How do the Japanese celebrate Christmas? Just like in many other countries, Christmas in Japan is a time for family, friends, and feasting. But Christmas isn’t a national holiday in japan. However, there are some unique traditions that make Japanese Christmas celebrations special. Let’s take a look at some of them!
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The history of Christmas in Japan
Christmas in Japan has a long and interesting history. It was first introduced to the country during the Sengoku period by Portuguese missionaries. However, it did not gain widespread popularity until after World War II when Christian families and schools started celebrating it. Although it is not a traditional Japanese holiday, Christmas is now enjoyed by many people in Japan as a time to spread happiness.
Characteristics of Christmas in Japan
One of the most notable things about Japanese Christmas is that it’s not really considered a religious holiday. This is because only a small minority of Japanese people are Christian. Nevertheless, Christmas is a popular time of year in Japan, and many of the traditional holiday customs have been adopted by the general population. In December, the city is in the mood to celebrate Christmas. And many decorated Christmas trees appear in the city, and many people spend Christmas Eve with their loved ones.
KFC fried chicken is a popular Christmas dinner in Japan
Eating KFC fried chicken on Christmas has become a popular tradition among young people in recent years. This fun tradition started in 1974 when KFC launched its first “Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii!” (Kentucky for Christmas!) campaign as Christmas food. The advertising campaign was so successful that it has become a yearly tradition for many families across Japan. Many people believe that eating KFC on Christmas Day will bring them good luck in the coming year.
How to spend Christmas Eve in Japan
On Christmas Eve, many Japanese couples and friends will get together for a meal and some festive fun. A popular dish on Christmas Eve is “kurisumasu kēki”, or Christmas cake. This sponge cake is usually decorated with strawberries and whipped cream and makes for a delicious and festive dessert.
Another popular activity on Christmas Eve is to go and see Tokyo’s incredible illuminations. These light displays are truly a sight to behold and make for a magical evening out.
Christmas Cake is a popular Christmas decorations sweets
A fruitcake or sponge cake with cream cheese frosting is a popular dessert during Christmas in Japan. The Japanese Christmas cake is often decorated with red and white icing, and it is often served with tea or coffee.
Christmas Gifts in Japan
Christmas is a popular time for gift-giving in Japan. Santa Claus, or サンタさん (Santa San or Mr. Santa), brings gifts and can be seen in department stores and malls around Christmas time. Gift-giving is also popular among families and friends. Common gifts include food, snacks, fruits, alcohol, or household products.
So, there you have it! These are just some of the ways that Japanese people celebrate Christmas. If you’re ever in Japan during the holidays, be sure to experience some of these unique traditions for yourself!