Christmas In Japan: A Big Holiday?

In Japan, Christmas is not a national holiday, but it has become more popular in recent years, especially among young people. The way Christmas is celebrated in Japan is unique and different from Western countries.

While Christmas is not a traditional Japanese holiday, it has become a popular event in recent years, especially among young people. The holiday is often celebrated with a focus on romantic love, gift-giving, and festive lights. In this article, we will explore how Christmas is celebrated in Japan and what makes it unique.

History of Christmas in Japan

Christmas was first introduced to Japan in the 16th century by Portuguese missionaries, but it didn't gain popularity until the Meiji period (1868-1912). During this time, Japan opened up to the West, and many Western customs, including Christmas, were adopted.

However, Christmas didn't become a widely celebrated holiday in Japan until after World War II. In the 1950s and 1960s, American culture, including Christmas, was introduced to Japan through media and cultural exchange programs.

How Christmas is Celebrated in Japan

Christmas is celebrated on December 25th in Japan, but it is not a national holiday. Many businesses and schools are open on Christmas Day, and it is not a traditional holiday in Japanese culture.

Instead, Christmas is often celebrated as a romantic holiday, similar to Valentine's Day in the West. Young couples often go on dates, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive lights and decorations.

In addition to romantic celebrations, Christmas is also a time for families to come together and enjoy festive foods, such as Christmas cake and Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). Yes, you read that right! In Japan, KFC is a popular Christmas food, thanks to a successful marketing campaign in the 1970s.

Unique Christmas Traditions in Japan

There are several unique Christmas traditions in Japan that are worth noting. Here are a few:

• Christmas Lights (Winter Illuminations)

Christmas lights, or "winter illuminations," are a big part of Christmas celebrations in Japan. Many cities and towns are decorated with elaborate light displays, often featuring anime characters, animals, and festive designs.

• Christmas Eve as a Romantic Holiday

As mentioned earlier, Christmas Eve is often celebrated as a romantic holiday in Japan. Young couples often go on dates, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive lights and decorations.

• KFC for Christmas Dinner

KFC is a popular Christmas food in Japan, thanks to a successful marketing campaign in the 1970s. Many Japanese people order KFC meals on Christmas Eve, and it's not uncommon to see long lines at KFC restaurants on Christmas Day.

Christmas in Japan: A Growing Trend

While Christmas is not a traditional Japanese holiday, it has become more popular in recent years, especially among young people. According to a survey by the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the number of people celebrating Christmas in Japan has increased significantly over the past few decades.

In fact, a survey by the Japanese advertising agency Dentsu found that in 2020, 61.4% of Japanese people planned to celebrate Christmas, up from 44.6% in 2010.

Why is Christmas Becoming More Popular in Japan?

There are several reasons why Christmas is becoming more popular in Japan. Here are a few:

• Influence of Western Culture

Japan has become increasingly influenced by Western culture, especially among young people. Christmas is seen as a fun and festive holiday that can be enjoyed with friends and family.

• Marketing and Advertising

Companies like KFC and Disney have successfully marketed Christmas as a fun and romantic holiday in Japan. This has helped to increase awareness and interest in Christmas among Japanese people.

• Increased Globalization

Japan has become more globalized in recent years, with many people traveling abroad and experiencing different cultures. This has helped to increase interest in Christmas and other Western holidays.

Gallery of Japan Christmas

Gallery of Christmas In Japan: A Big Holiday?