introduction
Christmas in Japan is a fascinating blend of Western traditions and unique Japanese customs. While it is not a state holiday and has no significant religious meaning for most Japanese people, the festive season is embraced with excitement and inventiveness. Let’s investigate five surprising facts about how Christmas is celebrated in Japan.
The Popularity of Christmas in Japan
Christmas has been observed in Japan since the late 19th century, but it wasn’t until the post-World War II era that it started to gain broad appeal. The impact of Western culture, notably from the United States, played a vital role in influencing how the holiday is observed today.
Christmas as a Romantic Holiday
Unlike in many Western countries where Christmas is a family-centered holiday, in Japan, it is typically considered as a romantic occasion akin to Valentine’s Day. Couples make reservations at restaurants, enjoy romantic walks under lighted streets, and exchange gifts. Popular date destinations include Tokyo Disneyland and numerous holiday illumination activities.
KFC for Christmas Dinner
One of the most interesting Christmas customs in Japan is eating KFC. This habit started in the 1970s when KFC created a popular marketing campaign dubbed “Kentucky for Christmas.” The advertising resonated so well with the Japanese that now, many families buy KFC weeks in advance to ensure they have their fried chicken feast on Christmas Eve.
Christmas Decorations and Illuminations
Japanese cities light up with stunning Christmas decorations and illuminations over the holiday season. From towering Christmas trees at shopping malls to extravagant light shows in public parks, the decorations create a beautiful atmosphere. Famous places for Christmas illuminations include Tokyo Midtown, Shibuya Blue Cave, and Nabana no Sato.
Christmas Cakes
A Christmas cake in Japan traditionally means a sponge cake adorned with strawberries and whipped cream. This tradition started in the 1920s and has become a hallmark of Japanese Christmas celebrations. Bakeries and convenience stores across the country sell these cakes, often embellished with festive patterns.
Gift-Giving Practices
Gift-giving during Christmas in Japan differs from the West. Instead of a massive exchange of gifts, it’s more customary for couples and close friends to give tiny, thoughtful items. Popular gifts include jewelry, accessories, and desserts. The New Year’s celebration, rather than Christmas, is the principal time for families to give gifts.
Santa Claus in Japan
Santa Claus, known as “Santa-san” in Japan, is a popular figure during the Christmas season. However, Japan also has its own gift-bringer from legend, Hoteiosho, who is a benevolent, portly person supposed to provide gifts to youngsters. The image of Santa Claus, with his red suit and white beard, has been widely adopted in Japan, regularly appearing in advertising and decorations.
Christmas Events and Festivals
Throughout December, many Christmas markets and festivities crop up over Japan. These festivities generally feature European-style kiosks offering ornaments, gifts, and seasonal cuisine. Some of the most popular Christmas markets are staged in sites like Yokohama’s Red Brick Warehouse and Osaka’s Umeda Sky Building.
Religious Aspects
While only a small percentage of the Japanese population identifies as Christian, the religious parts of Christmas are commemorated by these communities. Churches offer Christmas services and concerts, which are attended by both Christians and non-Christians intrigued about the traditions.
School and Work During Christmas
In Japan, Christmas is not a national holiday, thus schools and businesses remain open. However, many schools hold Christmas-themed events, and some employers could organize little parties or decorations in the office. The emphasis is mainly on sharing cheer and enjoying the joyful environment.
Media Influence on Christmas
Japanese media, especially television series, ads, and movies, strongly impact how Christmas is regarded and celebrated. Many Christmas-themed episodes and films show around December, helping to popularize and disseminate various practices related with the occasion.
Unique Japanese Christmas Foods
Apart from the traditional Christmas cake and KFC, Japan has evolved several distinctive Christmas delicacies. For example, Christmas-themed bento boxes and festive sushi platters are popular. These meals merge traditional Japanese cuisine with the holiday spirit, delivering a unique culinary experience.
Conclusion
Christmas in Japan is a unique and vivid festival that blends Western rituals with Japanese culture. From romantic dates to KFC dinners, Christmas cakes, and spectacular illuminations, the holiday season is a time of joy and excitement. Whether you’re in Japan or just curious about global traditions, the Japanese take on Christmas offers a delightful perspective on how this holiday might be commemorated.
