Have you ever wondered how people in Japan celebrate Christmas or how to say Merry Christmas In Japanese? While Christmas isn’t as big a holiday in Japan as it is in other countries, they still have some fun traditions.
In this article, you will learn how to say Merry Christmas in Japanese, other common Christmas phrases, and some Christmas traditions in Japan.
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In conclusion, Christmas in Japan is unique and filled with fun traditions, even though it’s not a religious holiday. From the sparkling Christmas lights and romantic Christmas Eve to the special Christmas cake and KFC dinners, there’s a lot to enjoy.
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How To Say Merry Christmas In Japanese?
The most common way to say Merry Christmas in Japanese is メリークリスマス (Merī Kurisumasu). This phrase is a direct borrowing from the English "Merry Christmas," and it’s pronounced almost exactly the same. You’ll see it used in Japan for greetings, songs, and decorations during the holiday season.
For a slightly more formal or polite way to wish someone a Merry Christmas, you can say クリスマスおめでとう (Kurisumasu omedetou). This phrase is similar to saying "Congratulations on Christmas" and is often used in more formal or respectful contexts, like at work or when addressing someone you don’t know well.
Another variation is よいクリスマスを (Yoi Kurisumasu wo), which translates to "Have a good Christmas." This is a friendly and warm way to wish someone well during the holiday season, making it perfect for friends and family.
Christmas Vocabulary In Japanese
Here’s a table of commonly used Christmas phrases and related vocabulary in Japanese, with their English translations:
| Japanese | English Translation |
|---|---|
| メリークリスマス (Merī Kurisumasu) | Merry Christmas |
| クリスマスおめでとう (Kurisumasu omedetou) | Merry Christmas (formal) |
| よいクリスマスを (Yoi Kurisumasu wo) | Have a good Christmas |
| クリスマスイブ (Kurisumasu Ibu) | Christmas Eve |
| クリスマスツリー (Kurisumasu Tsurī) | Christmas Tree |
| クリスマスケーキ (Kurisumasu Kēki) | Christmas Cake |
| サンタクロース (Santa Kurōsu) | Santa Claus |
| プレゼント (Purezento) | Present/Gift |
| イルミネーション (Iruminēshon) | Illumination (Christmas Lights) |
| 雪 (Yuki) | Snow |
| ケンタッキー (Kentakkī) | KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) |
| チキン (Chikin) | Chicken |
| ローストチキン (Rōsuto Chikin) | Roast Chicken |
| チョコレート (Chokorēto) | Chocolate |
| ビール (Bīru) | Beer |
| ハッピーホリデー (Happī Horidē) | Happy Holidays |
| 冬 (Fuyu) | Winter |
| ノエル (Noeru) | Noel |
| 幸せ (Shiawase) | Happiness |
| 年末 (Nenmatsu) | End of the Year |
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Is Christmas Celebrated In Japan?
Yes, Christmas is celebrated in Japan, but in a unique way that differs from many Western countries. While Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, it has become a popular festive occasion, especially in urban areas.
How Is Christmas Celebrated In Japan?
1. Christmas Eve Dating
In Japan, Christmas Eve is considered a romantic holiday, much like Valentine's Day in other countries. Couples often spend this night together, enjoying special dinners, watching Christmas lights, or exchanging small gifts. It’s common for people to treat it as a time for celebrating love and spending quality time with their significant other.
2. Christmas Decorations
While Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, you’ll still see beautiful Christmas decorations in public spaces. Many cities, especially Tokyo, put up impressive light displays and Christmas illuminations. Shopping districts, hotels, and public parks are decorated with dazzling lights, making the season feel festive and special, even for those who don’t celebrate traditionally.
3. Christmas Dinner
Unlike many Western countries, where families gather for a large home-cooked meal, the Japanese have a unique tradition of eating KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) for Christmas dinner. This started in the 1970s with a successful marketing campaign by KFC, and now it’s a beloved tradition. People order buckets of fried chicken to enjoy on Christmas Eve, and it’s often seen as a treat for the holiday.
4. Christmas Cake
In Japan, Christmas cake is a popular tradition. It’s typically a light sponge cake covered in whipped cream and topped with fresh strawberries. This cake is usually enjoyed on Christmas Eve and is often shared with family or friends. It’s a symbol of the holiday season and a fun, festive treat.
5. Gift-Giving
While gift-giving is a part of Christmas in Japan, it’s not as grand as in many Western countries. Instead of exchanging large gifts, people often give small, thoughtful presents, like chocolates, accessories, or seasonal items. The focus is more on the gesture of kindness rather than the value of the gifts, and it’s a time for friends and family to show appreciation for each other.
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Is Japan Good To Visit At Christmas?
Yes, Japan is a great destination to visit at Christmas, although the way it is celebrated is different from Western traditions. Here's why you might want to consider visiting Japan during the Christmas season:
1. Unique Christmas Atmosphere
While Christmas in Japan is not a religious holiday, it is still widely celebrated with festive decorations, lights, and events. Major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are beautifully illuminated with Christmas lights and illuminations that create a magical atmosphere. Visiting during this time gives you the opportunity to see the cities in a different, vibrant light.
2. Romantic Vibe
Christmas Eve is considered a romantic holiday in Japan, similar to Valentine’s Day in the West. Couples often go out for special dinners, visit Christmas markets, or enjoy Christmas illuminations together. If you’re traveling with a partner, it’s a great time to enjoy the romantic atmosphere.
3. Christmas Markets and Events
While Christmas is not as deeply rooted in Japanese culture, many places still host Christmas markets, festive concerts, and other events. These are great for experiencing the Christmas spirit, buying unique holiday goods, and tasting Christmas-themed treats.
4. Delicious Christmas Foods
One of the most interesting aspects of Christmas in Japan is the tradition of eating KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken) on Christmas day. It’s part of a unique marketing campaign that turned fried chicken into a holiday tradition. You can also enjoy the famous Christmas cake, a light sponge cake topped with whipped cream and strawberries, which is a favorite holiday treat in Japan.
5. Winter Wonderland in Hokkaido
If you're a fan of winter sports or just enjoy snowy landscapes, Hokkaido in northern Japan is ideal during Christmas. The region is known for its beautiful snowy landscapes, ski resorts, and hot springs. It's the perfect destination if you're looking to experience a winter wonderland.
6. Great Shopping and Sales
Christmas is followed by the New Year’s sales, one of the best times to shop in Japan. Whether you’re looking for traditional souvenirs or the latest fashion, you'll find fantastic deals in major shopping districts like Shibuya, Shinjuku, and Ginza.
7. Non-Crowded Tourist Spots
Although Christmas lights and events are popular, Japan doesn’t experience the same massive holiday crowds that many Western countries do. You can explore major attractions, such as temples, shrines, and historical sites, without the usual holiday chaos.
8. Cultural Experience
Even though Christmas is not a religious holiday, you’ll still encounter beautiful decorations, festive music, and traditions like exchanging small gifts. You can also visit churches or attend Christmas Eve services if you’re interested in experiencing how Christianity is practiced in Japan.
