Christmas in Japan is not just about sparkling lights or a glowing Christmas tree, but also contains a unique culture. Instead of Western traditions, the Japanese turn this occasion into a time to share joy, enjoy Christmas cake, fried chicken and a creative festive atmosphere. Let's explore this special color!
1. Introduction to Christmas in Japan
Sparkling Christmas with giant pine trees in Japan (Photo source: Collected)
Christmas in Japan does not have a religious color like the West, but it is brilliant in its own way. The main holiday of Christmas is December 25, but the festive atmosphere starts bustling from December 23. Because this is the Emperor's birthday - a national holiday in Japan, the festival is extended from December 23 to December 25.
Although not an official holiday, Christmas here still spreads its excitement through the streets sparkling with lights, top-notch light shows and splendid Christmas trees. Instead of having a religious meaning, the Japanese turn Christmas into an occasion to meet, share joy with friends and relatives, and enjoy unique Christmas dishes.
2. Things you need to know about Christmas in Japan
2.1. Christmas cuisine in Japan
Typical dishes on Christmas Day in Japan (Photo source: Collected)
Christmas cuisine in Japan is characterized by a fusion of tradition and modern creativity. Instead of the familiar Western turkey, Japanese people enjoy a party with KFC fried chicken, a unique custom originating from the “Kentucky for Christmas” campaign in 1974. The crispy taste of KFC fried chicken has become an indispensable symbol, especially at parties bustling with sparkling Christmas lights. In addition, the delicate Christmas cake is also a great highlight, completing the festive atmosphere, while honoring Japan's highly developed baking industry.
2.2. Christmas music in Japan
Christmas in Japan has its own unique character, a blend of modernity and tradition. One of the highlights is Daiku, or Beethoven's 9th Symphony, which is often performed on this occasion at large and small stages across the country.
Epic music, combined with cutting-edge lighting technology, creates eye-catching performances that attract large crowds. This is the time when Japanese people turn to classical music and enjoy the festive atmosphere, making Christmas more special and emotional.
2.3. Christmas decoration art in Japan
Christmas in Japan is decorated simply but extremely brightly (Photo source: Collected)
The art of Christmas decoration in the land of the rising sun is full of creativity and a subtle combination of tradition and modern technology. Instead of real pine trees, the Japanese use fake pine trees, decorated with small, pretty items such as dolls, wind chimes, and paper lanterns, especially decorations folded in the unique Origami style.
Each pine tree is not only a symbol of the festival, but also a source of inspiration in shopping malls and cafes, where the space is filled with bright lights from strings of lights and tinsel. In particular, at the entrances, lucky charms are hung to wish for health and happiness, similar to the Laurel wreath in the West.
2.4. Santa Claus in Japan
During Christmas in Japan, although Santa Kuroshu is not as popular as Western Santa Claus, he is still an indispensable symbol of the holiday, often appearing with a bag full of gifts for good children. Modern lighting technology helps create a sparkling space, making Santa Kuroshu seem to come out of magic, bringing a warm and mysterious Christmas atmosphere. The Japanese believe that, thanks to the "eyes in the back of his head", Santa Kuroshu can monitor every action of children, encouraging them to be good to receive gifts.
2.5. Christmas gift giving customs
Meaningful gift boxes for Christmas are carefully prepared (Photo source: Collected)
Christmas in Japan brings a warm atmosphere and unique customs, especially when it comes to gift-giving. In the weeks leading up to the holiday, stores display a wide variety of colorful gifts, especially for children. On Christmas Day, families and friends exchange meaningful gifts, either directly or under the Christmas tree, just like Christmas in Europe.
2.6. Churches in Japan
Solemn atmosphere at a church in Japan on Christmas Day (Photo source: Collected)
During Christmas, churches in Japan hold special prayer services, usually on a Sunday near December 25 or Christmas Eve. Although the number of Christians is small, the festive atmosphere here is always warm and solemn. This is an opportunity for Japanese people to join in praying together, seeking peace, and at the same time admiring the beauty of churches through artistic lighting.
3. Activities Japanese people often do on Christmas
3.1. Enjoy the festival of lights
Admire the brilliant light festival at Christmas in Japan (Photo source: Collected)
Christmas in Japan is not only a time to exchange love but also a time to admire beautiful light festivals. During the holiday season, cities such as Tokyo, Kobe and Sapporo transform into brilliant "light gardens" lit by lanterns and millions of sparkling LED lights. This is the ideal opportunity to admire spectacular light displays and feel the warm, colorful Christmas atmosphere of the land of the rising sun.
3.2. Stroll around the Christmas market
Bustling Christmas markets in Japan (Photo source: Collected)
During Christmas in Japan, strolling through the Christmas markets is an activity not to be missed. These markets are decorated with sparkling lights, creating a warm, colorful space. You will find exquisite handmade gifts, unique Christmas decorations and enjoy typical dishes such as Christmas cookies, chocolate or mulled wine. In particular, the bustling, bustling atmosphere at the markets increases the appeal, bringing you into a Christmas experience that is both familiar and new.
3.3. Go to the amusement park
Fun-filled amusement parks at Christmas in Japan (Photo source: Collected)
During Christmas in Japan, amusement parks become the ideal destination to enjoy the special festive atmosphere. Parks such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan are decorated with Christmas lights, creating a magical and colorful space.
Special performances, fun activities and games that capture the spirit of the holiday season make this the perfect place for families and friends to create unforgettable memories together. Whether it’s the spectacular fireworks or the costumed cartoon characters, every moment at the park is filled with excitement and joy.
Christmas in Japan is not only a time to enjoy the special festive atmosphere but also an opportunity to explore the unique traditions of the land of the rising sun. Don't miss the opportunity to experience this festive season with Vietravel . Join the Japan tour to enjoy wonderful moments during Christmas and learn about the unique culture here!
Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/le-giang-sinh-o-nhat-ban-nhung-dieu-ban-chua-biet-v16054.aspx
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