KISS' Black Buns Return To Japan With Gooey Center

Remember that time we reviewed a black-bunned burger? Prepare yourself for something that may just be even more of a departure from what you'd normally call "appetizing." This is the KISS Steamed Bun, seen here courtesy of Japan's own Circle K Sunkus chain of convenience stores. They're also known as "Spicy Chili Tomatoman by KISS". They're black on the outside and "hot and spicy" on the inside. The Circle K Sunkus brand promises that these buns and their centers will be "hotter than hell" – per the KISS song and album.

Just 300,000 of the hot buns will be sold with unique KISS symbols. Each bun will cost 130 yen, right around $1.10 USD each. Each bun is made with bamboo charcoal to give them a dark exterior, while insides contain red petters and jalapeño powder to retain a "geki-kara" (extra spicy) taste.

This is just one of a variety of oddities popping up in Japan this week for the return of KISS to Toyko and surrounding areas. KISS is headed on a worldwide tour this year.

Feb 23 – Nippon Gaishi Hall – Nagoya

Feb 25 – Osaka Castle Hall – Osaka

Feb 26 – Hiroshima Sun Plaza – Hiroshima

Feb 28 – Sekisui Heim Super Arena – Sendai

Mar 3 – Tokyo Dome – Tokyo

The image you see above comes from Harue Sugano, captured in a Tower Records in Shibuya, Tokyo. Displays like this are going up all over Japan to celebrate the return of KISS to the country.

Ticket photo via @nonoko_g. You'll also find this "wheelchair lane only" entrance to a KISS-toting memorabilia store in Tokyo.

Be sure to take a peek at our coverage of KISS' appearance during CES 2015 for Harman as well. And follow our entertainment tag portal for more!