What Traditional Food is Eaten During Christmas in Japan?

Christmas is a unique holiday celebrated around the world, and in Japan, it takes on a distinctive flavor. Instead of traditional Christian customs, Christmas in Japan is more about festive food, shopping, and the joy of gifts. Let's explore what traditional and non-traditional foods are enjoyed during this season.

Remarkable Christmas Tradition - KFC

Christmas with KFC is a phenomenon that has become a staple in Japan. The tradition began in the 1970s when a young KFC franchise owner came up with the idea of promoting their fried chicken as a Christmas meal. Today, you can find KFC stores adorned with Christmas imagery, and their website features festive ads teasing preorder options for Christmas chicken.

Preordering KFC for Christmas is an integral part of holiday festivities. The chicken is perfect for a casual gathering with friends and family, and it's no surprise that many Japanese homes are filled with the aroma of crispy fried chicken on Christmas Day.

The Misogynistic Joke and Its Origin

Another quirky Japanese Christmas tradition revolves around the "Christmas cake." However, the language surrounding it has taken on a controversial note. A misogynistic joke suggesting that a woman is like a Christmas cake because both are unsold after 25 has emerged, though this is not reflective of the true spirit of the holiday. Nevertheless, the cake itself is delicious and an important part of the season.

Commercialization and Retail Push

It's worth noting that commercialization plays a significant role in how Christmas is celebrated in Japan. Since Christmas isn't a traditional holiday and is not observed by the majority of the population for religious reasons, it has become a retail opportunity. Retailers often use the holiday as a chance to promote gifts, such as gloves, scarves, and even small boxes of strawberries, all wrapped up for the New Year celebration.

Decorations and Christmas Markets

Besides food, the Christmas season in Japan is marked by festive decorations and markets. Bavarian-style Christmas markets can be found in various cities, offering a taste of European holiday flair. The decorations are often adorned with holly, and visitors can enjoy ice skating as a festive activity.

Midnight to Oshougatsu - The Real Celebration

By midnight on December 26, Christmas is put on the back burner, and the run-up to the real holiday begins. This is Oshougatsu, the Japanese New Year celebration, which is a significant winter holiday. Traditional foods, seasonal decorations, and family visits mark this time. The hustle and bustle of preparing for this festival contrasts sharply with the relatively relaxed observance of Christmas Day in Japan.

KFC Struggles Post-Christmas

Interestingly, Christmas at KFC can be a mixed experience. While the restaurants are bustling with customers before and on Christmas Day, there is a noticeable drop-off in business immediately after. The aroma and atmosphere of Christmas chicken can still be felt in the stores for a few days, but it gradually becomes a distant memory.

Strawberry Cream Cake - A Decadent Treat

Another special treat during the Japanese Christmas season is the strawberry cream cake, known as a Christmas cake. Confectioners often offer these cakes in beautiful packaging, making them perfect for gift-giving or personal indulgence.

Recognizing Christmas as a Cultural Event

While Christmas is not a religious holiday in Japan, it is recognized as a cultural event. It is a time for families to come together, share meals, and enjoy the unique traditions that have been adopted over the years. Whether it's a KFC dinner or a sumptuous strawberry cream cake, the food plays a central role in making the holiday memorable.

Conclusion

The celebration of Christmas in Japan is a blend of Western traditions and local customs. From the iconic tradition of KFC and the romantic holiday of young couples to the bustling Christmas markets and the contrast with the upcoming New Year celebration, the holiday offers a unique glimpse into Japan's modern sensibilities and blending of cultures.