7-Eleven in Japan is launching a unique and auspicious new product inspired by the “Uma” (Horse), the zodiac animal for 2026. Named “Uma-nage (Rich-Butter Flavor),” these are adorable chicken nuggets shaped like horses. These special nuggets will be available in limited quantities at stores all across Japan, starting Thursday, January 1, 2026. They are a playful treat perfect for New Year’s celebrations.
“Year of the Horse” Nuggets to Bring New Year’s Luck
In Japan, there is a deep-rooted culture of celebrating the year’s zodiac animal (the “Eto” or Japanese Zodiac). The year 2026 is the “Year of the Horse.” The horse, which powerfully kicks the ground and gallops through fields and mountains, is seen as a symbol of vitality and dynamism. It has long been considered an auspicious animal that is believed to boost one’s luck in competitions and career success.
Through these nuggets shaped like the symbol of good fortune, 7-Eleven aims to support everyone’s start to the New Year. It’s common for Japanese Konbini to introduce fun and unique products like this, in line with seasonal events and cultural customs.
“Uma-nage (Rich-Butter Flavor)” 5-Piece
Price: 240 JPY (259.20 JPY including tax)
Release Date: Sequentially from Thursday, January 1, 2026
Sales Area: All across Japan
Note: As this is a limited-quantity item, sales will end once they are sold out. Release dates may also vary by store.
An Addictive, Rich Butter Flavor
The most notable feature of these nuggets is their taste. They are seasoned with a rich butter flavor, characterized by a fragrant aroma and deep umami. This appealing taste is so addictive that once you eat one, you can’t help but reach for the next. It’s a flavor that can be enjoyed by everyone, from children to adults.
A Cute Look That’s Perfect for Social Media
But what’s most eye-catching is their appearance. Shaped like a horse, the zodiac animal for 2026, they feature a design so adorable you might feel it’s a shame to eat them. This product is designed with Japan’s “SNS-bae” (Instagrammable) culture in mind, and taking pictures to share with friends is part of the fun. It could be a fun idea to post a photo of these cute nuggets along with your New Year’s greetings.
Your First Luck Test of the New Year! A Discount Coupon Lottery
When you purchase “Uma-nage,” another fun surprise awaits: a “discount coupon lottery” where you are guaranteed to win a discount coupon.
The lottery prizes include a first prize (200 JPY off), a second prize (100 JPY off), and a third prize (50 JPY off), and you are guaranteed to win one of them. This coupon can be used from January 1 to 31, 2026, when purchasing any “Agemono” (fried food) items sold at the 7-Eleven hot snack counter. Next to the register at a Japanese Konbini, various hot snacks like “Karaage-bo” (fried chicken sticks) and “American Dogs” (corn dogs) are displayed, making this the perfect chance to try them at a discount. Why not test your luck at the beginning of the New Year?
Japanese Konbini are more than just places to buy products; they also offer seasonal fun and cultural experiences. If you have the chance to visit Japan at the beginning of 2026, be sure to stop by the nearest 7-Eleven to celebrate the New Year with these auspicious “Uma-nage.”
Source (Japanese): 2026年の干支「午」のナゲット発売！「ウマなげ（こくウマバター味）」を1月１日（木）から数量限定で登場！(※1)
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