rice riot
Historical term referring to major rice riots in Japan, especially the 1918 Rice Riots (米騒動). Used in historical and political contexts.
The Rice Riots of 1918 spread nationwide, triggered by soaring rice prices.
widespread rice shortage; rice panic
Jocular, humorous use likening a temporary rice shortage or panic buying to the historical riots. Often used in news headlines or casual conversation about empty rice shelves.
After the typhoon, there was a rice panic at the supermarket.