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Christmas in Japan
Christmas is not widely celebrated in Japan as not many people there are Christians. However, several customs have come to Japan from the U.S.A. such as sending and receiving Christmas Cards and Presents.
In Japan, Christmas in known as more of a time to spread happiness rather than a religious celebration. Christmas eve is often celebrated more than Christmas Day. Christmas eve is thought of as a romantic day, in which couples spend together and exchange presents. In many ways it resembles valentines day celebrations in the U.K. and the USA
In Japanese Happy/Merry Christmas is 'Meri Kurisumasu'. Happy/Merry Christmas in lots more languages.
Parties are often held for children, with games and dancing. Japanese Christmas Cake is a sponge cake decorated with trees, flowers and a figure of Santa Claus.
Fried chicken is often the traditional meal of Christmas day. It is the busiest time of year for restaurants such as KFC and people can place orders at their local fast food restaurant in advance!!!
The Japanese New Year (called 'o shogatsu') is more like a traditional Western Christmas. New year is the period where families get together, have a special meal, pray and send greetings cards. New year is celebrated over five days from December 31st to January 4th and is a very busy time.
Thank you to Sarah Marie Casey for her help in giving me information on Christmas in Japan!