"Does Japan celebrate Christmas?" Absolutely!

But Japan’s approach to Christmas is unique, blending creativity, romance, and festive cheer. It’s a secular celebration focused on joy and connection, with customs that are as delightful as they are distinct. 
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Let’s dive into the charming details that make Christmas in Japan so special and give you some insider tips to make it a Merry Kansai Christmas!
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5 Fun Facts About Christmas in Japan

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1. Christmas is for Lovers

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Christmas in Japan is less about family and more about romance. For couples, Christmas Eve is the big day, much like Valentine’s Day in other countries. Elaborate dates, heartfelt gifts, and romantic dinners create an atmosphere of love and excitement. 

Popular restaurants and hotels are booked weeks in advance, making it a must-plan occasion - so you’d better book your Christmas stay at Kabin Hotel now!  Travel tip: be prepared to pay extra at fancy restaurants, as they often increase their prices on this special day.

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While Western families gather around the dinner table for a traditional feast, Japanese families reserve their big celebrations for New Year’s, which is a much more culturally significant holiday.

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2. Kentucky for Christmas

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One of Japan’s quirkiest Christmas traditions involves a bucket of KFC. Thanks to a 1970s marketing campaign, fried chicken became synonymous with Christmas dinner - and now an estimated 3.6 million families take part in the KFC Christmas craze. Families and couples alike pre-order their special Christmas buckets weeks ahead to ensure they don’t miss out on this crispy tradition.

Live the experience through us: Check out our Instagram Reel of Kentucky for Christmas at Osaka’s KFC buffet!

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3. Glittering Illuminations
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During the holiday season, Japan transforms into a sparkling wonderland. Streets, parks, and shopping districts feature elaborate illuminations that draw huge crowds. 

Highlights include Nabana no Sato in Mie, with its millions of LED lights, and Tokyo’s Roppongi Hills, where synchronized displays create a magical experience of over 800,000 LED lights. Walking through these illuminated landscapes feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

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4. Sweet Christmas Cakes
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The Japanese Christmas cake is a must-have: a fluffy strawberry shortcake topped with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. This dessert symbolizes joy and celebration, and bakeries across the country work overtime to meet the high demand. Securing one from a famous bakery often requires placing an order weeks in advance. The cakes, with their perfect balance of sweetness and beauty, are as much a treat for the eyes as they are for the taste buds.  

Rumor has it that last year’s convenience store Christmas Cake winner was Lawson, but we recommend department stores Takashimaya and Daimaru, for an elevated experience.

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5. It’s Business as Usual

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Just like Santa, workers in Japan must clock in on Christmas Day as it is not a public holiday. You will find schools, businesses, and restaurants open, with most celebrations taking place on the evening of Christmas Eve.

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What are the Festive Foods of a Japanese Christmas (besides KFC)?

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Japanese Christmas celebrations wouldn’t be complete without these iconic dishes:

• Sushi Platters: Sushi often makes an appearance at holiday gatherings, with families opting for beautifully arranged platters featuring premium ingredients. From luscious tuna to delicate ikura (salmon roe), these spreads bring an air of sophistication to the table.
• Roast Chicken: While KFC may reign supreme in name, many households and restaurants also prepare roast chicken for Christmas dinners. Served with seasonal vegetables or as part of a festive bento box, this dish offers a homemade touch to holiday meals.
• Festive Pizza: In recent years, pizza has emerged as a casual yet festive meal option. Chain restaurants often create holiday-themed pizzas topped with seasonal ingredients like mushrooms, decorative cheeses, and even roast chicken. These playful creations make for a relaxed but celebratory meal.

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Christmas in Japan means Magical Decorations

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Holiday decorations in Japan are an enjoyable blend of Western influences and Japanese creativity. Illuminations turn public spaces into dreamlike settings, with towering Christmas trees, whimsical winter scenes, and a touch of kawaii charm. Traditional Western symbols like Santa Claus and reindeer are often reimagined with a Japanese twist, incorporating origami-inspired ornaments and washi paper accents. Department stores, train stations, and even local shops contribute to the festive atmosphere with elaborate displays and twinkling lights.

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A Kansai Christmas: Let’s celebrate by shopping!

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When celebrating in Kansai, Christmas shopping is also an exciting holiday activity.  Kyoto and Osaka offer plenty of places to do so. 

Osaka’s Christmas Market at Tennoji Park, held from November 29 to December 25, 2024, is our top recommendation. With its festive stalls, lights, and warm holiday cheer, it’s no wonder last year’s event drew 200,000 visitors in just 25 days. 

Meanwhile, Kyoto’s department stores become enchanting havens of holiday shopping, featuring exquisite seasonal displays and unique gifts perfect for loved ones.

And when it’s time to rest, Kabin Hotels in Kyoto and Osaka provide the perfect base for your Christmas adventures. Stylish and conveniently located, they’re ready to welcome you for an unforgettable holiday season. Whether you’re strolling through Kyoto’s historic streets or marveling at Osaka’s vibrant lights, Kabin ensures your stay is as magical as the holiday itself.

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Seasonal Japanese: “Merry Christmas” in Japanese Language

Hoping to wish your new friends a Merry Christmas? It’s easy! Just say メリークリスマス (Merii Kurisumasu) – It’s a direct transliteration of the English greeting and widely used across Japan. In recent years, it has been abbreviated to メリクリ (Meri Kuri).

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What to do for Christmas in Kyoto and Osaka?

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If you’re spending the holidays in Japan, the Kansai region offers plenty of festive experiences. Kyoto and Osaka, in particular, come alive with holiday cheer. From dazzling illuminations and traditional markets to cozy cafes and seasonal treats, there’s something for everyone. For detailed recommendations, check out our "Kansai Picks: December" article for tips on making the most of your holiday season.

And when it’s time to rest and recharge, Kabin Hotels in Kyoto and Osaka are ready to welcome you. 

🎅 Don’t wait—secure your spot for the most wonderful time of the year! As they say in Japan, メリークリスマス—Merry Christmas, and see you soon at Kabin Hotels!

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