The Musha Colonels are back!

Since 1984, a Japanese tradition has brought the return of “Musha Colonel” (aka Samurai Colonel) to the entrances of KFC restaurants across Japan for a limited time each year. May 5th is Children’s Day in Japan and to celebrate the holiday, young boys traditionally don a samurai helmet or samurai armor.

Known in Japan as “Kentucky no Oji-san” (which translates to “Uncle Kentucky” or “Old Man Kentucky”), Colonel Sanders has joined in on the Children’s Day tradition by way of these statues. Each restaurant team is responsible for designing their Colonel’s outfit and even handmaking his attire, ensuring that every Musha Colonel is unique. This year approximately 100 restaurants across the country will be participating in the tradition.

Check out some of the great Samurai Colonels below!