Tsukimi Burgers (月見バーガー)

Chigasaki Imajuku Branch of McDonald's and the moon on the top left

One of the culinary delights enjoyed in Japan during this time of year is the Tsukimi burger (月見バーガー).

Tsukimi (月見), which translates to "moon-viewing," is a traditional custom that dates back to at least the Heian period.  During this time of year, people enjoy looking at the moon, especially on the 15th day of the eighth month of the traditional Japanese calendar, which typically falls in mid-September; this year, it is on September 17.  The moon seen on this day is referred to as Chushu no Meigetsu (中秋の名月).  Related foods include Tsukimi soba, which features soba noodles topped with an egg, where the yolk resembles the moon.  In recent years, many Japanese fast-food chains, such as McDonald's Japan, Lotteria, KFC, and Wendy's First Kitchen, have introduced fried egg sandwiches known as Tsukimi burgers.

Ordered McDonald's Fluffy-Melty Tsukimi (芳醇ふわとろ月見):

This year, McDonald's Japan has also added Yuzu-Shichimi Tartar Sauce for Chicken McNuggets, Tsukimi Pie filled with kinako mochi and anko (red bean paste), and Tsukimi McShake Custard Pudding to their Tsukimi series.

McDonald's drive-through menu board showing this year's Tsukimi-series menu items