Hana-Musubi, Hong Kong’s premier Japanese rice ball specialist, has announced a charming new collaboration with Ocean Park’s “Panda Friends” to celebrate the city’s beloved giant pandas. Launching March 5 across all retail outlets, the partnership introduces an exclusive “Hong Kong-Sichuan Style” omusubi series starting at just $18. This seasonal campaign blends local Cantonese comfort food with Sichuan spice, accompanied by panda-themed desserts, limited-edition merchandise, and high-value gift voucher sets.
Local Flavors Meet Sichuan Spice
The highlight of this collaboration is the trio of rice balls inspired by regional culinary staples. By reimagining traditional claypot and stir-fry dishes into a portable format, Hana-Musubi offers a unique fusion experience:
- Mala Chicken Pot Omusubi ($20): Inspired by Sichuan dry-pot chicken, this recipe focuses on the four pillars of Sichuan cuisine: numbing, spicy, fresh, and fragrant. The initial hit of Sichuan peppercorns gives way to a layered chili aroma that enhances the tender chicken.
- Chu Hou Beef Brisket Omusubi ($22): Utilizing the soulful Chu Hou soybean sauce essential to Cantonese cooking, this rice ball captures the essence of slow-braised brisket. The rich fat and savory gravy permeate the Japanese rice for a comforting, robust bite.
- Stir-Fried Minced Pork Omusubi ($18): A family-friendly option featuring smoky stir-fried pork seasoned with a signature blend of teriyaki and black pepper sauces, finished with a touch of sesame oil for depth.
Monochrome Sweets and Collectible Gear
Beyond the savory rice balls, the “Panda Friends” take over the dessert menu with two “Black and White” treats priced at $18 each. The Black Sesame Milk Mousse Cup features a 3D chocolate topper of the panda “Jia Jia,” while the Bamboo Charcoal Coconut Panna Cotta is cleverly shaped like a rounded panda paw, complete with adorable “toe beans.”
Collectors can also find exclusive merchandise available for redemption with any omusubi purchase:
- Plush Coin Purse Keychains ($48): Available in “Jia Jia” and “Didi” designs, these soft-touch accessories add a whimsical touch to bags.
- Insulated Omusubi Bag ($38): A functional, omusubi-shaped thermal bag featuring “Didi,” capable of holding up to two rice balls for commuters and weekend travelers.
Value Voucher Sets
For loyal customers, the Hana-Musubi x Panda Friends Gift Voucher Set ($99) offers significant savings. Each set includes an illustrated envelope, six omusubi vouchers (valid for any standard rice ball), and two “Buy-1-Get-1-Free” coupons for rice balls and soups. These vouchers are available from March 5 while stocks last and can be redeemed through April 30.
This collaboration reflects a growing trend in Hong Kong’s food and beverage sector: blending Japanese convenience with nostalgic local flavors to engage younger, social-media-savvy audiences. For fans of Ocean Park’s iconic residents, this campaign provides a tangible way to celebrate local wildlife through everyday dining.