Christmas in Japan is a secular holiday rather than a religious one, and many of the customs and traditions have been adapted to fit Japanese culture. While Christmas Eve has become a romantic holiday for couples in Japan, it's not exclusive to them. Families also celebrate together with gift exchanges and special meals while friends and co-workers may gather for parties or outings. Many companies use the holiday season as an opportunity to boost sales through advertising and promotions, but some still find religious significance in celebrating this festive time of year.