Christmas, with a Twist

Japan Trip Series, Part 2

​With my trip in November, I was curious to see if I’d encounter anything Christmas-y on my trip. Luckily, I got to see a couple Christmas sights, including lots of Christmas lights.

​In Fukuoka, after polishing off a deeply satisfying bowl of ramen, I wandered the city and happened upon a festival of Christmas lights and sights.

Ramen - November 14, 2025

Fukuoka Christmas Lights & Sights - November 14, 2025

​Then there’s Colonel Sanders. Yes, that Colonel Sanders. In Japan, KFC and Christmas are a package deal. Thanks to a wildly successful marketing campaign dating back to the 1970s, fried chicken became the go-to Christmas meal. Seeing Colonel Sanders dressed for the season felt less like advertising and more like cultural lore in physical form.

Colonel Sanders - November 14, 2025

​In a store bordering Shibuya Crossing, I encountered a unique Christmas sweater: Santa, wearing a space helmet, riding a cat. Festive. Absurd. Quirky. I just had to take a picture.

Christmas Sweater - November 18, 2025

​In Tokyo, while walking back to my hotel from the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, I happened upon a Christmas tree and lights display. There was a little crowd, with plenty of people posing for photos. It was enjoyable to see Christmas so loved in Japan. The aesthetic if nothing else. 

Tokyo Christmas Tree & Lights - November 19, 2025

​Christmas might be a little different in Japan, but it seemed pretty much the same to me, just with Colonel Sanders and less Christian imagery. 

​Wishing you all a Merry Christmas 🎄

Fukuoka - November 14, 2025

Note: All photos in this post were taken by me with an iPhone 17 Pro.