Ever wondered how Christmas is celebrated in the Land of the Rising Sun?
While Japan's not the first place you might think of when it comes to the festive season, it's still packed with that special holiday magic.
From urban illuminations to the traditions of Christmas Eve, get ready to explore how Japan gets into the seasonal spirit!
If you plan to go there for Christmas, don't forget to bring an iRoamly Japan travel eSIM to stay connected and share festive moments with loved ones back home in real time.
Do they celebrate Christmas in Japan?
Despite not being a public holiday, Christmas is a big deal in Japan, albeit celebrated rather differently.
It's less about religion and more about romance and merrymaking – a time when towns light up and people come together, all in the name of fun and festivities. The season holds plenty to enjoy, for both locals and tourists alike.
In Japan, Christmas is a season of love and joy. Lights displays are a big thing all over the country, including in Tokyo and Osaka, that draw thousands of couples and families, while Christmas Eve is often a more significant event than the big day itself, a time to take your special someone on a date and exchange gifts.
Why do they eat KFC at Christmas in Japan?
The tradition of eating KFC at Christmas in Japan dates back to a phenomenally successful marketing campaign in the 1970s. At the time, KFC overheard — or, depending on the version of the story, convinced – a group of foreigners to say they missed turkey for Christmas.
Ever the opportunist, the manager of the country’s first KFC branch, Takeshi Okawara, saw an opening and promoted fried chicken as a suitably American-style replacement bird. The "Kentucky for Christmas" campaign was an instant smash, with the idea of a chicken dinner catching on in a country that didn’t have its own widespread tradition of festive feasting.
The campaign was so successful that it became a Christmas tradition in its own right, with KFC’s Christmas dinner ordered in advance by families all over Japan. Among fun facts about Japan, this quirky tradition stands out as a beloved part of the holiday season.
Today, Christmas chicken is a classic element of the holiday season in Japan.
What to expect on the Christmas menu in Japan?
Here are three more examples of foods enjoyed in Japan at Christmas, beyond the usual KFC:
1. Christmas Cake: A classic Japanese Christmas cake consists of a sponge cake covered in whipped cream and garnished with strawberries, so light and sweet to taste it's almost a year-round dessert.
2. Toshikoshi Soba: Another culinary tradition more familiar on New Year's Eve, Toshikoshi Soba is sometimes enjoyed during the Christmas season. The buckwheat noodles are eaten to symbolize the transition from one year to the next, and to achieve long life and good health.
3. Kurisumasu Keiki (Christmas Cookies): Christmas cookies, as Kurisumasu Keiki are widely popular festive treats. Often highly decorative, with all sorts of shapes and frosting typical, the cookies are widely served or given as gifts throughout the Christmas season.
How to celebrate Christmas in Japan
1. Winter Illuminations (Nabana no Sato)
The Winter Illuminations at Nabana no Sato are famous for turning the gardens into a dazzling light wonderland. With features including expansive light tunnels and thematic displays, guests are enveloped in a fairytale atmosphere.
Where: Nabana no Sato, Mie Prefecture
Tip: No advance booking required; visiting on a weekday will be less crowded.
2. Tokyo Disneyland’s Christmas Fantasy (Tokyo)
The theme park gets a seasonal makeover for Tokyo Disneyland's Christmas Fantasy, decked out in decorations, glittering parades, and exclusive festive shows. An unmissable experience for children and the young at heart.
Where: Tokyo Disneyland, Tokyo
Tip: Book your tickets in advance, especially over the Christmas period.
3. German Christmas Markets (Yokohama and Osaka)
Get a taste of Europe at the German Christmas Markets in Yokohama and Osaka. The markets offer a selection of German-style crafts, foods, and Christmas items, all set against a backdrop of lights and music.
Where: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse / Umeda Sky Building, Osaka
Tip: No reservations are needed, but evening tends to be the most atmospheric time to visit.
Handy Tips for Travelers
Planning is everything if you’re visiting Japan over the Christmas period. If you want to treat yourself to a meal in a fancy restaurant, or even just enjoy a special Christmas dinner, you’ll definitely need to make a reservation well in advance. Similarly, consider booking theme park tickets or planning visits to famous Japan landmarks before you go, to save time and potential stress standing in line.
FAQ
1. Will it snow at Christmas in Japan?
A white Christmas in Japan, especially in big cities such as Tokyo, is unlikely, but regions like Hokkaido have beautiful snowy landscapes.
2. Do you need to book to join in Christmas events?
For public events and illuminations, there’s no need to book. For theme parks and, increasingly, paid light shows, booking in advance is recommended.
3. Do you need a reservation to eat KFC at Christmas?
Yes, it’s an iconic part of Christmas in Japan and slots get booked up fast. Order your meal ahead of time to enjoy a truly special Christmas dinner.
Summary:
Christmas in Japan might not be deeply rooted in religion, but it functions as a cheerful mix of festive spirit and cultural curiosity. From spectacular illuminations and romantic strolls to a bucket of KFC, Christmas in Japan is a season to treasure.
For locals and visitors alike, there’s a warm and inclusive feel to the festive season in Japan, so create some unforgettable memories celebrating the holidays in this wonderful country!