Christmas in Japan became popular at the beginning of the 20th century and is mainly celebrated in cities. They celebrate it as a purely secular holiday devoted to the love of their children. The Japanese became acquainted with the holiday because of the Christmas products they made for other countries. Though most Japanese people enthusiastically celebrate Christmas, they celebrate very less of the religious aspects associated with the occasion. The Japanese Christians (who are less than 1% of the population), however, celebrate the religious aspects.

Many western customs for Christmas have been adopted by the Japanese. In some homes Christmas carols are sung. Gifts are exchanged on Christmas Day and in some places there are community trees. Christmas decorations in Japan are a popular sight. Tinsel and lights are hung in homes, dance halls, cafes and pin ball parlors. Trees like mistletoe are decorated with small toys, dolls, paper ornaments, gold paper fans and lanterns, wind chimes and small candles. One of the most popular ornaments is the origami swan.

Children have traded thousands of paper birds of peace with young people to show that war will not happen. Many of the people take time to do special things for others. Hospitals are decorated with trees to lift the spirits of the sick. Children sing carols or put on plays about the birth of Jesus for the sick.

Japanese children call Santa "Santa Kurohsu" and he is believed to have eyes in the back of his head so he can watch the children all year long. In Japan there is a priest known as "Hoteiosho", who closely relates to Santa Claus. He is thought to be an old man who carries a huge sack.

Christmas in Japan was introduced by the Christian missionaries and for many years the only people who celebrated were the ones who turned to the Christian faith. But now Christmas in Japan is full of meaning. The Japanese like the idea of exchanging gifts. For a few weeks before the day, stores are decorated and a display is put out, just as our western shops have done.

The story of Jesus born in a manager is interesting to little girls of Japan, for they love anything about babies. In the scene of the Nativity, they become familiar with cradles, for Japanese babies never sleep in cradles.

Turkey is usually not eaten here. In fact, it is hard to find. Chicken (especially Kentucky Fried Chicken) is the food of choice.

Christmas has a different appeal for the Japanese adults. It is looked at as a romantic holiday for couples. You will see a lot of "Christmas Love" cards, CD's, etc. during this season. December 24 is actually the "night for romance" in Japan.

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