Fried Chicken is an essential part of Japanese Christmas celebrations. And not just any fried chicken will do, mind you, but specifically KFC. Though more companies are trying to get a piece of the action these days, if you want a proper Japanese Christmas, you need KFC, or your feast will most likely be seen as just “O.K.”
For myself and most other Westerners, this can’t help but lead to one question:
Wait… what?
Okay, so that’s a bit unusual. Hm.
So… how did this all happen, and moreover— why?
I would love to give a nice, detailed write-up about the history of fried chicken— specifically KFC— and its ties to Christmas celebrations in Japan. I do intend to write my own at some point. But for now, the fact is that’s already been done a couple of times in thorough, well written articles, so until I have something bigger and more meaningful to contribute I think it’s best to direct you to those who already succeeded on the topic. Without further ado I would like to direct your attention to the following two pieces:
Greenfield, Rebecca. (2014, December 23rd). It’s Not Christmas In Japan Without KFC: The Power of Brand Marketing Over a Religious Holiday
Smith, K. Annabelle. (2012, December 14th). Why Japan is Obsessed with Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas
I hope that you’ll check them out, they are well worth the read. Either way, here are a few more photos for you to enjoy.
Merry Christmas, everybody!
—シロクマ