With the Christmas season approaching, our minds wander to the joyous festivities ahead—parties, gatherings, special meals, and dazzling decorations. But what about Japan? Is Christmas celebrated there? For those intrigued by cultural diversity and travel, understanding Japan’s unique take on this global holiday can be enlightening and fascinating.
Christmas in Japan
While Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, it has become a popular cultural event, especially in urban areas. Unlike the religious undertones that Christmas holds in many Western countries, in Japan, it is more of a secular celebration focused on spreading happiness and spending time with loved ones.
How is Christmas Celebrated in Japan?
1. Romantic Holiday Vibes
Christmas Eve is often considered a romantic occasion in Japan, akin to Valentine’s Day in the West. Couples celebrate by exchanging gifts and enjoying festive dinners at upscale restaurants. It’s a time for romantic strolls under beautifully lit streets and sharing special moments.
2. KFC Christmas Dinner Tradition
One of the quirkiest aspects of Christmas in Japan is the tradition of having KFC for Christmas dinner. This started as a marketing campaign in the 1970s and has since become a beloved custom. Many families pre-order their KFC meals weeks in advance to ensure they don’t miss out on this unique tradition.
3. Illuminations and Decorations
Japanese cities are adorned with breathtaking Christmas illuminations and decorations. Streets and shopping malls light up with elaborate displays, creating a magical atmosphere that draws both locals and tourists. These illuminations often remain until after New Year’s, providing a perfect backdrop for winter outings.
4. Christmas Cakes
Another delightful tradition is the Christmas cake—typically a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream. It’s a must-have dessert for many Japanese families during this season. The cake symbolizes prosperity and is enjoyed after a festive Christmas meal.
5. Small-Scale Gift Giving
While gift-giving is not as prominent as in other countries, small, thoughtful presents are often exchanged among friends and colleagues. Gifts are generally less extravagant and focus more on the sentiment behind the gesture.
When is Christmas Celebrated in Japan?
Christmas is celebrated on December 25th in Japan, just like in many parts of the world. However, as it is not a public holiday, most people go to work or school. The celebrations are typically focused on the evening before, Christmas Eve, or after work hours.
Christmas in Japan may not follow the traditional Western format, but it offers a unique blend of imported customs and local traditions. Whether you’re a cultural explorer, a Japan enthusiast, or simply love travel, experiencing Christmas in Japan can be a delightful and eye-opening adventure.
Recently, Halloween has become more popular than Christmas among the younger generation. People dress up in costume and hit the streets to let loose and celebrate. Some economists believe that more money is spent on Halloween than Christmas.
For those interested in learning more about Japanese traditions, be sure to shop our online Kimono Shop for a large selection of Kimono and Yukata. Cherish the season and no matter how you celebrate, enjoy the occasion.
Photo: Victoriano Izquierdo.
