"Discover Christmas in Tokyo | Festive Tips by TokyoMove"
As we dive into the heart of December, Tokyo transforms into a vibrant tapestry of winter festivities, cultural traditions, and unique experiences. In our latest blogpost episode , we explored the nuances of traveling in Japan during this enchanting season. Here, we’ll delve deeper into three key takeaways that emerged from our discussion, offering insights that will enhance your travel experience in Tokyo.
1. Embrace the Winter Weather: Dress Appropriately
One of the first things we discussing here was the significant change in weather as Tokyo transitions into winter. After a surprisingly warm November, the chill of December is finally settling in. For travelers coming from warmer climates, this shift can be quite a shock.
Dressing for the Cold
When planning your trip, it’s crucial to pack appropriately. Here are some essential items to consider:
Warm Inner Layers: Start with thermal or woolen inner layers to keep your body heat intact. Layering is key in Japan, as indoor heating can make places feel much warmer than the outside temperature.
Jackets and Coats: A good quality winter jacket is a must. Opt for something that is both stylish and functional, as you’ll want to blend in with the fashionable locals while staying warm.
Winter Boots: If you plan to explore areas with snow, such as Sapporo or the mountainous regions, invest in a pair of winter boots. These will not only keep your feet warm but also provide traction to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.
Check uniqlo for affordable winter selection.
If you find yourself unprepared, don’t worry! Japan has a plethora of shopping options, including popular stores like Uniqlo, where you can find affordable winter clothing. This is a great opportunity to update your wardrobe while experiencing the local shopping culture.
The Joy of Winter in Tokyo
Check Omotesando for the Lighting Venue , valid until 4th January.
Winter in Tokyo is not just about the cold; it’s also about the beauty that comes with it. The city is adorned with stunning illuminations and festive decorations that create a magical atmosphere. As you stroll through neighborhoods like Shibuya and Ginza, you’ll be captivated by the twinkling lights and holiday displays.
2. Experience Unique Holiday Traditions
We highlighted how Japan’s approach to the holiday season differs significantly from Western traditions. While Christmas is celebrated, it is more of a commercial festival rather than a religious observance. This unique perspective offers travelers a chance to experience the holiday season in a new light.
The Christmas Season in Japan
From early December, Tokyo is transformed into a winter wonderland. The streets are lined with beautiful illuminations, and shop windows are decorated with festive displays. While many Western countries focus on family gatherings and religious ceremonies, in Japan, Christmas is often celebrated with friends or as a romantic occasion.
Food Traditions: One of the most interesting aspects of Christmas in Japan is the food. Instead of the traditional turkey or ham, many Japanese people enjoy eating fried chicken or indulging in a special Christmas cake. It’s common to see families ordering KFC for Christmas dinner, a tradition that began in the 1970s and has since become a cultural phenomenon.
KFC has become an unexpected Christmas tradition for many families across the United States and beyond. Originally popularized in Japan, where it is widely celebrated as a festive meal, the practice of enjoying Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas has made its way into various cultures.
For numerous households, the allure of convenience plays a significant role. Preparing a large Christmas feast can be a daunting task, and KFC offers a way to simplify the holiday hustle. Families often find joy in unwrapping boxes of flavorful fried chicken, complete with sides of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits. This laid-back approach to the holiday meal provides a
KFC has become an unexpected Christmas tradition for many families across the United States and beyond. Originally popularized in Japan, where it is widely celebrated as a festive meal, the practice of enjoying Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas has made its way into various cultures.
For numerous households, the allure of convenience plays a significant role. Preparing a large Christmas feast can be a daunting task, and KFC offers a way to simplify the holiday hustle. Families often find joy in unwrapping boxes of flavorful fried chicken, complete with sides of mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits. This laid-back approach to the holiday meal provides a break from xmas tradition in Japan.
Shopping and Celebrations: The holiday season is also a prime time for shopping. Many stores offer special promotions and limited-edition products, making it an excellent opportunity to pick up unique gifts. The festive atmosphere is palpable, with street performers and holiday markets adding to the excitement.
Japan Guide has a lot of informations about this.
Mitsukoshi , Nihonbashi.
Transitioning to New Year’s Preparations
After Christmas, the focus in Japan shifts dramatically to New Year’s preparations. From December 26th onward, the festive atmosphere transforms as people begin to prepare for the New Year. This period is marked by a flurry of activity as families shop for traditional New Year’s foods, known as osechi, which are beautifully arranged and symbolize good fortune for the coming year.
Kodamatsu in Tokyo
Kadomatsu Decorations: One of the most important traditions is the display of Kadomatsu, a traditional Japanese decoration made of pine, bamboo, and plum branches. These are placed at the entrances of homes and businesses to welcome ancestral spirits and bring good luck for the New Year.
Shopping Frenzy: The days leading up to New Year’s are filled with shopping as people stock up on osechi and other festive foods. The atmosphere in the city is electric, with bustling markets and stores filled with eager shoppers.
3. New Year’s Celebrations: A Unique Experience
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day are celebrated in Japan, which is quite different from the countdown parties and fireworks common in many Western countries.
A Different Kind of Countdown
In Japan, the transition into the New Year is marked by a more subdued yet meaningful celebration. Instead of parties, many people visit shrines and temples to pray for good fortune in the coming year.
Visiting Shrines: Popular shrines like Meiji Shrine and Sensoji Temple become bustling hubs of activity as people gather to participate in the first shrine visit of the year, known as hatsumode. This tradition involves offering prayers, purchasing charms, and enjoying traditional foods sold at stalls nearby.
The Temple Bell: At midnight, many temples ring their bells 108 times, symbolizing the 108 human desires in Buddhist belief. This ritual is a way to cleanse oneself of these desires and start the New Year fresh.
Temple
Temple Bell
The Lucky Bag Tradition
Lucky Bag tradition
Another fascinating aspect of New Year’s in Japan is the tradition of Fukubukuro, or “lucky bags.” These bags are sold at various stores starting on January 1st or 2nd and contain a surprise assortment of items.
Shopping for Surprises: The contents of these bags are often worth much more than the price paid, making them a popular item among shoppers. Some people even line up overnight to secure their favorite brand’s lucky bag, adding an element of excitement to the New Year shopping experience.
Exploring Different Stores: Major department stores like Isetan and Takashimaya typically open on January 2nd, offering a wide range of lucky bags. If you’re not particular about a specific brand, wandering through different stores to discover random lucky bags can be a fun adventure.
Conclusion: A Winter Wonderland Awaits
As we wrapped here it became clear that visiting Tokyo during the winter months offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, festive celebrations, and beautiful sights. From dressing appropriately for the cold to embracing the holiday traditions and participating in New Year’s celebrations, there’s so much to explore and enjoy.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, December in Tokyo is a time of wonder and excitement. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a destination like no other. So, bundle up, immerse yourself in the festivities, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in the heart of Japan!
We hope you enjoyed this blogpost , Stay tuned for more insights and travel tips as we continue to explore the beauty and culture of Japan!
