Having it your way now may be available at a McDonald's near you: The fast-food chain's Japan unit has begun offering free extra toppings and sauce on its burgers.

According to McDonald's Japan spokesman Takashi Hasegawa, as of April 1 customers can request extra pickles, ketchup, onions, mustard and sauces on their sandwiches to a maximum of double the standard amount. That includes tartar sauce on the Filet-O-Fish and the special sauce on the Big Mac hamburger.

Mr. Hasegawa said the company had been discussing the idea for a while under its boss, Sarah Casanova, and didn't introduce it to counteract the effects of Japan's sales tax, which rose to 8% on April 1 from 5% previously.

Other burger chains including Burger King have already been providing a similar service in Japan.

News of McDonald's latest service was greeted by cheers in the Twittersphere, with fans posting images of their receipts that list orders with extra pickles and onions. "Up until now we had to refuse orders for extra toppings, but we're glad we can offer it now," Mr. Hasegawa said.