Hello Kitty Partners with McDonald’s Japan for a New Samurai Mac Campaign Celebrating Boldness

Hello Kitty joins McDonald’s Japan in a new campaign promoting the Samurai Mac burger line. In the ad, debuting October 1, Hello Kitty shares words of wisdom about embracing challenges alongside actor Masato Sakai, as the limited-time Triple Thick Samurai Mac burger returns to menus on October 2.

Hello Kitty Celebrates 50 Years by Teaming Up with McDonald’s Japan for a Bold Samurai Mac Campaign

Sanrio's beloved Hello Kitty finds herself in quite a predicament in her latest advertising campaign. As Japan’s iconic feline celebrates her 50th anniversary, she’s not slowing down but instead diving into various collaborations to mark her milestone year. In one of her newest ventures, Hello Kitty partners with McDonald’s Japan to share her signature charm and words of wisdom—this time in support of the Samurai Mac burger line.

Unlike what fans might expect, Hello Kitty’s appearance isn't tied to a themed menu item or a particular Happy Meal set. Instead, she promotes the trio of Samurai Mac burgers alongside another 50-year-old Japanese icon, actor Masato Sakai. In the campaign’s commercial, set to air on national television starting October 1, Hello Kitty is tangled in a tree after a skydiving mishap, dangling from a parachute.

As Sakai helps free her from the branches, he questions her boldness, asking, “Aren’t you afraid of failure?” With characteristic optimism, Hello Kitty replies, “Failures are proof of challenges taken — they’re all treasures!” Her encouraging words echo the spirit of the campaign, which invites customers to embrace new experiences.

The ad further connects to introducing the “Triple Thick” Samurai Mac burger, set to hit McDonald’s menus on October 2. Just as Hello Kitty tackles her challenges head-on, customers are encouraged to enjoy the extra-thick-patty burger, reflecting that life should be lived to the fullest, no matter the obstacles.

McDonald’s Japan Reintroduces the Popular Triple Thick Samurai Mac for a Limited Time Until October 22

The promotion's centerpiece, the Triple Thick Beef Seared Soy Sauce Samurai Mac (priced at 780 yen, or US$5.39), is making its fourth appearance this year due to popular demand. Available only after 5 p.m., the burger features three hefty beef patties complemented by a rich, seared soy sauce-style sauce, offering a flavorful dinner option.

Though the Triple Thick Samurai Mac is a limited-time item, McDonald’s fans can still enjoy the Double Thick Beef Seared Soy Sauce Samurai Mac (580 yen) and the Thick Beef Bacon Tomato Seared Soy Sauce Samurai Mac (570 yen), which are permanent fixtures on the menu.

For those inspired by Hello Kitty’s wisdom, there’s only a short window to experience the Triple Thick Samurai Mac, which will be available until October 22. However, fans with lighter appetites can still enjoy Happy Meals, which features exclusive Hello Kitty toys throughout October.

With partnerships ranging from Crocs to KitKats, Hello Kitty’s 50th year is undoubtedly filled with excitement, and her collaboration with McDonald’s is yet another memorable chapter in her celebration.