Compared to the West, Christmas isn't as widely revered and celebrated in Asia; after all, there are not many Christian countries in the continent. However, Christmas is still considered a holiday where everyone's free to feel festive and joyful all season long. With that being said, here are 6 unique Christmas traditions in some Asian countries.
Philippines - Giant Lanterns and Nine-Day Mass
In the Philippines, decorative lanterns more commonly known as the parol holds significant cultural and religious significance especially during Christmas. Giant lanterns with radiant colors and intricate designs are typically sold and made from September to December - these parols illuminate the empty streets, as well as most - if not all - Filipino homes, and even tall buildings and establishments.
Usually designed with a big star in the middle, these lanterns symbolize the birth of Jesus Christ, the savior of humanity. These Christmas lanterns typically have bamboo sticks or wire frames as scaffoldings, as they are covered with colorful cellophane or rice paper. To make them even more attractive and eye-catching, parols are adorned with various embellishments such as tassels, shells, beads, or mirrors.
Meanwhile, the Philippines also practices the tradition of going to the simbang gabi, which is also known as misa de gallo. This is a traditional Filipino Catholic practice during the Christmas season that involves attending early morning masses for nine consecutive days, starting from December 16th and culminating on Christmas Eve.
Simbang gabi is a centuries-old tradition serves as a spiritual preparation for the birth of Jesus Christ. The pre-dawn masses are characterized by vibrant decorations like the aforementioned giant lanterns, enlivening hymns, and lively processions that epitomize Filipino devotion and fervor.
It's also common for families to gather together after attending these masses to partake in festive meals and traditional delicacies like bibingka and puto bumbong. Overall, the making of giant parols and simbang gabi exemplifies the unique blend of Spanish colonial influence with indigenous beliefs that has shaped Philippine culture over the centuries, making it an extraordinary manifestation of faith deeply ingrained in every Filipino.
Japan - Fried Chicken and Sponge Cake
Unlike in the Philippines, Christmas is not a national holiday in Japan, as the majority of the population identifies as Buddhist or Shintoist. However, Japan has embraced its own unique Christmas traditions that are mostly heavily influenced by Western culture.
For many Japanese people, Christmas is seen as a romantic day for couples rather than a religious celebration, and one popular tradition is to exchange gifts with loved ones and go on special dates to beautifully illuminated parks or shopping districts. In addition, it has become customary in Japan to decorate houses and streets with colorful lights and ornaments.
And while Western-style decorations can be found throughout Japan during this time, there's still a touch of cultural adaptation involved. For instance, instead of feasting on traditional turkey or ham as in Western countries, it's common to enjoy a festive meal at KFC due to an iconic marketing campaign in the 1970s that linked fried chicken with Christmas.
They also have a Christmas strawberry sponge cake also known as kurisumasu keki (クリスマスケーキ) that's filled with sweet cream and fresh strawberries, and typically decorated with a Santa Claus on it as well. Overall, Christmas in Japan showcases the country's ability to blend foreign influences with their own unique traditions and create something distinctively Japanese.
South Korea - Santa Haraboji
If the West has Santa Claus, South Korea has santa haraboji (산타 할아버지). Literally translating to "Grandfather Santa" in Korean, santa haraboji holds a special place in the hearts of South Koreans during the Christmas season. This unique cultural icon emerged as a fusion between the Western Christmas icon and the traditional Korean grandfather figure.
Santa haraboji embodies warmth, wisdom, and generosity and is adored by children and adults alike. Dressed in a vibrant Hanbok - which is traditional Korean clothing - paired with a white beard and red hat, he brings joy to Christmas celebrations across the country while promoting local customs.
Besides delivering presents, he teaches valuable lessons of respect for elders and emphasizes familial harmony during this festive time. The emergence of santa haraboji not only showcases South Korea's ability to blend traditions but also highlights their appreciation for cultural preservation amidst globalization. Through his presence, holiday festivities have transcended borders while maintaining a distinct Korean identity.
Singapore - Christmas Kettle
The Christmas kettle campaign in Singapore is a highly regarded and well-established tradition that symbolizes the spirit of giving and community support during the holiday season. Organized by The Salvation Army, this annual fundraising initiative aims to raise money for various social service programs that benefit individuals and families in need.
The iconic red kettles can be found at strategic locations across the city, manned by dedicated volunteers clad in Salvation Army uniforms. Passersby are encouraged to make monetary donations, which go directly towards providing aid and assistance to those facing hardship.
With every chime of the bell beside the kettle, Singaporeans unite in their selfless acts of generosity, embodying goodwill and compassion towards others. The Christmas kettle campaign not only raises crucial funds but also fosters a sense of shared responsibility within the community, reminding us all of the true meaning of Christmas – bringing joy and hope to all.
Hong Kong - Boxing Day
Christmas in Hong Kong is a vibrant and exciting time, with the festivities extending beyond December 25th to include the much-anticipated Boxing Day. As a former British colony, Hong Kong embraces this traditional holiday with enthusiasm and style.
On Boxing Day, locals and tourists alike flock to popular shopping districts such as Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui to take advantage of the amazing sales and discounts offered by retailers. The streets are adorned with dazzling decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that adds to the experience of shopping for discounted luxury brands and local goods.
In addition to shopping, many families also enjoy festive meals together or partake in recreational activities such as ice-skating or going for walks along Victoria Harbour. Christmas in Hong Kong truly captures the essence of multiculturalism and blending traditions, making it a remarkable celebration that locals look forward to each year.
Taiwan - Constitution Day and Winter Solstice
Christmas in Taiwan is a unique cultural celebration that combines both Western and Chinese traditions. The holiday is observed with festive decorations, gift exchanges, and performances such as choir singing and nativity plays. However, it is essential to note that Christmas coincides with two other significant events in Taiwan: Constitution Day and Winter Solstice.
Constitution Day commemorates the promulgation of Taiwan's current constitution on December 25, 1947, emphasizing the nation's dedication to democracy and human rights. Simultaneously, the winter solstice marks an important traditional festival in Taiwanese culture where families gather to enjoy special meals centered around sweet rice balls known as tangyuan (汤圆). This time of year indeed holds great significance within Taiwanese society as it harmoniously intertwines celebrations marked by religious observation, national pride, and ancestral reverence.