With Christmas less than two days away, the last-minute gifts and preparations are surely being finalized, and Japan is no exception to this very Western tradition. Indeed, contrary to what one might imagine, the Japanese also celebrate Christmas, but in their own unique way. Between the numerous illuminations and markets set up in major cities, as we saw in the previous article, and the frenzy of gift-buying of all kinds, the Japanese have certainly made this Christian holiday their own and adapted it to reflect their own culture.
Christmas and New Year
In Japan, the Christmas season, unlike in France and Europe, is a time for romance, or at the very least, an opportunity to celebrate with friends. Christmas here doesn't typically involve family gatherings around a traditional meal. For that, people wait until New Year's Day (お正月) to get together with the whole family and enjoy the famous Osechi (おせち).
Christmas Day
As you've probably already heard or read about "original" Japanese customs, the fast-food chain KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) holds an almost sacred place during the Christmas holidays. The reason lies in the 1970s with the launch of a Christmas campaign called "Kentucky for Christmas," which introduced the famous Christmas "seal" with its pieces of chicken to share with friends or family. Thus, for many Japanese, KFC chicken (in lieu of the turkey/capon we're familiar with here) is synonymous with a traditional Christmas meal.
This is confirmed by the more than 3 million Japanese families who reportedly eat the famous fried chicken on Christmas Day. Demand is so high that it's recommended to reserve your special meal several weeks in advance and be prepared to face hours of queuing to get your hands on this holy grail.
Christmas cake or クリスマスケーキ
From small convenience stores like Konbini to department stores, Christmas cake is literally everywhere. This Japanese dessert, or Kurisumasu Keki, is simply a sponge cake topped with whipped cream and decorated with strawberries and other sweets. The difference from a regular strawberry cake lies in its decoration, featuring motifs such as sugar Santas, ribbons, and the vibrant red of strawberries. Without these decorations, it wouldn't be a true Japanese Christmas cake. Rest assured, there are many variations of this iconic Christmas dessert, and even a chocolate version for those with a sweet tooth.
Tradition holds that the first Christmas cake appeared during the Meiji period, specifically in 1910 in a European-style pastry shop in Yokohama. Prices vary and can reach over 40 euros depending on the shop and the number of decorations. It is also recommended to order it several weeks in advance.
Bonus: The Yule log as we know it in France is also very popular in Japan and can be found very easily in shopping centers and pastry shops.
Christmas markets and illuminations
From Hokkaido to Kyushu, Japan hosts European-style Christmas markets throughout the winter season. There you'll find many dishes and treats common in Europe, such as mulled wine, pretzels, pancakes, and waffles.
The Yebisu Garden Christmas Market is one of the most popular in Tokyo and has been running for nearly 20 years. It features a spectacular winter light display with over 100,000 lights, as well as authentic European food. It also houses the world's largest Baccarat chandelier, with over 8,000 crystal pieces.
The Christmas market at the Yokohama Brick Warehouse is also a great option. During this period, you can admire a Christmas tree about 10 meters tall, as well as an ice rink right next to the warehouse. The immediate proximity to the sea and the red bricks give this market a very special atmosphere. Be aware that you will need to book your ticket in advance, as this market is very popular in the run-up to the holidays.
Christmas Parade at Disneyland
Tokyo Disney holds its annual Christmas parades starting in early December. They feature everything you'd expect from a Christmas parade: colorful and festive costumes, music, gifts, and even an appearance by Santa Claus on his float. In Japan, Disneyland isn't just a place for families and children to go out; it's also a popular, if not essential, Christmas Eve destination for couples.
Continue reading!
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