Unique Ways Japan Celebrates Christmas

Interestingly, the Japanese celebrate Christmas, albeit not in the Christian way. Christmas in Japan is a vibrant blend of Western traditions and local adaptations, more as a secular holiday than a religious one. Here are some key aspects that highlight this unique celebration:

1. Romantic Holiday

• Christmas Eve in Japan is often viewed as a romantic occasion, akin to Valentine’s Day. Couples indulge in candlelit dinners, gift exchanges, and luxurious hotel stays.

2. Christmas Lights and Decorations

• Illuminations, or stunning light displays, attract crowds throughout the season. Cities, shopping districts, and parks are transformed with elaborate decorations that captivate both locals and visitors.

3. KFC for Christmas Dinner

• A quirky Japanese tradition involves enjoying KFC on Christmas Day. This custom began as a marketing campaign in the 1970s and has grown so popular that many people preorder their KFC Christmas meals well in advance.

4. Christmas Cakes

• A delightful treat known as the “Christmas cake” is typically a light sponge cake adorned with strawberries and whipped cream. It symbolizes celebration and indulgence during this festive season.

5. Gift Giving

• Unlike New Year’s, which focuses on family, Christmas revolves around exchanging small gifts among friends, couples, and coworkers.

6. No Public Holiday

• Christmas is not recognized as a public holiday in Japan, meaning schools and businesses remain open. The primary winter holiday period is centered around New Year’s, which is a family-focused celebration.

7. Music and Atmosphere

• Western Christmas music fills stores and public spaces, with decorations, Santa Claus imagery, and festive spirit prevalent throughout December.

8. New Year’s Precedence

• For Japanese families, New Year’s holds greater cultural and traditional significance, rendering Christmas a lighter, more commercial celebration.

Reflecting on my time in the Netherlands and Switzerland, I decorated a big Christmas tree with shiny ornaments and lights. Here in Japan, the celebration is different. Hiromi and I chose a small wooden Christmas tree and added Santa and his reindeer. It may not seem like much, but it saves us time and effort compared to a real pine tree. We might add some lights later, but for now, this is fine.