Merī Kurisumasu… American-Style!
Ready to experience Japan’s intriguing Christmas culture without hopping on a plane? Grab some fairy lights, prep that bucket of fried chicken, and recreate a Japanese-style Christmas in your American hometown. Here’s a playful step-by-step guide to getting festive the Japanese way.
Embrace the Romantic Spirit of Christmas
In Japan, December 25th is not a public holiday. Instead, it’s considered a more romantic time—think Valentine’s Day meets twinkling lights. Couples venture out to admire breathtaking illuminations, share sweet desserts, and exchange little tokens of affection. So, to capture this vibe in the States, plan a cozy date night with your special someone. Lights are low, candles are lit, and maybe a holiday rom-com is on TV. Voila—instant romance!
Other Unique Christmas Traditions in Japan
Christmas Eve Date Night: December 24th is often the main event if you're celebrating with a partner. Couples typically exchange gifts, dine out, and enjoy the city lights.
Christmas Cake: A fluffy sponge cake topped with whipped cream and strawberries is a holiday staple. Some families even line up at bakeries to grab the best one.
KFC, Anyone?
You’ve heard the rumors: fried chicken is the Christmas meal in Japan. But how did this wacky tradition start? In the 1970s, Kentucky Fried Chicken ran a wildly successful holiday marketing campaign with the slogan, “Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii!” (Kentucky for Christmas!). It caught on like wildfire, and to this day, many families in Japan pre-order their KFC buckets weeks in advance to ensure they get their crispy fix on Christmas Day.
Recreate the Magic Stateside
Order Early: This tradition is so prevalent in Japan that lines wrap around the block on Christmas. Beat the rush by ordering your bucket in advance.
Dress It Up: Make it memorable! Break out the holiday plates, decorate your table, and serve up all the sides—mashed potatoes, biscuits, gravy, the works.
Create Your Own Winter Illumination
No ticket to Tokyo or Osaka? No problem! Japan’s winter illuminations are legendary, with entire streets, parks, and shopping districts glowing in intricate light displays. Here’s how to get that same “wow” factor at home:
Check Out Local Lights: Scope your neighborhood or nearby gardens for holiday light shows. Stroll through them like a tourist in a new city!
DIY Sparkle: Light up your yard or porch with colored bulbs. The more, the merrier—think big, bold, and bright.
Sing Your Heart Out: J-Pop Karaoke
Karaoke is synonymous with a night out in Japan, so why not fire up a home karaoke machine or use an online karaoke app for a fun holiday twist? Throw in some J-Pop hits for an authentic feel:
Popular J-Pop Tracks for Holiday Karaoke
“Heavy Rotation” by AKB48 is upbeat, fun, and sure to get everyone singing.
“Happiness” by Arashi – A feel-good classic to lift the holiday spirit.
“Yoru ni Kakeru” by YOASOBI is one of Japan's most significant recent hits, perfect for showing off your vocal chops.
“Lemon” by Kenshi Yonezu is emotional, melodic, and great for serenading the crowd.
Mix some holiday tunes (Mariah Carey, anyone?) to keep the festive cheer between J-Pop tracks!
Save Room for Something Sweet
While ichigo shortcake (strawberry shortcake) reigns supreme in Japan, you can add your American twist. Layer on whipped cream, pile on fresh berries, or go utterly off-script with a festive spin on your favorite dessert. The key is something light, sweet, and oh-so-photogenic.
Make It Your Own
Exchange Little Gifts: Presents in Japan are often small and heartfelt rather than extravagant. Write a loving note, wrap up a tiny trinket, and enjoy seeing someone’s face light up.
Spread Cheer on Social: Snap pics of your homemade “illumination,” your KFC feast, or you and your loved ones belting out J-Pop classics. Post them with a spirited caption—everyone will want to join in on the fun.
Merī Kurisumasu (メリークリスマス)!
Wrap up your uniquely Japanese-American Christmas celebration with one final flourish: a cheerful “Merī Kurisumasu!” Whether it’s a bucket of fried chicken, a city stroll under glimmering lights, or a late-night karaoke session, you’ll have captured the essence of Japan’s cozy, romantic, and delightfully quirky approach to Christmas—right here at home.
Happy celebrating! May your holiday be filled with light, laughter, and enough crispy fried chicken. Enjoy your cultural mashup, and have a wonderful Merī Kurisumasu!
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