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Sheep-shearing and puffer fish among items in Japan’s New Year lucky bags

Sheep-shearing and puffer fish among items in Japan’s New Year lucky bags

Stores are also offering sheep-themed items, as 2027 is the Year of the Sheep in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle.

Major Japanese department stores will sell fukubukuro lucky bags in their New Year’s sale next year, with many featuring frozen foods and gourmet ingredients.The focus on food reflects department store operators’ aims to generate interest in their products as a proposed cut in the consumption tax rate on food next April is expected to boost demand for dining at home.Stores are also offering sheep-themed food and experiences because 2027 is the Year of the Sheep in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle.

In brief

Major Japanese department stores will sell fukubukuro lucky bags in their New Year’s sale next year, with many featuring frozen foods and gourmet ingredients.The focus on food reflects department store operators’ aims to generate interest in their products as a proposed cut in the consumption tax rate on food next April is expected to boost demand for dining at home.Stores are also offering sheep-themed food and experiences because 2027 is the Year of the Sheep in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle.

This is the opening of the story, shared with credit to The Japan Times. The rest of the report — with every detail — continues on the publisher’s website.

Continue reading at The Japan Times ↗

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