What to Know About Spending Christmas in Japan
Our essential guide to making the most of this untraditional holiday season.
Spending Christmas in Japan is a unique experience. Since there are not many Christians in Japan, it actually remains a workday for most people and the celebrations that do take place are devoid of religious connotations. Instead, it has become an interesting hybrid of Western and Japanese traditions, from illuminations to KFC dinners! If you are planning to spend Christmas in Japan, it will likely be very different from what you are used to, but is still an exciting and festive time to visit.
Our holiday guide lets you know what to expect when spending Christmas in Japan.
A holiday for couples
In Japan, Christmas Eve tends to be a holiday for couples, along the same lines as Valentine’s Day. Young couples often exchange gifts and book dinners at romantic restaurants. If you want to dine out, be sure to make reservations early since many places book up. Beyond couples, it is not usual for other people in Japan to exchange gifts.
Christmas Illuminations
Since people in major cities tend to live in small apartments, individual Christmas decorations and Christmas trees are rare. Not to worry, however! Most larger cities have stunning public illuminations to get you in the festive spirit.
Check out this helpful list of illuminations throughout Japan.
Christmas Markets
European-style Christmas markets can be found throughout Japan during the winter season. These have everything you would expect, from handmade crafts to hot cider and snacks. Some of our favorite Christmas markets in Tokyo include:
Tokyo Christmas Market
Sponsored by the German Tourism Associations and the German Embassy, this is Tokyo’s largest Christmas market. Known for its 14 m high Christmas pyramid imported straight from Dresden City in Germany, the market is relocating from Hibiya Park to Shiba Park this year. It features a large number of small huts selling traditional Christmas food, drinks, and ornaments.
Roppongi Hills Christmas Market
This is Tokyo’s oldest Christmas market and is inspired by the world’s largest Christmas market held in Stuttgart, Germany. The market features German Christmas food and drink, as well as a large selection of Christmas crafts. This is also a great spot to catch some winter illuminations.
Tokyo Skytree Town Dream Christmas
This Christmas market combines festive decorations and illuminations, including some lighting effects on Tokyo Skytree itself, with traditional market stands selling food and drink.
Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market
Located slightly further out, in a red brick warehouse in Yokohama, this market has plenty of exciting market stalls, a Christmas tree, and even a large ice rink!
KFC
In my opinion, this is the most fascinating facet of Christmas in Japan. Thanks to some clever marketing back in the 1970s, Christmas in Japan has become synonymous with Kentucky Fried Chicken. The fast-food chain offers special Christmas menu items including cake, stuffing, and even wine! Most people will book their KFC Christmas meal weeks in advance, while others will queue for hours to get their hands on those festive buckets. You can find out more about this fascinating tradition here.
Start planning your festive trip to Japan.