Tsukimi-themed fair on September 3. The event features eight menu items inspired by the moon, such as black Chinese noodles over garlic rice with an egg yolk, and a rice gratin topped with hamburger steak and curry sauce, all served with a sunny-side-up egg.

Confectionery manufacturer Lotte Co. joined the trend by releasing a limited-time offering of Yukimi Daifuku ice cream wrapped in mochi rice cake. The mochi is dyed yellow to resemble a full moon. To celebrate this product, Lotte will host an event from Friday to Sunday in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward. During the event, visitors will have the opportunity to taste the ice cream and participate in mochi pounding while viewing an indoor moon replica.

According to a public relations official from Lotte Holdings Co., the event is expected to attract around 5,000 people over the three-day period.