Japanese Christmas culture

Many of you have asked me what Christmas is like in Japan. Well, sadly Christmas in Japan is probably even more consumeristic than it is in the states. Japanese people are really interested in knowing about American Christmas traditions, so it 's a good opportunity to tell them the true meaning.

One of the unique ways that Japan celebrates Christmas is with a Christmas Cake. They would be shocked to know that this isn't an American tradition! The cake is usually a sponge cake with white icing and strawberries. Bakeries stock up on this cake and families will gobble it up on Christmas Eve. I've read that the price goes down considerably on the 25th, and what is leftover after that is considered old and I imagine is tossed out. A cultural note I learned today. Unmarried women are referred to as unsold and outdated Christmas cakes.... ergh!

Another Japanese Christmas custom has to do with Kentucky Fried Chicken! I took this picture of Colonel Sanders (who looks a bit Japanese, by the way) wearing a Santa costume. There's a really cute commercial on TV right now for KFC with a little girl and her Snoopy cup and plate that's available now for the Christmas season. People can make reservations with KFC for the Christmas Chicken Dinner, and I've heard that people line up to pick up their chicken like they were waiting for the final Harry Potter book!

The focus at this time of year is actually more on the New Year. It's probably one of the biggest holidays for the Japanese. Gifts are given to bosses, customers and teachers to show appreciation. Actually, many Japanese would say that this is an obligation and passing on it would be certain public disgrace. The stores have special ordering stations, where you can choose a box of apples or a box of beer (or pretty much anything that can be boxed up) to be sent to the person. It's really convenient because they wrap it and send it for you. It saves a lot of time and work. Children receive a special gift of money from parents and other relatives. Greeting cards are sent to relatives, friends, business acquaintances (just like our Christmas cards).