Just in time for Golden Week, Japanese shoppers are seeing a welcome drop in rice prices. Premium Koshihikari rice is now selling for under 2,000 yen per 5kg bag in some stores, marking the lowest price in three years.
Supermarkets across the country are running promotions to attract customers during the holiday period. One major chain has slashed the price of its house-brand Koshihikari to 1,980 yen, down from over 3,000 yen earlier this year.
"I was surprised to see it so cheap," said a 60-year-old shopper in Tokyo. "During the rice shortage last year, I paid almost double. This is a big help for my household budget."
The price drop follows a bumper harvest in 2025 and government measures to stabilize supply. Japan's rice production rebounded after a poor crop in 2023 led to shortages and soaring prices.
In addition to supermarket discounts, some restaurants are joining the trend. A popular Iekei ramen chain is offering all-you-can-eat rice with its ramen bowls for a limited time.
"Rich broth and medium-thick noodles with a fragrant wheat aroma. The perfect companion to Iekei ramen is now unlimited rice," the chain announced.
The promotion has drawn long lines at branches in Tokyo and Yokohama.
Rice analysts warn that prices could rise again later this year if weather conditions affect the next harvest. But for now, consumers are enjoying the Golden Week bargain.