Japan Festivals - December

Major December Festivals in Japan

December in Japan is marked by several significant festivals that offer unique cultural experiences. One of the most renowned events is the Chichibu Yomatsuri, or Chichibu Night Festival, held annually on December 2nd and 3rd in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture. This grand night-time celebration, dating back three centuries, is considered one of Japan's three most famous float festivals and has been recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. The festival features lavishly decorated floats weighing over 10 tons, which are pulled through the town amidst a spectacular display of fireworks. The second night marks the climax, with huge multi-story floats carried up Danshi-zaka (Men's Slope), accompanied by musical troupes and illuminated by fireworks against the cold, dark night sky.

Another notable festival is the Kasuga Wakamiya Festival held on December 17th at Kasuga Taisha in Nara. This event, observed annually since 1136, offers a rare opportunity to witness traditional dances. The festival begins with a two-hour procession through central Nara, followed by about seven hours of dances at the shrine. In Tokyo, the Gishisai Festival takes place on December 14th at Sengakuji Temple, commemorating the legendary 47 ronin. This solemn event features a parade of actors dressed as the loyal samurai, honoring their story of sacrifice and loyalty.

Winter Illuminations and Light-up Events

December transforms Japan into a dazzling wonderland of lights, with cities across the country hosting spectacular illumination displays. In Tokyo, the Marunouchi Illumination is a highlight, featuring around 360 trees along Nakadori Street lit up with approximately 1.2 million champagne-colored LED bulbs. The display typically runs from mid-November to mid-February, creating a magical atmosphere in this prominent business district.

Kyoto, known for its traditional charm, also embraces the winter illumination trend. The Arashiyama Festival of Lights in December illuminates the famous bamboo forest and Tenryu-ji Temple, creating a mystical and captivating atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the Hozu River to admire the lights reflected in the water.

In Osaka, the Osaka Hikari Renaissance from December 14th to 25th transforms Nakanoshima Island into a spectacular light display. Several historic buildings are illuminated with creative displays, and the event features various art installations and food vendors, creating a festive atmosphere.

Christmas Celebrations in Japan

While Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, it has become a popular celebration, particularly among young people. The Japanese have developed their own unique Christmas traditions. One of the most surprising to foreigners is the popularity of Kentucky Fried Chicken for Christmas dinner. This tradition began in the 1970s and has become so ingrained that an estimated 3.6 million Japanese families enjoy KFC on Christmas Day.

Christmas Eve in Japan is considered a romantic day for couples, similar to Valentine's Day in Western countries. Couples often exchange gifts and enjoy special dinners at restaurants, which tend to be fully booked on this day. Cities are adorned with Christmas decorations and illuminations, creating a festive atmosphere.

Many cities host Christmas markets inspired by European traditions. For instance, the Tokyo Christmas Marketat Hibiya Park, sponsored by the German Tourism Association and the German Embassy, offers everything from tree ornaments to mulled wine. These markets provide a taste of Western Christmas traditions in a Japanese setting.

New Year's Eve Traditions and Festivities

New Year's Eve, known as Ōmisoka in Japan, is one of the most important days of the year. It's a time for family gatherings and traditional customs. One significant tradition is Joya no Kane, where Buddhist temples ring their bells 108 times at midnight. This ritual is believed to cleanse the 108 worldly desires in Buddhist belief.

Many Japanese people participate in Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the New Year. Popular shrines like Meiji Jingu in Tokyo and Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto attract millions of visitors in the first few days of January. People pray for good fortune and purchase omamori (lucky charms) for the coming year.

Another unique New Year's Eve tradition is eating Toshikoshi Soba, or year-crossing noodles. These long buckwheat noodles symbolize a long and prosperous life. Families often gather to watch special New Year's Eve television programs, such as Kohaku Uta Gassen, a popular music show.

Winter Sports and Snow Festivals

While major snow festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival typically occur in February, December marks the beginning of the winter sports season in Japan. Many ski resorts open in early December, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Popular destinations include Niseko in Hokkaido and Hakuba in Nagano Prefecture.

The Zao Juhyo Festival in Yamagata Prefecture, which usually starts in late December, celebrates the unique "snow monsters" or ice-covered trees that form on Mount Zao. Visitors can enjoy illuminated night views of these spectacular natural formations.

In Hokkaido, the winter season brings opportunities for unique experiences like ice fishing for smelt and viewing natural phenomena such as drift ice. While not strictly a festival, these winter activities attract many visitors to Japan's northernmost island.

Traditional Customs and Rituals in December

December in Japan is rich with traditional customs, many of which are related to preparing for the New Year. One important tradition is Oosouji, or "big cleaning," where Japanese people thoroughly clean their homes to welcome the new year with a fresh start. This custom is believed to purify the living space and invite good fortune.

The Toji or winter solstice, usually falling on December 21st or 22nd, is marked by various customs. Many people take yuzu baths, where yuzu citrus fruits are floated in hot water, believed to ward off colds and bring good fortune. Eating kabocha squash on this day is also a tradition, thought to protect against illness during winter.

Towards the end of the month, many businesses and homes start displaying traditional New Year decorations. These include kadomatsu (gate pines), shimekazari (sacred rope decorations), and kagami mochi (round rice cakes). These decorations are believed to welcome ancestral spirits and deities who bring good luck for the new year.

Regional December Events Across Japan

Various regions in Japan host unique December events that showcase local traditions and culture. In Nara, the Kasuga Wakamiya On-matsuri is a significant festival featuring traditional court music, dance, and horseback archery. This event, with over 800 years of history, attracts many visitors to the ancient capital.

In Kyoto, the Shimai Kobo market at Toji Temple on December 21st is a popular year-end event. This lively market features over 1,000 stalls selling everything from antiques to New Year's decorations. Similarly, the Shimai Tenjin market at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine on December 25th offers a festive atmosphere with various goods and foods.

In Osaka, the Toka Ebisu Festival at Imamiya Ebisu Shrine, while mainly held in January, begins its preparations in late December. This lively festival is dedicated to Ebisu, the god of business prosperity, and attracts many merchants and business owners seeking good fortune for the coming year.

These regional events, along with the major festivals and illuminations, make December a vibrant and culturally rich time to experience Japan. Whether you're interested in traditional customs, modern celebrations, or simply enjoying the winter atmosphere, Japan in December offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors.