Japan Christmas Food Ideas Everyone Should Know About!

Even though the majority of people in Japan don’t celebrate Christmas in the traditional sense, those who do have some delicious and unique holiday foods! 

And you know what really caught my attention while researching Japanese Christmas food? KFC (yes, the fast-food chain!) has become a Christmas tradition there, thanks to a clever marketing campaign back in the 1970s that made fried chicken the go-to meal for the holiday season. 

But enough about that fun fact—let’s dive into some of the best Japanese Christmas food ideas you absolutely need to know about!

Blistered Shishito Peppers

Let’s kick off this Japanese Christmas food list with some appetizers! These shishito peppers are a must-try—cooked up quickly in a skillet until perfectly blistered, they have a mild flavor that’s totally irresistible. They’re the perfect bite to start any holiday meal!

Blistered Shishito Peppers

Learn how to make blistered shishito peppers in a skillet! You’ll just need shishitos, olive oil, and this simple recipe. Appetizers don’t get any easier.

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Sushi Christmas Tree Recipe

Of course, I can’t forget about traditional sushi, and this time it’s shaped like a festive Christmas tree! Filled with delicious salmon and a generous drizzle of creamy Kewpie mayonnaise, this sushi tree is a stunning centerpiece that’s sure to impress your guests!

Sushi Christmas tree

Loaded with two kinds of salmon and plenty of creamy Kewpie mayonnaise, this Japanese-inspired finger food Christmas tree doesn’t need any gifts stashed underneath – it’s a gift in itself!

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Yakitori (Japanese Skewered Chicken)

I love skewered chicken, and this Japanese yakitori is bursting with so much flavor that I’m sure it’ll be a hit! Grilled over charcoal and brushed with a sweet soy glaze, it’s perfect for a party. These bite-sized food will have everyone reaching for more!

Yakitori (Japanese Skewered Chicken)

Yakitori is a Japanese skewered chicken, cooked on griller with either sweet soy sauce or just salt. You don’t marinate chicken!

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Tempura Donburi

It’s hard to believe there are people out there who don’t love tempura—just look at this dish! Light, crispy shrimp, and veggies are served over a bed of fluffy rice, making each bite a ball of heavenly delicious treat. Pair it with some miso soup, and you’ve got a meal that’s simply irresistible!

Shrimp & Vegetable Tempura Donburi (Rice Bowls)

A simple tempura donburi recipe loaded with crispy shrimp and vegetable tempura. Served with authentic dipping sauce & green tea, it’s just like eating out!

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Kaarage Chicken (Japanese Fried Chicken)

As I mentioned, fried chicken is a must-have for a Japanese Christmas, and this karaage chicken is your top choice! Marinated and fried until crispy, it’s the kind of dish that will make you forget all about takeout. With a squeeze of lemon or a side of kewpie mayo, it’s pure comfort food that works for any celebration!

Karaage Chicken (Japanese Fried Chicken) Recipe

With karaage chicken by your side, you’ll never want to eat takeaway chicken again. Inspired by Chinese fried chicken recipes, karaage is a delicious izakaya or bento box favourite, comprised of crunchy, deep fried pieces of marinated chicken served with a liberal squeeze of lemon juice or a side pot of kewpie mayonnaise.

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Japanese Tofu Steak

Tofu is one of my absolute favorites, and this version is no exception! The tofu is pan-fried to get that perfect and crispy exterior, then coated in a sweet and savory sauce that just makes each bite so satisfying!

Japanese Tofu Steak

This vegan Japanese Style Tofu Steak is inspired by teppanyaki seasoned with sauce with mirin, soy sauce and vegetarian oyster sauce.

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Unagi Don Grilled Eel Rice Bowl

If you haven’t tried an eel rice bowl yet, you’re definitely missing out! This dish features tender and grilled eel fillets drizzled with a flavorful homemade unagi sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy white rice – so tasty!

Unagi Don Grilled Eel Rice Bowl Recipe

Learn to cook authentic Japanese cuisine with japancentre.com’s recipes. This donburi rice bowl dish with freshly grilled eel is a summer favourite.

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Japanese Coffee Jelly

Time for desserts, and I swear by this Japanese coffee jelly! It’s a chilled treat that combines the bold flavor of coffee with a light and wobbly texture. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for a perfectly refreshing dessert!

Coffee Jelly コーヒーゼリー

Learn how to make chilled Japanese Coffee Jelly at home with just 4 ingredients and cool down on a hot day with this easy sweet treat!

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Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

I know matcha is getting trendier these days, and honestly, I can’t blame anyone because it’s both delicious and healthy! This green tea ice cream brings a refreshing twist to dessert with its vibrant flavor and smooth texture. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a sweet treat while staying on trend!

An Easy Recipe for Homemade Japanese Green Tea (Matcha) Ice Cream

This is a simple recipe for making matcha ice cream at home using an ice cream maker. Matcha ice cream is also popularly referred to as “green tea ice cream.”

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Yokan

I’m so excited to try yokan! Just looking at this traditional Japanese treat, I can tell it’s going to be a sweet and delicious dessert. Made from azuki beans and a touch of kanten, its unique texture and subtle sweetness make it a must-try for anyone eager to explore new flavors!

Yokan 羊羹 – Chopstick Chronicles

Yokan is a Japanese sweet azuki bean jelly popular for its unique flavour and texture. Discover its interesting history and how to make it!

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Chi Chi Dango 

Last but not least is this chi chi dango! I absolutely love this treat—just look at those vibrant colors; they’re perfect for the Christmas season! Made with mochiko flour and coconut milk, it’s a fun and festive addition to any table!

Local Japanese-Hawaiian Chi Chi Dango

Hawaiian-style Chi Chi Dango is a recipe that has been adopted to be part of Hawaii’s many cultures celebrated on the islands.

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Huge thanks and hugs to the original creators of these recipes! You are all so talented and creative!