KFC “Musha Colonel” Returns to 1,218 Stores Nationwide in 2026
Kentucky Fried Chicken Japan Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Yokohama, Kanagawa; President: Atsushi Najima) has announced the return of its iconic “Musha Colonel” display at KFC stores nationwide, running from April 29 (Wed., Holiday) through May 6 (Wed., Substitute Holiday), 2026. A record-breaking 1,218 stores will participate, each showcasing uniquely handcrafted samurai-armored Colonel Sanders statues made by store employees.
A Beloved KFC Tradition Over 40 Years Strong
The “Musha Colonel” tradition aligns with Japan’s Tango no Sekku (Boy’s Day) on May 5, dressing the Colonel Sanders statues and figurines in samurai armor and helmets. Since 1984, this community activity has continued for over 40 years, originating from store employees’ desire to bring joy to customers. This year, staff at each location collaborate creatively, crafting armor and helmets from recycled cardboard and paper sourced from their own stores, paying meticulous attention to design, proportions, and decorative details.
Highlights of 2026
- “Musha Colonel Coloring Sheets” (2 designs) distributed in-store (April 20 – April 28, 2026)
- First-ever limited-edition “Musha Colonel Original Stickers” giveaway (April 29 – May 6, 2026)
- “Musha Colonel Contest” on a special website (April 29 – May 10, 2026)
Coloring Sheet & Original Sticker Campaign Details
KFC stores nationwide will distribute “Musha Colonel Coloring Sheets” in two designs: a cute mascot-style design easy for young children to color, and a cool game-character-style design with intricate details for older fans. Bring your completed coloring sheet back to any KFC store and show it to staff to receive a limited-edition original sticker featuring two paired Musha Colonel designs. Only 100 stickers per store, available first-come, first-served.
Campaign Overview
- Coloring Sheet Distribution: April 20 (Mon.) – April 28 (Tue.), 2026
- Sticker Giveaway: April 29 (Wed., Holiday) – May 6 (Wed., Sub. Holiday), 2026
- Participating Stores: KFC locations across Japan (while supplies last)
- Conditions: 1 sticker per coloring sheet, first 100 customers per store
Musha Colonel Contest 2026
Following last year’s successful debut with 1,200 entries, the “Musha Colonel Contest” returns. The special website gathers photos of all unique Musha Colonels crafted by employees across Japan, viewable easily from any smartphone. Find your favorite “Oshi Musha Colonel” and cast your vote with a “♥” like.
- Contest Period: April 29 (Wed., Holiday) – May 10 (Sun.), 2026
- Results Announcement: May 13 (Wed.), 2026 on KFC official X and official note
Last year’s winners were KFC Hankyu Ibaraki Store (Osaka) in the Statue Division and KFC Sannomiya Sun Plaza Store (Hyogo) in the Figure Division, praised for bold, pop designs and elaborate detailing. Don’t miss the chance to meet the Musha Colonels at your nearest KFC Japan location.