7 Unique Japanese Christmas Foods You Need To Try

Christmas is a time for celebration and feasting with loved ones, and Japan has its own unique twist on traditional holiday cuisine. While Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, it has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among young people. As a result, many Japanese restaurants and households have created their own special Christmas dishes, blending traditional Japanese flavors with Western-style holiday fare.

In this article, we'll explore 7 unique Japanese Christmas foods you need to try. From savory to sweet, these dishes are sure to add a touch of Japanese flair to your holiday celebrations.

1. Christmas KFC: A Japanese Holiday Tradition

In Japan, Christmas is often celebrated with a visit to KFC, yes, you read that right! Kentucky Fried Chicken is a popular holiday tradition in Japan, with many people ordering special Christmas-themed meals, complete with a festive bucket of fried chicken. This tradition is said to have started in the 1970s, when KFC launched a successful marketing campaign that associated fried chicken with Christmas. Today, it's a beloved holiday tradition in Japan.

Why is KFC so popular in Japan during Christmas?

There are a few theories as to why KFC became a Christmas staple in Japan. One reason is that during the post-war period, American-style fried chicken was seen as a luxurious and exotic treat. Another theory is that the Japanese company behind KFC's Japanese operations, Mitsubishi, launched a successful marketing campaign that associated fried chicken with Christmas.

2. Strawberry Shortcake: A Japanese Christmas Dessert

Strawberry shortcake is a popular Christmas dessert in Japan, typically made with fresh strawberries, shortcake, and whipped cream. This dessert is often served at Christmas parties and gatherings, and is a favorite among both children and adults.

Why is strawberry shortcake a popular Christmas dessert in Japan?

Strawberry shortcake is a popular Christmas dessert in Japan due to its sweetness and festivity. The combination of fresh strawberries and whipped cream is a classic Japanese dessert combination, and the shortcake adds a nice textural element.

3. Christmas Cake: A Japanese Holiday Tradition

Christmas cake is a traditional Japanese holiday dessert, typically made with a sponge cake, buttercream frosting, and decorated with festive holly sprigs and red berries. This cake is often served at Christmas parties and gatherings, and is a favorite among both children and adults.

Why is Christmas cake a popular holiday dessert in Japan?

Christmas cake is a popular holiday dessert in Japan due to its sweetness and festivity. The combination of sponge cake and buttercream frosting is a classic Japanese dessert combination, and the festive decorations add a nice touch to the holiday celebrations.

4. Sushi Christmas Tree: A Unique Japanese Holiday Dish

For a unique and Instagram-worthy holiday dish, try making a sushi Christmas tree! This dish is made with sushi rice, nori seaweed, and various fillings, such as salmon or tuna, arranged to resemble a mini Christmas tree.

Why is sushi Christmas tree a popular holiday dish in Japan?

Sushi Christmas tree is a popular holiday dish in Japan due to its creativity and festivity. This dish is a fun and unique way to enjoy sushi during the holiday season, and the presentation makes for a great Instagram post.

5. Japanese Christmas Cookies: A Sweet Holiday Treat

Japanese Christmas cookies are a sweet holiday treat that combines traditional Japanese flavors with Western-style Christmas cookies. These cookies are often made with ingredients such as matcha, sesame seeds, and yuzu, giving them a unique and delicious flavor.

Why are Japanese Christmas cookies a popular holiday treat?

Japanese Christmas cookies are a popular holiday treat due to their unique flavor combinations and adorable presentation. These cookies make for a great gift or snack during the holiday season.

6. Tonkatsu Christmas: A Japanese Holiday Twist on a Classic Dish

Tonkatsu is a popular Japanese dish made with breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet. During Christmas, some Japanese restaurants offer a special Tonkatsu Christmas dish, complete with a festive Christmas-themed plate and decorations.

Why is Tonkatsu Christmas a popular holiday dish in Japan?

Tonkatsu Christmas is a popular holiday dish in Japan due to its unique twist on a classic Japanese dish. This dish is a fun and festive way to enjoy Tonkatsu during the holiday season.

7. Yule Log Cake: A Japanese Holiday Dessert

Yule log cake is a traditional Japanese holiday dessert made with genoise or sponge cake, buttercream frosting, and decorated to resemble a mini log. This cake is often served at Christmas parties and gatherings, and is a favorite among both children and adults.

Why is Yule log cake a popular holiday dessert in Japan?

Yule log cake is a popular holiday dessert in Japan due to its unique presentation and delicious flavor. This cake is a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season.

We hope you've enjoyed this article on unique Japanese Christmas foods! Whether you're looking to try something new and exciting or just want to add a touch of Japanese flair to your holiday celebrations, these dishes are sure to impress.

Don't forget to share your own favorite Japanese Christmas foods with us in the comments below! And if you're feeling adventurous, try making one of these dishes for your next holiday gathering.