1. Introduction
Christmas is celebrated all over the world, but it looks a little different in Japan. Santa Claus, or “Santa” as he is commonly known in the West, has a different name and role in Japan. In this article, we will explore what Santa is called in Japan and how Christmas is celebrated there.
2. History of Santa in Japan
The modern day version of Santa Claus first appeared in Japan during the Meiji period (1868-1912). During this time, American culture began to influence Japanese culture and the idea of Santa was introduced. The Japanese had no real concept of Father Christmas prior to this period, so they adopted the Western version of Santa Claus and adapted it to fit their culture.
3. Different Names for Santa in Japan
In Japan, Santa is known by several names, including Hoteiosho (豊臣秀吉), Kurisumasu ojisan (クリスマスおじさん) and Santakurosu (サンタクロース). Hoteiosho is derived from a legendary Buddhist monk who was said to have been able to bring joy and happiness to people with his magical sack of gifts. Kurisumasu ojisan translates literally as “Uncle Christmas” while Santakurosu comes from the English words “Santa Claus”.
4. Santa Claus in Japanese Culture
In Japanese culture, Santa is more than just a jolly old man who delivers presents on Christmas Eve – he also represents kindness and generosity all year round. He is often depicted as an elderly man with white hair and beard wearing a red suit with white fur trimming and carrying a large bag filled with gifts for children who have been good throughout the year. He visits children’s homes on Christmas Eve or early morning on December 25th and leaves presents for them under their pillows or by their bedsides while they sleep.
5. How the Japanese Celebrate Christmas
In Japan, Christmas has become more popular over recent years due to its commercialization as well as its western influences such as decorations, gift-giving and feasting on festive foods such as cakes and chocolates that are associated with this holiday season all around the world. However, unlike other countries where Christmas Day itself is celebrated on December 25th with family gatherings or church services; most Japanese people celebrate Christmas Eve instead by having parties at home or going out for dinner at restaurants or pubs with friends or colleagues after work hours on December 24th.
6. The Popularity of Santa in Japan
Santa has become increasingly popular among both adults and children alike in recent years due to his association with traditional Western Christmas celebrations as well as his role as a symbol of kindness and generosity throughout the year which resonates strongly within Japanese culture.As such,he has become an important part of many people’s festive celebrations each year.
7. The Future of Santa in Japan
It seems that despite being relatively new to the country,Santa Claus has firmly established himself within Japanese culture.His popularity shows no signs of waning any time soon,suggesting that he will continue to be an important figure within festive celebrations for many years to come.
8. Conclusion
Santa may have a different name in Japan but his role remains largely unchanged – spreading joy,kindness,and generosity throughout the land at Christmastime.His popularity continues to grow each year,ensuring that he remains an important part of many people’s festive celebrations for years to come.
9 References
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Goto-Jones C (2019) What Is Santa Called In Japan? [online] Available at: https://www.japaninsidersguidebookblogsite/what-is-santa-called-in-japan/ [Accessed 10 June 2021]
What do Japanese kids call Santa?
How do you say Santa Claus in Japanese? Santa Claus in Japan isnt as jolly as he is here. Instead he is called Hoteoho a gift-giving god or priest.What does Santa Claus mean in Russian?
How do they say Santa Claus in Japan?
Santa Claus is known as Santa-San (Mr. Santa) in Japan. Another Japanese gift guardian is Hotei Ozo the god of fortune in Japanese Buddhism who has little to do with Christmas. New Year in Japan is similar to the Western Christmas tradition.
What is Santa name in Japan?
Christmas images in Japan often emphasize Hotis role as Japans Santa Claus and because Hoti is depicted with eyes in the back of his head he constantly watches over children like Santa Claus so that Make sure they are truly a gift. You can decide if you deserve it.
What does China call Santa?
Sheng dan Lao ren
Santa is known as Sheng dan Lao ren in Mandarin, which translates as Christmas Old Man, and he is seen as a non-religious figure who lives in a fairytale Arctic Christmas Village in Chinas North Pole.
Is Santa popular in Japan?
Fortunately for Japanese children the idea of Santa Claus is one Christmas tradition that still exists in Japan. Like other children around the world Japanese children look forward to the arrival of Santa Claus on Christmas Eve and the gifts that await them on Christmas morning.
What are 3 nicknames for Santa?
You have no doubt discovered by now that this December visitor known to many as Santa Claus occasionally visits St. Nick St. Nikolas Kris Kringle and Santa Claus.
