A Sparkling Christmas in Japan: Traditions, Treats, and Twinkling Lights

Merry Christmas! Christmas in Japan is a magical time of year, filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a unique twist on traditional celebrations. While not a religious holiday, it’s embraced enthusiastically, transforming the country into a wonderland of romance and cozy delights. This blog will tell you about the Christmas traditions in Japan, where to go during this time of the year, and more!

A Quick Jump To…

• A Symphony of Lights
• The Christmas Markets
• Christmas at Disney
• The Christmas Feasts
• The Gift of Sweetness
• Additional Tips for Celebrating Christmas in Japan
• FAQ

A Symphony of Lights

One cannot talk about Christmas in Japan without mentioning the breathtaking illuminations that transform cities into dazzling wonderlands. In Tokyo, the bustling Shibuya Crossing is adorned with sparkling lights, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that captures the essence of the season. Tokyo Midtown and Roppongi Hills also host extravagant light displays, turning the cityscape into a vibrant canvas of colors that reflect the joy of the season.

Keyakizaka Illumination

• Date: 2023/11/06 – 2023/12/25
• Time: 17:00~23:00
• Location: Roppongi Keyakizaka Dori – 東京都港区六本木6-9

Midtown Christmas 2023

• Date: 2023/11/16 – 2023/12/25
• Time: 17:04～23:00 (there is a show every four minutes)
• Location: Tokyo Midtown – 東京都港区赤坂9-7-1

Check out our blog: 2023 Coto Travel Guide: Things To Do in Japan in December to check out other Christmas Lights locations in Tokyo.

The Christmas Markets

Step into the heart of the Japanese Christmas spirit by exploring the charming Christmas markets that dot the cities. These markets, reminiscent of European winter fairs, offer a delightful array of festive treats, handmade crafts, and seasonal decorations. Visitors can sip on hot cocoa, indulge in festive snacks, and shop for unique gifts while immersing themselves in the joyful atmosphere.

Tokyo Christmas Market

• Date: 2023/11/23~2023/12/25
• Time: 11:00~21:30
• Location: Meiji Jingu Gaien Niko Niko Park – 東京都港区北青山1丁目7番5号
• Entrance Fees: Adults ¥1,000 or ¥2,000 depends on dates
• Food and drinks menu

Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Christmas Market

• Date: 2023/11/24~2023/12/25
• Time: 11:00~21:00
• Location: Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse Event Plaza – 神奈川県横浜市中区新港1-1
• Entrance Fees: ¥500
• Food and drinks menu

Check out our blog: 2023 Coto Travel Guide: Things To Do in Japan in December to check out other Christmas market locations in Tokyo.

Check out our Pinterest post: Christmas Market Food and Drinks In Japan and Christmas Market Goodies In Japan for some useful vocabulary for the Christmas market!

Christmas at Disney

Christmas transforms Tokyo Disney Resort into a winter wonderland, offering a uniquely magical experience for visitors of all ages. From twinkling lights and festive decorations to special parades and shows, Christmas at Disney Japan is a must-do for any holiday enthusiast.

Tokyo Disneyland

• Event: Disney Christmas 2023
• Date: 2023/11/08~2023/12/25
• Location: 千葉県浦安市舞浜1-1
• Price: ¥9,400 – ¥10,900

Tokyo Disneysea

• Event: Disney Christmas 2023
• Date: 2023/11/08~2023/12/25
• Location: 千葉県浦安市舞浜1-13
• Price: ¥9,400 – ¥10,900

The Christmas Feasts

Instead of a traditional Christmas dinner, Japanese couples typically indulge in a special Christmas Eve dinner. KFC’s “Christmas Chicken” has become a beloved tradition, with families pre-ordering their fried chicken buckets weeks in advance. This became a staple item thanks to the influence of Kentucky Fried Chicken‘s successful marketing campaign in the 1970s.

Kentucky Fried Chicken

• Location: Use this to search for the nearest location to you!
• Food and drinks menu

Kentucky Christmas 2023

• Location: Use this to search for the nearest location to you!
• Pre-order Deadline: December 10th 2023 (Sunday) 
• Reserve it online | Reserve it in-store

Useful Phrases When Reserve KFC Christmas Menu

• クリスマスパーティバーレルを予約したいのですが。Kurisumasupātibāreru o yoyaku shitai nodesuga. – I would like to reserve a Christmas Party Barrel.
• いつまでに予約すればいいですか？ Itsu made ni yoyaku sureba īdesu ka? – When do I need to make a reservation by?
• このパーティーバーレルは、何人分になりますか。 Kono pātībāreru wa, nan ninbun ni narimasu ka. – How many people is the Party Barrel for?
• チキンは、何ピース入っていますか。 Chikin wa, nan pīsu haitte imasu ka. – How many pieces of chicken are included?
• サイドメニューは選べますか？ Saidomenyū wa erabemasu ka? – Can I choose the side dishes?
• いつ取りに行けばいいですか。 Itsu-tori ni ikeba īdesu ka. – When can I do the pick up?

The Gift of Sweetness

Christmas cakes are a must-have treat in Japan, often featuring fluffy sponge cake, fresh cream, and colorful decorations. These cakes are usually decorated with whipped cream, strawberries, and chocolate! These cakes are enjoyed as a special dessert on Christmas Eve and are often pre-ordered weeks in advance.

Where To Reserve A Cake?

• Takashimaya
• Henri Charpentier
• Tokyu
• Seven-Eleven
• Rakuten

Useful Phrases When Reserve A Cake

• ケーキを予約したいのですが。Kēki o yoyaku shitai nodesuga. – I would like to reserve a cake.
• いつまでに予約すればいいですか？ Itsu made ni yoyaku sureba īdesu ka? – When do I need to make a reservation by?
• 何人分のケーキですか？ Nan ninbun no kēkidesu ka? – How many people is the cake for?
• どんな種類のケーキですか？ Don’na shurui no kēkidesu ka? – What kind of cake is it?
• デコレーションは、できますか。 Dekorēshon wa, dekimasu ka. – Can I add any decorations available?
• いつ取りに行けばいいですか。 Itsu-tori ni ikeba īdesu ka. – When can I do the pick up?

Additional Tips for Celebrating Christmas in Japan

• Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience. Coto is always here to help!
• Dress warmly, as the weather can be cold.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially at popular attractions.
• Consider purchasing a Suica or Pasmo card for convenient travel on public transportation.
• Enjoy the unique Christmas atmosphere and create lasting memories!

Christmas in Japan is a harmonious blend of tradition, innovation, and heartfelt celebration. From the dazzling lights of Tokyo to the serene winter illuminations in Kyoto, the Japanese have embraced the spirit of Christmas in their own unique way. Whether you’re captivated by the sparkling cityscapes or savoring the festive flavors, experiencing Christmas in Japan is a magical journey that leaves a lasting impression of joy and wonder.

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