Mochi is a popular food in Japan, especially during the New Year's holiday. Tokyo Fire Department officials advise cutting mochi into small pieces and chewing thoroughly before swallowing.

An elderly woman died and five other people were in serious condition in the Tokyo area after choking on “mochi” sticky rice cakes between Jan. 1 and 3, the Tokyo Fire Department said.

Four women in their 80s died in Tokyo after choking on “mochi” sticky rice cakes, which are traditionally eaten at the start of the New Year, Tokyo’s Fire Department said. They were among 16 ...