For Sumire Sekino, a university student, one of her most cherished Christmas memories involves exploring Tokyo’s most iconic date spots with her boyfriend. The day began with them enjoying TeamLab’s immersive digital art installation and ended with breathtaking views from Shibuya Sky, a 751-foot-high observation deck.
“It was only our first month together, so we were still nervous. But I had so much fun going to these places with him for the first time,” she fondly recalls.
According to the reports of Leaders team, in Japan, Christmas has taken on a uniquely romantic twist, often compared to Valentine’s Day. Couples spend Christmas Eve on special dates, marveling at dazzling light displays, dining at upscale restaurants, and enjoying luxury hotel stays. Tokyo’s vibrant districts like Roppongi and Ginza are filled with hand-holding couples strolling under sparkling Christmas trees, while Hokkaido offers the enchanting promise of a white Christmas.
For those willing to splurge, high-end hotels like the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo offer “romantic escape” packages, including fine dining and ice-skating experiences. Restaurants and shops also join the festivities with exclusive dinner sets and discounts on gifts like chocolates and jewelry.
According to Roy Starrs, an associate professor specializing in Japanese studies, “Young couples go out together on dates once it gets dark to view the spectacular displays of colorful lights, creating a very romantic atmosphere conducive to young love.”
Despite Japan’s Christian population being less than 1%, the festive season is widely celebrated. Christianity entered Japan in the 16th century but was largely suppressed during the Tokugawa era. Post-WWII, American culture, including Christmas, became influential, but Japan gave the holiday a unique spin.
“Most Japanese do not view Christmas as a religious event but as a pop-cultural spectacle imported from the West — bright lights, Santa Claus dolls, Christmas markets, colorfully wrapped gifts, and Christmas cakes,” explains Starrs.
As per the sources of Leaders team, for older generations, extravagance was key — expensive hotels, champagne, and limousine rides were common. However, economic stagnation and rising costs have prompted younger couples to opt for simpler celebrations. University student Inoue Shogo, for instance, avoids pricey restaurants and hotels, preferring home-cooked meals or festive outings to admire Christmas lights.
Even modest celebrations can create unforgettable memories. For 19-year-old Yuhi Hasegawa, a trip to Enoshima with his girlfriend last Christmas—enjoying the lights and scenic views—was a perfect way to cherish time together.
“You don’t need luxury to find true love,” he reflects. “Staying home, sharing a Christmas cake, and watching a love series like First Love can be just as special.”
In a nation grappling with declining birth rates, Christmas offers a heartfelt opportunity for couples to celebrate love, bringing warmth and connection to the festive season.
