With Halloween conveniently falling on a Saturday this year, retailers are hoping to further capitalize on an event that by one estimate will generate ¥122 billion in Japan.
Like Christmas and Valentine's Day, the annual celebration is a cultural import from the West that has become a major seasonal event in Japan.
But as the phenomenon gains currency, families are decorating homes with jack-o'-lanterns and preparing costumes for parades nationwide.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.