Christmas is in the air! Though it isn’t a national holiday in Japan—since only about 1% of the population identifies as Christian—the festive spirit is felt across the country. If you’re visiting Japan before New Year’s, you’ll see plenty of familiar Christmas sights: dazzling decorations, enchanting markets, and breathtaking illuminations. But what makes Christmas in Japan truly unique are the local twists on this global celebration. These traditions, distinct yet delightful, offer a fascinating glimpse into how Japan has embraced and transformed the holiday.
The history of Christmas in Japan is as intriguing as the celebrations themselves. Christianity was introduced to Japan in the 16th century, and the first recorded Christmas was celebrated in 1551. However, the religion—and its holidays—faced bans during periods of isolation and war. It wasn’t until the Meiji era (1868–1912), when Japan began modernizing and opening up to Western influences, that Christmas started to reemerge. Initially observed by foreigners and the small Christian community, the holiday gained broader popularity in the 20th century, particularly after World War II. By then, Christmas had shed much of its religious connotation and transformed into a more commercial, cultural event.
One hallmark of Christmas in Japan is the Christmas cake. Unlike the dense fruitcakes of the West, Japan’s version is a light, fluffy sponge cake topped with whipped cream and strawberries. Symbolizing prosperity and happiness, it’s an essential part of the holiday season. Another uniquely Japanese tradition is the KFC Christmas dinner. Thanks to a clever marketing campaign in the 1970s, fried chicken has become the go-to meal for Christmas in Japan, with families ordering their meals weeks in advance.
You might find some traditions surprising—or even a little puzzling. Despite its limited Christian population, Japan has wholeheartedly adopted Christmas, albeit in a more secular and commercial form. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are bursting with Christmas cheer, from markets brimming with festive goods to stunning light displays that draw visitors from near and far. Yet the Japanese take on Christmas has little to do with religion. Instead, it’s a celebration of joy, romance, and family, with customs that have been uniquely tailored to fit Japanese culture.
1. Kentucky for Christmas
A unique Christmas tradition involves enjoying a feast of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). Every year, an estimated 3.6 million families partake in this holiday custom, which has become synonymous with Christmas in Japan. This tradition originated in 1974 when KFC Japan launched its now-famous campaign, Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii (Kentucky for Christmas), promoting a festive party barrel as an alternative to turkey, which was scarce in Japan.
The idea came from Takeshi Okawara, the first KFC Japan manager, who envisioned the party barrel as a way to fill the void for Christmas dinners. The concept gained immense popularity, with families embracing the chicken meal as part of their celebrations. Today, the holiday sets, now known as Christmas Dinner Packages, make up about one-third of KFC Japan’s annual sales.
KFC restaurants are adorned with life-size Colonel Sanders statues dressed as Santa, adding to the festive atmosphere. However, due to the high demand, meals must be pre-ordered weeks in advance, and those who don’t plan ahead often face long lines on Christmas Day. Beyond the food, this tradition symbolizes family togetherness, making KFC a cherished part of Japan’s Christmas celebrations.
2. Christmas Romance
In Japan, Christmas is celebrated differently than in Western countries. It’s a festive time for friends and couples, marked by parties, dinners, and romantic outings, while New Year’s is reserved for family gatherings and traditional customs. Interestingly, Christmas Eve (December 24th) is considered the most romantic day of the year, akin to Valentine’s Day. Couples plan special dinners, exchange romantic gifts, and enjoy beautifully decorated streets. For many young people, having a date on Christmas Eve is almost essential, as the day emphasizes love and companionship over family traditions.
3. Christmas Cake
The Japanese Christmas cake, or kurisumasu keki, is a light and fluffy sponge cake layered with whipped cream and topped with vibrant red strawberries. This beloved dessert is more than just a treat—it’s a profound symbol of prosperity and cultural transformation in Japan. Its origins trace back to the post-World War II era, a time when the country was rebuilding from devastation.
During the American occupation, sweets were a rare luxury, and chocolates handed out by soldiers became symbols of hope and affluence. As Japan's economy soared in the following decades, the Christmas cake emerged as a reflection of this newfound prosperity. Its red and white colors also resonate deeply, mirroring the Japanese flag and evoking national pride.
The tradition became widespread after a confectionery company cleverly marketed the cake with the tagline, "Let’s eat cake for Christmas." Since then, the strawberry shortcake has been a holiday staple, appearing everywhere from bakeries to convenience stores in December. Families savor it as a quiet moment of joy during the holiday season, often paired with their festive feasts.
While the classic strawberry and cream version remains iconic, modern variations with chocolate Santas, snowmen, and other flavors have also gained popularity. Still, the Christmas cake stands as a humble yet meaningful reminder of Japan's journey through hardship to success, making it a centerpiece of the holiday spirit.
4. Winter illuminations and Light Displays
Winter illuminations in Japan are a breathtaking spectacle, turning cities into dazzling wonderlands during the holiday season. From mid-November to Valentine’s Day, shopping malls, parks, train stations, and historical landmarks are adorned with vibrant light displays. These illuminations range from small-scale decorations to grand, immersive audiovisual projections.
Famous sites like Tokyo Station, Osaka's Kaiyukan Aquarium, and Nabana no Sato onsen showcase unique and mesmerizing displays. Tokyo, for example, features artsy illuminations at Tokyo Station and the enchanting blue light display at Ao no Dokutsu in Shibuya. These lights not only celebrate the festive spirit but also reflect Japan’s deep appreciation for beauty and light during the darker winter months.
Whether it's streets, trees, or iconic monuments, the glowing decorations create a magical atmosphere that captivates visitors and locals alike. Japan’s winter illuminations are a must-see, offering a unique way to experience the joy of the season.
5. Christmas Markets
Japanese Christmas markets, inspired by their European counterparts, are festive hubs offering a unique blend of cultural experiences. These markets, open from November to December, feature twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal delicacies, creating a warm holiday atmosphere. Visitors can shop for intricate ornaments, enjoy mulled wine, and savor both traditional Japanese treats and international holiday favorites. A standout is Tokyo's Roppongi Hills Christmas Market, modeled after German markets, offering authentic food and drinks amidst dazzling lights. These markets are not only shopping destinations but also vibrant community spaces that celebrate the season with a Japanese twist.
6. Gift Giving and Wrapping
In Japan, Christmas gift-giving emphasizes thoughtfulness, beauty and simplicity. It’s a day dedicated to love and togetherness, creating cherished moments of intimacy and joy. This togetherness and gift giving is not just for couples, but for friends and family as well.
The art of gift wrapping in Japan, known as tsutsumi, is a deeply rooted cultural practice that embodies elegance, thoughtfulness, and respect. Unlike conventional wrapping, tsutsumi emphasizes harmony and simplicity, often using materials like washi paper, furoshiki cloth, or even bamboo leaves. Each fold, knot, and detail is intentional, reflecting the giver’s care and gratitude. Beyond aesthetics, Japanese gift wrapping often incorporates symbolism, with colors and designs chosen to convey specific sentiments or suit particular occasions. This art form transforms the act of giving into a meaningful ritual, highlighting the importance of presentation as an extension of the gift itself.
7. Anime and Pop Culture
Christmas is often centered around themes of romance and friendship. In anime and manga, Christmas episodes are commonly used to develop romantic relationships or deepen character bonds. These episodes might feature iconic characters in festive settings, often with Santa hats, celebrating the holiday in their own unique ways. Popular series like Horimiya, My Hero Academia, and Kimi ni Todoke all feature memorable Christmas episodes.
In addition, many Japanese brands release limited-edition holiday-themed merchandise during this time, featuring beloved characters dressed for the season. Christmas programming on TV adds to the festive mood, with special music shows and dramas that often include performances by J-Pop stars.
Japanese Christmas traditions are a delightful blend of international influences, cultural adaptations, and modern expressions of joy and togetherness. The country's unique take on the holiday season is a reflection of its vibrant culture, blending traditional festive cheer with modern entertainment and the universal themes of love, sharing, and celebration. Japan has made Christmas its own. Whether you’re marveling at the lights, savoring a slice of Christmas cake, or experiencing the warmth of the season, a Japanese Christmas is a joyful celebration you’ll never forget.