Christmas in Hiroshima

Nov 29, 2024

Christmas in Hiroshima

With Christmas approaching, it’s time for expats in Hiroshima to get into the festive spirit. Although it’s not an official public holiday in Japan, locals do acknowledge Christmas, holding festive events and organizing activities for all to join.

Christmas in Japan

Japan has a unique way of acknowledging Christmas. This holiday has become a more prominent part of the calendar – with a slightly more western tinge – as its expat population has grown. Christmas is typically celebrated across December, but festivities stop on Christmas Day and switch towards a more party atmosphere as New Year approaches.

Expats celebrating Christmas will be able to find several events, places to enjoy a nice meal, and stores selling the usual supplies alongside the Japanese Christmas cake (kurisumasu keki). Family gatherings tend to take place in the week between Christmas and New Year, whereas Christmas Eve is considered a romantic time when many couples go out for a dinner date in the evening.

Christmas Illuminations

One thing Japan does well at Christmas is its fantastic lighting displays. You’ll see these on streets and in parks and shopping malls, with everything becoming colorful and festive. Each display lasts for a different amount of time and has a few standalone events.

The most prominent display in Hiroshima is Dreamination, which started in 2002 and usually runs from mid-November to the start of January. Around 1.4 million lights adorn the whole Peace Boulevard area. Locals can come and enjoy the displays for free. The 2024 event will run from November 15th to January 3rd with the theme of fairytale land. The event begins with an opening ceremony at 6:00 p.m., after which the lights are on every day from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Another popular Hiroshima illumination is the Botanical Garden Illuminations, which are usually the most Christmassy illuminations of the city. The event is called the annual Pageant of Flower and Light. It takes place on every Saturday from the end of November until Christmas. In addition to the giant Christmas tree candle and 11-meter-tall bamboo Christmas tree, there’s a giant Mount Fuji tableau and illuminated dinosaurs. The event also has live music. Admission costs 510 yen for adults, with the last entry at 7:30 p.m.

Lastly, there’s the spectacular display at Bihoku Hillside Park in Shobara. This is another event that only takes place on Saturdays, but it runs from December to January. The entrance fee is 450 yen for adults, with the last admission at 9:00 p.m.

Christmas Markets and Events

You can now find German-style Christmas markets in many parts of the world during December – and Japan is no exception. These markets typically consist of stalls selling German food and drinks, such as smoked sausages, sauerkraut, and mulled wine, as well as a few stalls selling gifts. Also expect to see a giant Christmas tree, festive decorations, German music, and kids’ activities.

The Hiroshima Christmas Market will be taking place outside the Urban View Grand Tower from December 20 to 22 at 12:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the first two days and until 7:00 p.m. on the last day. It’s an attempt to bring a bit of European-style cheer to the city. Admission is free, giving you access to all the booths and the chance to hear live music.

Another of the city’s popular festive events is the Christmas Tram – a tram decorated inside and out that the Hiroden transport company runs through the city center starting mid-December and continuing until Christmas Eve.
Lastly, those looking for church services should head to the Memorial Cathedral for World Peace in Nobori-cho, which holds Mass in English and Japanese on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This is the perfect place to experience Christmas Mass because the cathedral was built in memory of the victims of the atomic bomb and WWII in general. It is now considered a place to pray for world peace.

Christmas Dining

Believe it or not, the most common restaurant for people in Japan to head to at Christmas is KFC. The fast-food fried chicken chain offers a Christmas menu, including festive treats and discounts on standard meals. Expect to see families filling outlets and exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve.

In the case you’re after something a little more traditional in Hiroshima, head to your favorite expat bar. Molly Malone’s usually offers a slap-up turkey and ham feast on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Another good option is the Sheraton Grand Hotel in the Higashi ward, where diners can usually choose turkey, smoked salmon, or crab with all the trimmings. The hotel also specializes in Christmas cakes of various types, which it offers from mid-October to Christmas Eve.

Christmas Supplies

To create a Christmas atmosphere and enjoy the season in your own home, there are a few suppliers you could reach out to. The Meat Guy or Horizon Farms – Organic will sort you out with everything you need for a fabulous Christmas meal, including a festive selection of meats, vegetables, and fruits. For other supplies (including Christmas trees and festive decorations) give Costco or Shimo Jima a try.

Lance Cpl. Aaron Henson, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons