Christmas in Japan has some pretty unique traditions which might surprise you. While families in Western countries get together to eat roast dinner, Japanese families often celebrate with a KFC Christmas bucket — a beloved custom that’s become a national phenomenon.
Light and airy Christmas sponge cake has become the signature dessert, and December 24th is especially significant, particularly for young couples who treat it as a romantic holiday.
Even though there are some unique traditions, Christmas in Japan is a lot like the rest of the world in terms of the joy and festivities. If you want to mix things up with your holiday menu or just try something new, these recipes are perfect for your dinner table!
1. Soy-Glazed Christmas Chicken Leg Quarter
This Soy-Glazed Christmas Chicken is a total showstopper. The rich soy sauce glaze gives it a nice mahogany shine, and the yuzu citrus adds a surprising brightness to each tender bite.
While KFC might be Japan’s famous Christmas tradition, these roast chicken leg quarters are also popular options. To give an even more festive touch, I used yuzu for the glaze and marinade!
2. Light and Fluffy Japanese Christmas Cake
Japanese Christmas Strawberry Shortcake is a light and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for the holidays. It’s got layers of light Genoise sponge cake with fresh whipped cream and bright strawberries in the middle, making a gorgeous centerpiece that’s not as heavy as traditional Christmas sweets.
It’s an ideal choice for families seeking to start new holiday traditions with a dessert that’s both fun and universally loved.
3. Japanese-Style Roast Beef
Japanese-style stovetop “Roast Beef” is a total game-changer for holiday cooking. You can make it ahead of time, and it’ll still taste perfect. You don’t even need an oven!
The beef is thinly sliced and served chilled with a tasty soy sauce dressing and wasabi for extra Japanese flavor. It’s ideal for entertainers who love to prep ahead, as this showstopper tastes even better when made in advance.
4. Matcha Christmas Cookies
Make your holiday cookie platter stand out with elegant Matcha Butter Cookies, where classic Christmas shapes meet the sophisticated flavor of Japanese green tea.
The cookies’ unique piped designs, reminiscent of Christmas trees and wreaths, show how this Japanese-Western fusion dessert is both versatile and delicious! They also make great gifts for fans of matcha.
5. Japanese Potato Salad
Make your Christmas spread stand out with this unique Japanese potato salad, where crispy bacon meets creamy potatoes in a flavorful izakaya-inspired twist. This reimagined side dish perfectly balances savory depth with crunchy vegetables, creating an addictive dish that’s sure to be a hit at your holiday table!
If you’re a host looking to show your guests Japanese fusion cuisine without going too far from the usual holiday flavors, this is the perfect choice.
6. Matcha Tiramisu
Make your Christmas dessert unforgettable with this Japanese-inspired Matcha Tiramisu!
Each layer combines the richness of mascarpone with precisely measured matcha, creating a dessert that’s both visually stunning, perfectly creamy and deeply flavorful.
7. Yawata Maki
Looking to add something unique to your Christmas spread? Yawata Maki delivers both beauty and flavor with its perfectly glazed meat rolls stuffed with vibrant vegetables. This Kyoto creation adds an elegant Japanese touch to any holiday table.
While traditionally served for New Year in Japan, their glossy teriyaki-style finish and colorful vegetables make them look like Christmas ornaments.
8. Matcha Roll Cake
Make your Christmas dessert unforgettable with this bakery-style Matcha Roll Cake.
The matcha sponge is super light, wrapped around fresh cream and strawberries. It’s got a festive green and red look that’s perfect for the holidays.
9. Matcha White Hot Chocolate
Embrace Japanese-inspired holiday magic with this striking Matcha White Hot Chocolate.
The mix of earthy matcha and smooth white chocolate makes a sophisticated alternative to regular cocoa, and its gorgeous green color naturally goes well with your Christmas decorations.
10. Nama Chocolate
Nama Chocolate is the perfect addition to your Christmas celebrations, offering a taste of Japanese luxury.
Their sophisticated presentation and rich cocoa coating make them an impressive addition to holiday gift boxes.
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