Hana-Musubi, Hong Kong’s leading Japanese rice ball specialist, has announced a high-profile collaboration with Ocean Park’s “Panda Friends” to launch a new “Hong Kong-Sichuan Style” series. Starting March 5, the limited-time campaign introduces three localized omusubi flavors, panda-themed monochromatic desserts, and exclusive collectible merchandise at all Hana-Musubi outlets across the city. This partnership merges the traditional Japanese grab-and-go concept with quintessential local Cantonese and spicy Sichuan culinary profiles.
Local Flavors Meet Japanese Craftsmanship
The centerpiece of the collaboration is a trio of rice balls inspired by regional “claypot” and stir-fry dishes, with prices starting as low as $18. The lineup is designed to appeal to local palates while celebrating the playful spirit of Ocean Park’s iconic residents.
- Sichuan Malah Chicken Pot ($20): Drawing inspiration from dry-pot cooking, this rice ball features a custom sauce that emphasizes the “numbing, spicy, and fresh” pillars of Sichuan cuisine.
- Chu Hou Beef Brisket ($22): Utilizing the soulful Chu Hou paste found in traditional Hong Kong stews, this option offers tender brisket and rich gravy that seeps into the premium Japanese rice.
- Stir-fried Minced Pork ($18): A savory blend of teriyaki and black pepper sauces with a hint of sesame oil, making it a flavorful choice for both children and adults.
Adorable Panda Desserts and Collectibles
Complementing the savory offerings are two “Black and White” desserts priced at $18 each. The Black Sesame Milk Mousse Cup features a 3D chocolate topper of “Jia Jia,” while the Bamboo Charcoal Coconut Panna Cotta is crafted to resemble a rounded panda paw.
For fans of the “Panda Friends” characters, the collaboration includes limited-edition merchandise available for redemption with any purchase. Customers can add a Plush Coin Purse Keychain featuring characters “Jia Jia” or “De De” for $48, or a specialized Insulated Omusubi Bag (designed to hold exactly two rice balls) for $38.
Exclusive Gift Voucher Sets
To celebrate the launch, the brand is offering a Panda Friends Voucher Set for $99. Each set includes:
- An exclusive panda-themed envelope.
- Six omusubi vouchers (redeemable for any standard rice ball).
- One “Buy-1-Get-1-Free” voucher for rice balls.
- One “Buy-1-Get-1-Free” voucher for soups.
The vouchers are available from March 5 while stocks last and must be utilized by April 30, 2026. This strategic partnership not only highlights Hana-Musubi’s commitment to culinary localization but also leverages the cultural significance of Ocean Park’s pandas. Following recent wildlife conservation milestones in the city, this “food-meets-tourism” initiative is expected to drive significant foot traffic to both retail outlets and the theme park itself.