Christmas in Japan is a festive and colorful time, but it is different from the religious and family-centered holiday many people in the West are familiar with.
In Japan, Christmas is basically a non-religious celebration focused more on romance, decorations, and having fun. Even though it doesn’t hold the same religious or familial significance as it does in Western countries, Christmas has been adopted in Japan with its own special meaning.
Now, let’s take a look at how Christmas is celebrated in Japan and how tourists can enjoy and make the most of the holiday season.
The Cultural Side of Christmas in Japan
Not a National Holiday
First and foremost, it’s important to note that Christmas is not a public holiday in Japan. December 25th is a regular working day, and schools, businesses, and government offices remain open. However, the atmosphere during the Christmas season is still very festive, particularly in big cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.
List of Japan’s National Holidays
Romantic Holiday
Unlike in the West, where Christmas is often centered around family, in Japan, it’s more of a romantic holiday. You can think of it like Valentine’s Day. Couples will usually celebrate by going out for a romantic dinner, exchanging gifts, and admiring the city’s holiday lights. Many restaurants and hotels are likely to offer special Christmas deals that are booked well in advance. Young couples especially see Christmas Eve as a time for romantic dates.
Christmas Lights and Decorations
Japan is really extravagant with Christmas decorations and illuminations (called “illumination events” in Japan). These spectacular light displays take place in parks, shopping districts, and landmarks, making the cities glow with holiday spirit. Some of the most famous Christmas illuminations can be found in places like Marunouchi (around the Tokyo Station area), Roppongi Hills, Shinjuku, and Shibuya Blue Cave in Tokyo. In other areas of Japan, you should try Nabana no Sato near Nagoya, Ashikaga Flower Park Winter Illumination in Tochigi, or the Kobe Luminaire.
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Christmas Food
One of the most curious aspects of Japanese Christmas is the tradition of eating fried chicken, particularly from KFC. This unusual custom started in the 1970s due to a successful marketing campaign by KFC, and now it’s a major part of Christmas in Japan. Families and couples often preorder their KFC meals well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Another common Christmas tradition is the Christmas cake, a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream. It’s not a heavy fruitcake like in Western traditions, but a light, festive dessert that’s usually shared with loved ones.
Gifts and Santa Claus
Gift-giving isn’t as important to Japanese Christmas as it is in other countries. However, children might receive a small gift from Santa-san (Santa Claus), and some couples or friends exchange gifts, but it’s not the big event seen in the West. Most people focus on the experience of Christmas, such as going out to see lights or enjoying a nice meal, rather than extravagant gift exchanges.
New Year’s vs. Christmas in Japan
For many Japanese families, New Year’s (Oshogatsu) is the most significant holiday of the year, rather than Christmas. It’s a time for family gatherings, religious visits to shrines, and eating traditional New Year’s food (osechi). It’s true that Christmas may be festive and fun, but it’s New Year’s that holds the most cultural and familial importance in Japan. Tourists visiting Japan during this period will notice a strong difference between the more commercial Christmas and the highly traditional New Year’s celebrations.
Christmas in Japan for Tourists: What to Expect
For tourists, visiting Japan during Christmas can be a magical experience. The lights, decorations, and unique customs provide a festive atmosphere, but there are some essential things to know and prepare for if you’re visiting during this time.
Cities Decorated in Lights
The most obvious change during the Christmas season in Japan is the abundance of Christmas illuminations and decorations. Popular areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama are filled with amazing light displays. Some illumination events run from late October all the way through to January, giving tourists plenty of time to experience them. These light shows often have a romantic theme, so you’ll see couples walking around and posing for photos. Major shopping streets and malls also have Christmas trees, decorations, and festive music, making the atmosphere lively and pleasant.
Christmas Shopping
Tourists will find Christmas sales in many stores, particularly in large department stores and malls. If you’re looking to do some holiday shopping, Japan has plenty of seasonal items like Christmas-themed sweets, home decor, and clothing. However, be aware that Christmas isn’t followed by discounted sales, like in other countries, so discounts tend to end on Christmas Day itself.
Busy Restaurants and Hotels
Since Christmas Eve is also a romantic time in Japan, many restaurants and hotels are fully booked weeks in advance. If you plan to have a special Christmas meal or stay in a high-end hotel, it’s a good idea to reserve early. Notice that restaurants offering special Christmas menus can be expensive. Additionally, many places focus on providing an intimate, luxurious experience rather than large family reunions.
Klook.comKFC Reservations
absolutely necessary to make a reservation ahead of time. KFC branches offer special Christmas buckets, which often sell out due to high demand. Even if you’re just curious to taste it, it’s worth booking early or ordering in advance.
How Tourists Can Be Prepared for Christmas in Japan
Plan Early for Romantic Dining Experiences
If you’re visiting Japan as a couple, and you’d like to participate in the Japanese custom of a romantic Christmas dinner, make sure to book your restaurant early. Many popular dining spots offer Christmas specials, but they may be fully booked by mid-December.
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Otherwise, here are some great dining experiences you might want to try:
Expect Regular Business Hours
Because Christmas is not a national holiday, most shops, tourist attractions, and transportation services run on normal schedules. In most parts of Japan, December 25th will feel like a regular day. In other words, don’t worry about places being closed. However, restaurants and places that are directed to Christmas couples may be crowded.
Public Transportation
Public transportation, including trains and buses, operates normally during Christmas. However, as New Year’s approaches, many public services will have limited hours or close for a few days. Be sure to check schedules if you’re staying through the end of December. For long-distance travel, like using the shinkansen, it’s better to reserve your seats in advance.
Weather Considerations
Christmas in Japan usually means winter weather. In cities like Tokyo or Osaka, it’s generally cold, with temperatures ranging from 5 °C to 10 °C (41 °F to 50 °F). In northern areas like Hokkaido, you can expect snow. You should pack warm clothes and be prepared for potentially cold outdoor activities, such as enjoying Christmas lights or visiting temples and shrines.
New Year’s Overlap
If you’re staying in Japan through the New Year, prepare yourself to change your itinerary. Temples and shrines will be busy with visitors participating in hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year), so plan your sightseeing accordingly. Also, be aware that many businesses and tourist attractions will close around January 1st for a few days. Therefore, this is not the best time for shopping or visiting shrines and temples.
Final Thoughts
Christmas in Japan is a curious mix of Western customs, romance, and light-hearted fun. Tourists visiting during the holiday season will be greeted with fantastic illuminations, romantic dining spots, and a different perspective on festive traditions like eating KFC or enjoying a beautiful Christmas cake. Although Christmas may not have the strong religious meaning it does in other parts of the world, it’s still an exciting time to explore Japan, especially for those looking to experience a unique cultural perspective on the holiday season.
