jadkins.com

Christmas Cake

Merry Christmas Everybody! Today is a special post that relates to Japan AND Christmas: Christmas Cake! What is Christmas Cake, you ask? Well, Japan, as you may know, isn't a Christian Country, But they still have an odd set of Christmas customs. The day has become, much like in the US, a day for children's presents. A few children, I am told, even believe in Santa Claus. Outside of that, it isn't a family holiday like it is in the west. Christmas eve is a night for couples to go out and have dinner. thats about it. Traditionally it seems that KFC is an important part of Christmas in Japan, although, to be honest, I've never seen much interest in that particular tradition here in Tokyo (maybe it's different in other parts of Japan). What I do see a lot of is Christmas Cake. I don't really know why 'cake,' but thats what you get. There is nothing special about the cake itself, although strawberry seems to be a common trend. It's tasty and expensive (what else would you expect?).

Just FYI: I had sushi and crab-miso soup for Christmas Eve dinner, and I'll probably have some chicken for dinner tonight. A very different experience from "traditional."