Returning to Melbourne after spending a few Christmas’ (Christmases? Christmas’ees’? Christmay?) in Japan has reminded me of just how crazy things can get around this time of year.
So, here’s a rundown of some ads that are playing on Japanese TV around this time, plus some older, but favourite Japanese Christmas commercials.
My personal fave from that collection is a bunch of cats licking cat food sachets around the 10-minute mark, because what says Christmas more than tormenting your pet? Just feed them, ya grinches.
I’m pretty sure I’ve written at length about the cultural differences surrounding Christmas in Japan, but here’s a rundown of the main ones:
- If you’re single, find a date
- If you have a partner, book a fancy restaurant, or plan a day full of activities to spend with your partner
- If you’re eating at home, fried chicken and Christmas cake are considered the norm
- Just about every store that sells fried chicken will accept pre-orders for their ‘special’ Christmas chicken, including convenience stores and KFC, and some will even sell out
Whatever you’re up to at this time of year, I hope you have a safe and wonderful time with those special/close to you.