Celebrating Christmas in Japan is decidedly different from the usual Western family gatherings, roasted birds and hymns in the church on Christmas Day—although you'll grow just as tired of gaudy shop decorations here as anywhere else, not to mention fighting off other shoppers during the last-minute present hunt.
  For a start, the festivities culminate on the Eve itself, usually with fried chicken—a certain fast-food chain from Kentucky normally gets frantically busy at this time of year—and a big, fluffy "Christmas Cake," decorated with fresh strawberries and cream.
  Moreover, as less than 1% of the population is Christian, the holiday's religious roots do not go very deep. Instead, Christmas is mostly a commercial event, with Christmas Day being a regular school or working day. Santa faces appear everywhere in stores, TV adverts, magazines and trains, blaring out messages about exclusive hotels and restaurants on Christmas Eve (be sure to book well in advance), deluxe presents, dinner parties and other expensive fare.
  For dating couples, who usually spend the time together at fancy restaurants or hotels, Christmas Eve is one of the year's major romantic highpoints, rivaling Valentine's day. Where the evening is spent and what presents are given is very important. Luxury brand and jewelry shops tend to be flooded with distressed boyfriends in late December.
  Families with children celebrate at home. Although the Japanese love giving presents, only the children receive them during the Christmas family gatherings, as it is said that only Santa gives presents, and then only to those who believe in him. This, of course, does not stop non-believing adults from joyously wishing each other "Happy Christmas."