Christmas in Japan: KFC, Christmas Cake and City Lights — What to Expect on Your Trip

Christmas isn't a public holiday in Japan

December 25 is a regular working day in Japan, and most shops, restaurants and sights stay open. Christmas is more of a fun seasonal event than a family holiday. The big family holiday in Japan is New Year (Oshogatsu).

A night for couples and friends

Rather than a family gathering, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are often a time for couples to go out on a romantic date and exchange gifts. Friends also get together for parties. If you're hoping to have dinner out on December 24 or 25, booking ahead is a good idea.

Fried chicken — and the KFC tradition

Turkey is rare in Japan. Instead, fried chicken is the most popular Christmas dish, and a Christmas meal from KFC has become a well-known custom. According to KFC Japan's official company history, it held its first Christmas campaign in December 1974.

If you'd like to try a Japanese-style KFC Christmas, check KFC Japan's website for its holiday menus before you go.

Christmas cake

Another Christmas staple in Japan is the "Christmas cake". Bakeries, cafés and department stores sell many kinds, and you'll see them on dessert tables all over the country. Seasonal drinks and sweets at cafés are part of the fun too.

Illuminations everywhere

From autumn, cities across Japan light up with winter illuminations. Some end on December 25, while others continue until spring — so even if you visit after Christmas, you can still enjoy the lights.

After Christmas: getting ready for New Year

Once Christmas is over, Japan quickly switches to New Year mode. The New Year holiday typically runs from December 29 to January 3, depending on how the days fall, and some businesses close for a few days. On New Year's Eve, many shrines hold events, and people make their first shrine visit of the year after midnight on January 1.