Hey there, friends of Japan! Today we’re going to explore another holiday and dive into the magical realm of Christmas in Japan! Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Christmas in Japan? Do they even do that over there?” Absolutely, my friends! And there is nothing like Christmas in Japan.
Christmas Ninjas
First things first, forget everything you know about a traditional Christmas. In Japan, it’s a whole different ballgame, and trust me, it’s a blast! Now, I know we’re used to Christmas being all about the birth of a certain someone in Bethlehem, but in Japan, that someone might not make the guest list. Why? Well, simply put, not many folks here are Christians. So there is no religious component to the holiday. Some of the symbols and songs may work their way into decorations and the atmosphere here, but few know the meaning (which is super common for a great many foreign things here). No Jesus in the manger, no nativities, and no hymns about silent nights. It’s more about the festive vibes and spreading joy like a Christmas ninja!
So, what does a Japanese Christmas look like? Picture this: Santa Clauses, snowmen, twinkling lights, and Christmas trees as far as the eye can see! The whole shebang is about the secular side of the holiday, and let me tell you, they nail it. Kids are scribbling away letters to good ol’ St. Nick, stores are decked out like Santa’s workshop exploded, and the air is thick with the scent of holiday marketing magic.
Speaking of holiday marketing magic, here’s a curveball that might leave you scratching your head – KFC is a Christmas champion in Japan. I kid you not, it’s a thing. People here love their fried chicken on Christmas day, and you better believe you have to reserve your crispy bucket of joy well in advance. And that’s partly because there is no traditional Christmas food here. No turkey or ham or roast beef on the dinner table. But from movies and TV, many people saw what they thought was chicken (but was actually probably Turkey, except most here are unfamiliar with the meat). And so KFC could carve out a nice chunk of the Christmas holiday for themselves. It’s like a crispy, golden beacon of holiday cheer.
Even after 20 years here, it still feels bizarre to wake up, unwrap a few presents, and then wave goodbye to my wife as she heads off to work.
Cakes of Christmas Past
And just when you thought you had it all figured out, enter the Christmas cake. No, not the fruitcake gathering dust in your grandma’s pantry, but a frosted delight that has become a must-have for many Japanese families during the season. While back home, we might be cozying up to a Yule log or a slice of pumpkin pie, in Japan, it’s all about the Christmas cake. Any flavor goes, as long as it’s frosted to perfection. I guess they figured if it looks festive, it belongs on the holiday table.
A Time for Presents
One more aspect of Christmas which is the same but totally not – presents. It’s a bit like Christmas in the West, but with a twist. You know how we all eagerly anticipate presents under the tree? Well, here, it’s mostly for the kiddos. Families go all out with the whole Santa charade, presents and all. But as kids grow older, the present train often grinds to a halt. Yep, the magic spell fades away, and suddenly, the grown-ups ge left out in the cold.
Sure, younger folks might exchange gifts, and lovebirds do the same, but for many adults, it’s not a present-palooza like back in our home countries. That said, it doesn’t stop every shop in town from transforming into a festive marketplace, capitalizing on the season’s spirit. ‘Tis the season to buy stuff, right?
For the most part, so far at least, the holiday pretty much resembles the holiday we all know. Now, brace yourselves for the most shocking revelation about Christmas in Japan – it’s not a day off! Yeah, you heard me right. While back in our homelands, we’re snuggled up by the fire, sipping cocoa, and binge-watching holiday classics, in Japan, it’s just another regular work or school day. I mean, who decided that it’s okay to make people work on a day when they should be drowning in eggnog and sugar cookies?
Even after 20 years here, it still feels bizarre to wake up, unwrap a few presents, and then wave goodbye to my wife as she heads off to work. It’s like a festive tease, you know? But hey, I’m not complaining (well, maybe a little). I’ve always managed to snag the day off, but for many, it’s business as usual.
My Christmas Plans
As for my own Christmas escapade, I try to have as traditional (secular) Christmas as possible. Presents for everyone, a tree and decorations everywhere, opening presents in the morning and a ham Christmas dinner at night. This year is throwing me a curveball, however, because the 25th falls on a Monday – a regular work and school day in Japan. Bummer! So, my wife’s off to work, and my son’s packing his backpack for school. MAJOR BUMMER! We’ll probably do the early morning stocking routine, where my wife and son get a sneak peek at Santa’s overnight delivery, then they head out. I’ll then pick my nose and play video games until the dynamic duo is back, when it’s all systems go for the grand present-opening spectacle to continue around the Christmas tree. And of course, I’ll be making a feast – honey glazed ham, Mac and cheese, stuffing, candied yams (this sounds like my Thanksgiving). It’ll be nice and we’ll have fun, but for me it won’t feel like the Christmas’ back home. The sacrifices we make to live where we want to be.
So, as we navigate this holiday season, complete with workdays, unconventional present traditions, and makeshift festive feasts, I want to raise a glass of virtual eggnog to each one of you. Whether you’re celebrating a classic Christmas, lighting the Hanukkah candles, or diving into a KFC extravaganza, here’s wishing you a day filled with happiness and cheer. Until next time, may your holiday adventures be nothing short of epic!
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*I don’t use AI for my artwork. These filler images are just for fun and aren’t meant to represent my art so they have been labeled “AI GENERATED.” I want my blog to be enjoyable for you but I don’t have 2-6 hours to draw each image (this blog is done in my free time). If you’re against AI in art, please direct your criticism elsewhere (maybe someone trying to pass off AI generated images as their art). I am not doing that.
I wave a cup of eggnog in your general direction, and I’d sure like to share a bucket of KFC with you and yours. I also hope the US Postal Service manages to deliver to you our box of Christmas presents. God bless you, every one!