Christmas in Hiroshima

Nov 29, 2022

Christmas in Hiroshima

Expats in Hiroshima can get into the festive spirit in the city as Christmas approaches. Although it’s not an official public holiday in Japan, the locals acknowledge Christmas with festive events and activities for all to join. Here’s what to expect.

Christmas in Japan

Japan has its own unique way of acknowledging Christmas, and it’s 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 we reach New Year. Expats celebrating Christmas can find a few 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, while 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 that you can see on streets and in parks and shopping malls as everything becomes wonderfully colorful and festive. Each display lasts for a different period 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 1.5 million lights adorn the whole Peace Boulevard area, and locals can come and enjoy the displays for free. The 2022 event runs from November 17th to January 3rd and has a Fairyland theme. Other popular Hiroshima illuminations include the Botanical Garden Illuminations, usually the most Christmassy, and the spectacular display at Bihoku Hillside Park in Shobara.

Christmas Markets and Events

You can now find German-style Christmas markets in many parts of the world during December, and Japan is no different. They typically consist of multiple stalls selling German food and drink, such as smoked sausages, sauerkraut, and mulled wine, as well as a few stalls selling gifts. They also expect to see a giant Christmas tree, festive decorations, German music, and kids’ activities. The Hiroshima Christmas Market takes place outside the Urban View Grand Tower from December 16th to 18th and is an attempt to bring a bit of European-style cheer to the city.

Another of the city’s popular festive markers is the Christmas Tram, a decorated tram that the Hiroden transport company runs through the city center in the run-up to Christmas each year. Those looking for church services can head to the Memorial Cathedral for World Peace in Nobori-cho, which holds Mass in English and Japanese on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

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. Suppose you’re after something a little more traditional in Hiroshima. In that case, you can 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.

Christmas Supplies

To create a Christmas atmosphere and enjoy the season in your own home, there are a few suppliers you can reach out to. The Meat Guy or Horizon Farms – Organic can sort you out with all 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