Christmas In Japan
While Christmas is celebrated in just about every country in some capacity, the way it is celebrated can be very different. In America and many Western countries, Christmas is a family holiday. Whether you’re single, in a relationship, or married, there’s the expectation that you will spend the holiday with your family or your chosen family. In Japan, however, Christmas is seen as a holiday for couples. That is not to say that families don’t celebrate it the traditional way, but they’re not in the majority.
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What’s Christmas like for couples?
According to Jrail Pass, “Christmas is the time for friends and couples to have parties, make plans to meet up for dinner, and celebrate as much as they can.” It’s common for restaurants to offer special holiday romantic services for couples. Couples take advantage of these specials and take romantic strolls through illuminations and Christmas markets. However, something important to note is that couples exchange gifts on Christmas Eve.
While turkey, hams, pies, and dressing are the standard on many people’s Christmas menus, KFC chicken has become a common Christmas meal. How did KFC become the star of Christmas? In the 1970s, Takeshi Okawara, the manager of the first KFC in Japan, had the idea of a party barrel of chicken being used to replace turkey after hearing foreigners lament not having turkey on Christmas. The idea spread, and in 1974, Kentucky for Christmas spread nationwide and became a staple in Japanese homes. If a bucket of KFC is something you want to experience in Japan, be sure to place your orders in November.
While Christmas cakes are common in America, the kind of cake varies depending on the state. In Japan, the sponge cake covered in strawberries and whipped cream is the Christmas cake. While the cake may seem simple, it holds a deeper meaning. “It became a symbol of prosperity and modernity as Japan rebuilt itself after World War II. Today, it’s a cherished tradition for Christmas, birthdays, and other celebrations, embodying both sweetness and cultural significance”.
Let us know in the comments below how YOU celebrate Christmas in your country or what other winter holidays you have instead! Send us photos of you or someone you know giving back during the holiday season! @givingtuesdayjapan #givingtuesdayJP
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