Calpis Day (Karupisu no Hi)

What Is Calpis Day?

July 7 is "Calpis Day." It commemorates July 7, 1919 (Taisho 8), when the lactic acid bacteria beverage "Calpis" was first sold in Japan. The day was established by Asahi Soft Drinks, which sells Calpis, and is registered with the Japan Anniversary Association.

A Drink Born on Tanabata

Calpis was developed by founder Kaiun Mishima, inspired by the fermented milk he had tasted while traveling in Inner Mongolia. Its launch on Tanabata (the Star Festival) later inspired the polka-dot design of its packaging. It arrived at the start of summer as a sweet-and-sour drink.

• Launched July 7, 1919: Japan's first lactic acid bacteria beverage.
• A connection to Tanabata: Being born on Tanabata is the origin of its Milky Way-inspired polka dots.
• A popular summer refresher: A refreshing taste perfectly suited to the heat.

The Appeal of Calpis

Calpis has a distinctive flavor that comes from fermentation with lactic acid bacteria and yeast, and it has been loved for over 100 years since its launch.

• A pioneer in lactic acid beverages: Japan's first full-fledged lactic acid bacteria drink.
• A refreshing sweet-and-sour taste: Can be diluted with water or milk to suit your preference.
• A healthy image: The mellow flavor from fermentation gives it a gentle impression.
• Endless variations: Enjoyed mixed with soda, milk, in cocktails, desserts, and more.

Fun Facts About Calpis

• Originally sold as a concentrate in glass bottles: The cartons and plastic bottles we see today came later.
• The polka-dot packaging: First used in 1922 (Taisho 11), it depicts the stars of the Milky Way in honor of the drink's Tanabata birthday. It began as white dots on blue and later became blue dots on white.
• Popular overseas too: Sold under the name "CALPICO" in some regions.
• Calpis butter: A butter made from the milk fat separated when producing the skim milk used for Calpis. It is mainly sold to professional kitchens, but a household version, "Tokusen Butter," is also available.

How to Enjoy Calpis Day

• Drink Calpis and enjoy the refreshing feel of the Tanabata season.
• Make creative drinks with soda or fresh fruit.
• Look into the history of Calpis and the science behind fermentation.
• Enjoy Calpis's polka-dot design alongside your Tanabata wishes.

A Refreshing Drink Born on Tanabata, Still a Symbol of Summer Today

July 7's "Calpis Day" is a day to enjoy a long-loved Japanese beverage with over 100 years of history. With its polka-dot design evoking the Tanabata night sky, take a moment to enjoy the gentle sweet-and-sour taste of Calpis.