1. Introduction
Christmas is a popular holiday celebrated around the world, with many countries having their own traditions and customs associated with it. While some countries celebrate the holiday in a more traditional way, others may have adopted different customs and practices. Japan is one such country, where Christmas has been embraced by its citizens and has become an important part of their culture. In this article, we will explore how Japanese celebrate Christmas and the impact of western culture on their festivities.
2. History of Christmas in Japan
Christmas was first introduced to Japan during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when missionaries from Europe brought the holiday to the country. It quickly gained popularity among Japanese people, who were looking for something new and exciting to do during the winter months. The holiday was further popularized by post-war economic growth, which allowed people to travel abroad and experience different cultures. Today, Christmas is widely celebrated in Japan as a secular holiday rather than a religious one.
3. How Japanese Celebrate Christmas?
In Japan, Christmas is celebrated differently than it is in western countries. One of the most popular ways to celebrate is through KFC’s “Kentucky for Christmas” campaign, which started in 1974 and has become an integral part of Japanese culture ever since. On Christmas Eve, many people will gather at KFC for a special dinner that includes fried chicken as well as other festive dishes like cake or pudding for dessert.
Other popular activities include decorating trees with lights and ornaments, exchanging gifts with family and friends, attending church services on Christmas Eve or Day, visiting Santa Claus at shopping malls or department stores (known as “Santa-san”), eating special Christmas cakes or other desserts such as strawberry shortcake or chocolate mousse cake (known as “Christmas Cake”), and watching romantic movies about love on TV during the holidays.
4. Christmas Traditions in Japan
In addition to these activities mentioned above, there are several unique traditions that have become associated with celebrating Christmas in Japan over time. One such tradition is “Christmas Cake Hunting” (Kurisumasu Kēki Hantingu), which involves searching for delicious cakes at local bakeries or supermarkets during the month leading up to December 25th each year. Another tradition is “Christmas Illuminations” (Kurisumasu Iriminēshon), which involves decorating streets and buildings with colorful lights during the winter months leading up to December 25th each year – usually beginning around late November/early December until early January of each year depending on where you live in Japan!
5 Popular Christmas Foods in Japan
When it comes to food during this time of year, there are several traditional dishes that are commonly eaten throughout Japan on December 25th each year – some of which include: Fried Chicken (Karaage), Yakisoba (Japanese Fried Noodles), Osechi Ryori (Traditional New Year’s Dishes), Tamagoyaki (Japanese Omelette Rolled Up With Various Fillings Inside), Mochi Rice Cakes Stuffed With Red Beans And Sweet Potato Paste). Other popular dishes include: Doria Rice Gratin With Seafood And Mushrooms; Korokke Croquette; Korokke Croquette Stuffed With Eggplant And Cheese; Hot Pot Dishes Like Sukiyaki Or Shabu-Shabu; Tempura Vegetables And Seafood; Sushi Rolls; Onigiri Rice Balls Wrapped In Seaweed; Cream Stews; Japanese Curry Rice With Meat Or Vegetables; Udon Noodle Soup With Tempura Toppings; And Many More!
6. Christmas Gifts and Shopping in Japan
In addition to eating delicious food on December 25th each year, another important part of celebrating this time of year is giving gifts – both big and small! Some popular items that are often given out include: clothing items like sweaters or scarves; jewelry like necklaces or earrings; beauty products like makeup sets or perfumes/colognes; electronics like tablets or smartphones; toys like dolls or building blocks sets; books/magazines/manga comics etc.; food items like chocolates/candies/cookies etc.; stationery items like pens/notebooks etc.; household items like kitchenware sets etc.; souvenirs from places you have visited recently etc.. There are also many specialty stores across Japan dedicated specifically towards selling unique gift ideas for this special occasion!
7 Impact of Western Culture on Japanese Christmas Celebrations
The influence of western culture has had a significant impact on how Japanese celebrate this festive season today – from decorations such as illuminated trees to exchanging presents amongst family members & friends alike! This influence can be seen everywhere from shopping malls & department stores decorated with bright lights & decorations mimicking those found in western countries all over the world – even Santa Claus himself can be seen making appearances at various events throughout Tokyo & other major cities too!
8 Conclusion
From fried chicken dinners at KFC to spending time with family & friends exchanging gifts – it’s clear that although slightly different from its western counterparts – Japanese still take part in celebrating this special occasion every December 25th each year! Whether you’re looking for delicious food options or unique gift ideas – there’s something out there for everyone when it comes to enjoying this festive season together no matter where you are located within Japan!
9 Resources
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What are the traditions for Christmas in Japan?
Japan has a very small Christian population so Christmas is not a religious holiday. They celebrate the beginning of the New Year just as we Westerners celebrate Christmas by sharing food and exchanging gifts with family and friends.
Why Japan doesn’t celebrate Christmas?
This is especially important because the majority of Japans population is not Christian. Thus the holiday is celebrated here from its religious roots.
Is Japan big on Christmas?
Since it is not yet a public holiday crowds and crowded hotels are rare. Its a fun trip to Japan where you can see the amazing lights and markets all over the country. Although Christmas is not considered a religious holiday in Japan it is still celebrated as a means of family reunion.
What is Japanese Christmas called?
Merry/Merry Christmas means Merry Christmas in Japanese. Hiragana: Merry Christmas Katakana: Merry Christmas
What religion is in Japan?
No single religion is particularly dominant, and people often follow a combination of practices from multiple religious traditions. According to the Government of Japan, 69.0 percent of the population practises Shintō, 66.7 percent practise Buddhism, 1.5 percent practise Christianity and percent practise other religions as of
Do Japanese people believe in Santa?
Generally yes. Japanese children generally believe that Santa Claus will bring you presents if they are good and asleep when he arrives. Parents often find out through conversation what their children want for Christmas when some children write letters to Santa.