A Day for Tapioca in Japan

Today, and November 9th annually, is Tapioca Day タピオカの日 in Japan. The commemoration was established by Azumino Foods Laboratory, a Nagano-based company known for its yogurt, desserts and chilled beverages.

The reason for the choice of November 9th for the day is twofold. One, Azumino Foods Laboratory, launched Japan's first chilled cup tapioca milk tea product in November 2002. The choice of 9 comes from the product's former nickname "Q-pon" with the letter Q being associated with the number 9.

Although bubble tea trends have come and gone, tapioca remains popular for its unique texture and versatility. Tapioca Day celebrates both this distinctive ingredient and its role in introducing a beverage craze that became popular throughout Japan.