I’m certain that Christmas is celebrated uniquely in your local area.
When I turned twenty, I experienced my first Christmas abroad in Canada, and I was taken aback by the stark cultural differences from Japan. Today, I’d like to offer you an insight into how Christmas is celebrated in Japan, a departure from the customs observed elsewhere in the world.
The initial surprise of celebrating Christmas abroad was the emphasis on spending it with family. During my time in Canada, I lived with a host family whose adult daughter chose to spend Christmas with her immediate family. It was a norm that intrigued me, leading me to inadvertently ask, “Why are you at home on Christmas?” In Japan, once individuals reach a certain age, they usually prioritize a romantic partner’s company or plans with friends over familial gatherings during Christmas. This contrast in how families and relatives come together for Christmas was both astonishing and heartwarming.
The holiday season transforms the appearance of towns.
In Japan, Christmas carries significance for couples and those aspiring to find romantic partners!
This is primarily because Christmas tends to shed much of its religious connotations in Japan, turning it into a special occasion. This unique positioning makes it an ideal time to express one’s feelings to someone or even propose. The city comes alive with bustling energy as restaurants remain bustling, making it one of the most exhilarating periods of the year.
This presents a fascinating juxtaposition with the customary overseas experience, where fewer shops close down and Christmas is marked by familial relaxation. If you happen to be in Japan on Christmas, do take a moment to appreciate the couples strolling through the town, on the brink of experiencing the year’s most significant romantic event.
In Japan, families with young children do celebrate Christmas at home. However, the traditions differ from those overseas, as roast or fried chicken often replace the turkey-centric meals. Kentucky Fried Chicken’s popularity during Christmas is such that even securing a reservation can prove challenging. If you’re considering a visit, be sure to plan ahead.
These distinct characteristics reveal that Christmas in Japan deviates slightly from the overseas norm. Nevertheless, the heartwarming image of parents secretly placing gifts for their little ones who believe in Santa remains a universal element across cultures. If you happen to be in Japan during the Christmas season, take pleasure in these subtle distinctions and enjoy the festive ambiance.