Christmas in Japan looks very different from what many of us know in the West. Instead of nativity scenes, candlelight services or the reading of Luke 2, the season here is largely commercial and focused on romance, decorations and food. In fact, one of the most famous Christmas traditions in Japan is eating Kentucky Fried Chicken! This tradition began in the 1970s, when KFC launched a holiday campaign featuring Colonel Harland Sanders dressed as Santa Claus. The idea caught on, and now many families order buckets of chicken weeks in advance to enjoy on Christmas Eve. For many Japanese people, this meal is the highlight of the holiday.

Yet behind the lights, fried chicken and Santa suits, God sending His Son into the world is still unknown to many. While the Japanese people celebrate with joy and family gatherings, they rarely hear about the birth of Jesus.

This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for missionaries. The season naturally stirs curiosity about Christmas, even if the traditions are unconventional. By gently sharing the story of Jesus’ birth, we can bridge the cultural celebration with the gospel message. A conversation might begin with fried chicken and Santa Claus, but it can lead to explaining the greatest gift God has given: salvation through Christ.

In Japan, Christmas may not be about Christ, but we pray it will not remain that way for long. As missionaries, we seek to use every opportunity, including holidays, to shine the light of Jesus. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will open hearts this season, so that many Japanese people will come to know the Savior who brings eternal hope and peace.

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