How do Asians celebrate Christmas?

Asians might even think of Santa Claus first instead of the season’s religious nature. Here are the various wonderful ways Christmas is celebrated in Asia.
Japan: For instance, the Japanese are essentially Buddhists and Shinto followers, so Christmas is more commercial, fun and romantic than holy. In fact, most people in Japan say the holidays are for Santa Claus, the exchange of presents on Christmas, and family holidays or outings on Christmas Day. For couples, Christmas is almost akin to Valentine’s Day, and most will do something special with each other, gifts included. Malls, shops and restaurants are decked with season decorations and will have special season-themed items for sale and unique set dishes for all to enjoy. 

South Korea: Here Christians make up about 30% of South Koreans, and the obligatory church celebrations and children carol-singing are abundant. But for 70% of Buddhists, it’s a public holiday of joy and relaxation, though only on Christmas Day. Their week-long winter break happens during the New Year instead. Though gift exchanges aren’t so common, large potluck dinners where everyone brings their dish is a big deal for family celebrations. There are also many unique events in Seoul and Busan: Everland and Lotte World, the two most famous amusement parks in Korea have awesome themed decor and festive activities. 

China: Although not an official holiday in China, the idea of a Christmas celebration has begun in recent decades, mostly in the more prosperous and international coastal cities, particularly in Shanghai. ‘Westernized’ Christmas is mainly celebrated in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. Nevertheless, large public businesses in China’s metropolises do put up extravagant lights and decorations, as well as special gift items for sale. Colourful, cellophane-wrapped ‘Christmas apples’ are one such. Santa is called the ‘Old Man of Christmas’ here and accompanies two female elves in performances. Some even have music played with traditional Chinese instruments! Interestingly, China is also the world’s largest exporter of Christmas decorations.

Thailand: Similar to China, Christmas is a working day in Thailand. About 85% of Thais are Buddhists, 14% are Muslims, with only 1% of Christians and other religions. But in tourist-centric spots, especially in Bangkok, lavish seasonal decorations do adorn the popular streets and malls, with special performances enjoyed by all.

Vietnam: Only a small percentage of the Vietnamese are Christians, and Christmas isn’t a public holiday. But celebrations happen just the same, thanks to their former French colonial influence; primarily in Ho Chi Minh. People get into the Christmas spirit by throwing confetti all around, having large group gatherings and eat-outs, as well as enjoying the light shows and taking pictures around the beautiful city decors. Some Catholic neighbourhoods put up huge nativity crib scenes in front of their houses with life-sized statues of Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and even the shepherds and animals. 

Malaysia and Singapore: Probably the only two Southeast Asian nations that celebrate all faiths, Christmas in Malaysia and Singapore is a public holiday, celebrated predominantly by Chinese and Indian Christians here – in part, due to their former Brit-colonial history. Singapore is more flashy and flamboyant, but both countries have festive decorations in popular commercial spots. Besides gifts, group dinners and general merry-making, fireworks too, are a must on Christmas Eve. For the not-particularly religious, it’s a night out for some grand partying.

Philippines: In all of Southeast Asia, Christmas is most-celebrated in the Philippines as many are Christians here. In fact, decorations and carols spring up as early as September, and the official festivities start on the 16th, continuing until Christmas Day. Traditional star-shaped lanterns made of bamboo and paper called ‘parols’ are everywhere, depicting the Star of Bethlehem as a symbol of hope and goodwill. Incredible street parades and performances too are a Christmas staple in major cities.