A day for 'Konpeitō', Japan's traditional sugar candy

Konpeitō is a traditional Japanese sugar candy known for its tiny, star‑like shape and bumpy surface. Each piece is made by slowly rotating sugar syrup over a core for many days, creating the distinctive uneven, angular protrusions that look like spikes. Some people describe it as a small spherical "wagashi". 

Reportedly, a Christian missionary from Portugal presented Oda Nobunaga with konpeito in a glass jar in 1569. The Japanese name Konpeito is said to come from the Portugese word "confeito" which means "sugar confection".  Initially, Konpeito was a luxury item, but by the 18th Century it had become accessible to ordinary people. Today, it's loved for its cute and delicate appearance, its pastel colors and gentle sweetness.

July 7th annually is Konpeito Day コンペイトウの日 in Japan. July 7th was chosen for the anniversary because it is Tanabata, aka the Star Festival, and Konpeito resembles tiny stars. It encourages people across Japan to “create a Milky Way of Konpeitō,” symbolically helping Orihime and Hikoboshi meet on this special day!