Japan‘s Peculiar Christmas
Although Christmas is a holy day in many parts of the world, Japan celebrates Christmas in a completely different way. For most Japanese, Christmas is not about the Christian traditions but rather a romantic occasion. The festive atmosphere gives couples an opportunity to relax and connect with each other amidst Japan’s fast-paced work culture.
Restaurants and shopping centers welcome the season with special dinner packages, discounts on gifts, and elaborate light displays. According to Roy Starrs, associate professor of Japanese studies at the University of Otago, the holiday is all about creating a romantic and aesthetically pleasing environment.
“Young couples often go on evening dates to view the dazzling illuminations, which set the perfect atmosphere for love,” Starrs explains.
Despite being a primarily Shinto society, Christmas has been embraced in Japan as a pop-cultural event replete with Santa Claus dolls, Christmas markets, decorative lights, and cakes. The aesthetic emphasis flows well with the season‘s snowy landscapes, making it a beautiful holiday experience.
The Global Spirit of Christmas
Meanwhile, in Vatican City, Pope Francis attended a solemn Christmas Eve Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica as he marked his 12th Christmas as-pontiff. It also launched the 2025 Catholic Holy Year, which it is expected to draw in 32 million pilgrims to Rome.
It is in this context that the whole world, on Christmas Day, reflected on its core messages of love, peace, and hope. It inspires generations and helps people bridge cultural and spiritual boundaries as they celebrate their own unique ways of celebrating the holiday.
