Christmas in Japan is quite different from the traditional Western celebration. While it may not be a national holiday, Christmas is still celebrated with a unique and interesting twist. Here are some fun and fascinating facts about Japanese Christmas traditions.
Christmas Cake
In Japan, Christmas cake is a must-have dessert during the holiday season. The cake is usually a sponge cake decorated with whipped cream and strawberries. Japanese people believe that eating Christmas cake will bring happiness and good luck in the coming year.
Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve is considered the most romantic day of the year in Japan. Couples often exchange gifts and enjoy a romantic dinner together. It's also a popular day for marriage proposals.
KFC Christmas Bucket
KFC is a popular Christmas tradition in Japan. It's not uncommon for people to order a KFC Christmas bucket months in advance. The tradition started in the 1970s when KFC launched a "Kentucky for Christmas" marketing campaign.
Illuminations
Illuminations are a popular attraction during the Christmas season in Japan. Cities and towns across the country are decorated with millions of sparkling lights and festive displays.
Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are becoming more and more popular in Japan. These markets offer a variety of festive foods, drinks, and gifts.
Christmas Music
While Western Christmas music is popular in Japan, there are also many Japanese Christmas songs. One of the most famous is "Last Christmas" by Japanese pop group, "EXILE."
Christmas Train
Christmas-themed trains are a unique way to celebrate the holiday season in Japan. These trains are decorated with festive lights and decorations, and some even offer special Christmas meals.
Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is another popular Christmas dessert in Japan. It's similar to the Christmas cake, but instead of whipped cream, it's topped with fresh strawberries and cream.
Christmas Illuminations Cruise
During the Christmas season, you can take a cruise through Tokyo Bay to see the beautiful illuminations from the water. It's a unique way to experience the festive atmosphere.
Santa Claus
In Japan, Santa Claus is known as "Santa-san." He's often depicted wearing a blue outfit, and his personality is more reserved than the jolly, boisterous Santa Claus in the West.
Christmas Cards
Exchanging Christmas cards is a popular tradition in Japan. Many Japanese people send cards to their friends and family, and some even make their own cards.
Christmas in Japan is not Religious
While Christmas is celebrated in Japan, it's not a religious holiday. Only a small percentage of the population is Christian, so the holiday is more of a cultural celebration than a religious one.
Christmas in Japan is Commercialized
Christmas in Japan is a highly commercialized holiday. Stores and businesses decorate with festive displays, and there's a lot of pressure to buy gifts and participate in the festivities.
Christmas Eve is a Busy Night for Restaurants
Christmas Eve is one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants in Japan. Many people go out to eat with their friends or loved ones to celebrate the holiday.
Christmas Eve is a Busy Night for Hotels
Christmas Eve is also a busy night for hotels in Japan. Many couples book rooms for the night to enjoy a romantic Christmas together.
Christmas is a Time for Giving
While gift-giving is a part of many Christmas celebrations around the world, it's especially important in Japan. It's customary to give gifts to friends, family, and coworkers during the holiday season.
Christmas is a Time for Reflection
In addition to the festivities, Christmas in Japan is also a time for reflection. Many people take the opportunity to think about the past year and set goals for the coming one.
Christmas is a Time for Peace
Finally, Christmas in Japan is a time for peace. It's a time to come together with loved ones and celebrate the season of goodwill and kindness.