Christmas in Japan features original traditions that amaze and fascinate. While in many countries, this holiday is marked by religious and family customs, in Japan, it has evolved into a more secular celebration focused on gastronomy and love. Two emblematic elements of this festive period are, on one hand, the enthusiasm for Kentucky Fried Chicken and on the other hand, the uniqueness of love hotels, which make this holiday a singular and memorable moment.
KFC, an iconic symbol of Christmas celebrations #
KFC has become a true cultural phenomenon in Japan at Christmas. Far from the traditional image of turkey, so prized in Western countries, the fried chicken from the famous fast-food chain has established itself in Japanese homes as the essential dish of the festivities. This tradition began with a clever marketing campaign launched in 1974, which offered the now-famous Christmas Party Barrel. Given the difficulty of procuring turkey, KFC quickly established itself as the ideal choice for families wishing to celebrate Christmas.
As the holidays approach, the lines lengthen in front of KFC restaurants, with customers eager to acquire their feast. In December 2023, sales figures reached new heights, with 7 billion yen recorded in just three days! This popularity perfectly illustrates how much KFC has become a well-established tradition in Japanese culture.
Strawberry cake: a sweet Christmas tradition #
Among the other must-haves for Christmas in Japan, the strawberry cake also has its place. Created in 1912 and popularized as a Christmas dessert by the confectionery company 米 “Fujiya”, this sweet cake is made of sponge cake, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries. Its festive colors and appetizing appearance make it a favored dessert during celebrations. Today, it is common to find stands in stores, train stations, and supermarkets selling strawberry cakes, which sell out in record time during the Christmas season.
Love hotels: a symbol of romance at Christmas #
Beyond culinary traditions, Christmas in Japan also takes on a particularly romantic turn. Cities illuminated with thousands of lights create a magical atmosphere, transforming this holiday into a special moment for couples. Thus, unlike in other countries where Christmas is often associated with family gatherings, in Japan, it is increasingly common for lovers to spend this magical night together.
Love hotels, known for their intimacy and convenience, are fully booked every Christmas, reflecting this trend. These establishments even offer special packages to attract couples wishing to celebrate their love on this evening. Many online guides explain how to avoid being turned away due to full bookings, revealing how popular and appreciated this tradition is.
A unique cultural fusion for an unforgettable Christmas #
The Christmas traditions in Japan illustrate a remarkable fusion between the adoption of Western customs and local cultural adaptations. Far from limiting itself to religious celebrations, Japan has managed to reinvent this holiday, adding its own elements such as the famous KFC and romantic getaways to love hotels. The Japanese have thus succeeded in giving Christmas a unique dimension that appeals to both locals and visitors seeking an unforgettable experience.
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