Characteristics and cultural differences of "Japanese Christmas" as perceived by foreigners

Christmas in Japan is very different from Christmas in the West, and has developed its own unique culture and customs.
We have compiled a list of Christmas features that foreigners find particularly "Japanese."

1. Has little religious significance
In the West, Christmas is a religious event based on Christianity, and is centered around church mass and celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. On the other hand, Christmas in Japan has almost no religious overtones and is generally enjoyed as a commercial event or seasonal event.
As a result, the focus is on parties and exchanging gifts with family and friends, with little attention paid to religious backgrounds.

2. A special day for couples

In Japan, Christmas has a strong image as "Lovers' Day" and is a day to spend with your partner, like Valentine's Day. On Christmas Eve in particular, many couples enjoy romantic dinners and dates, and luxurious restaurants and night view spots are popular.
This is quite different from Western Christmas, which is a family-centered celebration.

3. The popularity of Kentucky Fried Chicken

One of the most unique Christmas customs in Japan is "eating KFC at Christmas." In 1974, KFC launched a campaign called "KFC at Christmas," which was a huge success, and has since become a staple of Christmas. It's so popular that you have to make a reservation in advance, and the sight of people enjoying fried chicken with family and friends is a uniquely Japanese culture that foreigners find surprising.

4. Christmas cake customs

Decorated shortcake is a staple of Christmas in Japan. This vibrant Christmas cake, made with strawberries and fresh cream, is a must-have for Christmas parties at home or work. There is fierce competition to reserve cakes, and at popular stores, you may not be able to get one unless you make a reservation early.
This is another point that foreigners find unusual!

5. Not a public holiday

While in many countries Christmas is a public holiday, in Japan December 25th is a weekday and people have their normal work and school days.
For foreigners, the fact that "Christmas is not a holiday" can come as a surprise.

6. The excitement of illumination

During the Christmas season in urban areas of Japan, stations and commercial facilities are decorated with gorgeous illuminations. These illuminations are very popular as "art of light" and are also attracting attention as tourist spots. Sapporo's "White Illumination" and Tokyo's "Marunouchi Illumination" are particularly famous.
In many cases, illuminations can be enjoyed even after Christmas, making them a fresh experience for foreigners.

7. Comparison with New Year's

In Japan, preparations for New Year's begin as soon as Christmas is over.
Christmas is a "commercial event"As opposed to being treated asNew Year's is a traditional event to spend with familyMany foreigners seem surprised by this cultural contrast.

Christmas in Japan has developed as a unique culture separate from any religious background, and has a charm that is completely different from Western Christmas.
For foreigners, Christmas in Japan can be a unique and enjoyable experience, but there are also likely to be many cultural differences that will surprise and delight you.