Christmas may not be a traditional holiday in Japan, but it has grown into a unique and delightful celebration over the years. Unlike the Western world, where Christmas is rooted in religious and family traditions, Christmas in Japan is more of a commercial and romantic event. So, why is it so popular, and how do Japanese people celebrate it? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Japanese Christmas traditions!

Christmas first arrived in Japan during the Meiji Era (1868–1912) when Western customs began to influence Japanese culture. However, it wasn’t until after World War II that Christmas became widely celebrated, thanks to increased Western presence and influences from American culture.

The focus was less on religion and more on the festive spirit, decorations, and exchanging gifts, which quickly resonated with Japan’s love for seasonal celebrations and cute, decorative traditions.

While Christmas in Japan isn’t a national holiday, it has become a time to spread joy and love. Here are some of the key ways the Japanese celebrate Christmas:

A Romantic Holiday: In Japan, Christmas Eve is often considered a romantic evening similar to Valentine’s Day. Couples go on dates, exchange gifts, and enjoy candle-lit dinners. It’s a popular night to confess feelings or celebrate relationships.

Christmas Decorations: Cities, shopping malls, and homes are adorned with lights, ornaments, and Christmas trees. Tokyo's illuminations are particularly spectacular, drawing visitors from all over.

Gift-Giving: While gift exchanges are common among couples and friends, the tradition is less family-oriented compared to the West.

Why is Eating KFC a Christmas Tradition in Japan?

One of the most intriguing Japanese Christmas traditions is eating KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) for Christmas dinner. But how did this become a thing?

In 1974, KFC launched a marketing campaign called “Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii” (Kentucky for Christmas), encouraging Japanese people to enjoy fried chicken as an alternative to a traditional Western turkey dinner. With turkey not readily available in Japan, the idea of a festive “Christmas chicken” quickly caught on.

Today, millions of families pre-order their KFC Christmas meal weeks in advance, making it a staple of Christmas in Japan.

The Japanese Christmas Cake Tradition

Another beloved Christmas tradition in Japan is enjoying a Christmas cake. Unlike heavy fruitcakes seen in Western countries, the Japanese version is a light, airy sponge cake topped with whipped cream and decorated with fresh strawberries.

This tradition symbolizes joy and prosperity. Its red and white colors are considered festive and lucky in Japanese culture. Bakeries across Japan sell beautifully decorated cakes, and it’s customary for families, couples, and friends to share one together.

Want to spread the holiday cheer in Japanese? Here’s how:

“Merry Christmas” in Japanese is メリークリスマス (Merii Kurisumasu).

It’s a simple and widely used phrase that’s easy to remember!

Eating KFC at Christmas in Japan started as a marketing campaign in the 1970s. With turkey not common in Japan, KFC became a festive substitute and turned into a beloved tradition.

Christmas Eve in Japan is considered a romantic holiday where couples go on dates, exchange gifts, and enjoy special dinners together.

A Japanese Christmas cake is a light sponge cake topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, symbolizing happiness and celebration.

No, Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan. Schools and businesses remain open, and the major family holiday is New Year (Shogatsu).

If you want to experience the magic of Japanese Christmas traditions wherever you are, WABI-SABI Store has everything you need! From festive Japanese treats to unique gifts and traditional items, we bring a little piece of Japan to your holidays.

Explore our carefully curated selection and add a touch of Japan to your Christmas celebrations!

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