How KFC Became a Christmas Tradition in Japan

When I tell people in Japan that Americans do not eat chicken on Christmas, they are often surprised. I’ve heard two theories about how KFC became associated with Christmas in Japan. The first is that Colonel Sanders resembles Santa Claus. The second theory is that expats in Japan, unable to find turkeys, opted for chicken instead.

When I was living in Japan, this tradition did not exist, so I decided to experience it for myself. Most people reserve a Christmas package in advance, but I wasn’t that desperate. Instead, I walked into a KFC today. There were two lines: one for those with reservations and another for walk-ins. I purchased the smallest Christmas package, which cost ¥2,500 (about $17). That’s quite steep by Japanese standards. It seems that KFC can command this price because people value the brand.

Out of curiosity, I tried accessing KFC’s American website, but it was blocked in Japan. My guess is that the company wants to prevent Japanese customers from discovering that Americans don’t associate KFC with Christmas. The U.S. menu, after all, doesn’t include any Christmas specials.

When I got home and opened the package, the contents surprised me: one piece of BBQ chicken leg, three biscuits (each with a hole in the middle), and a generous portion of french fries. Judging by the three biscuits, I assume this meal is designed for three people—a typical Japanese family unit. However, with only one chicken leg, the situation reminded me of the Cratchit family in A Christmas Carol. Is this really what a Japanese family does for Christmas? An unsolved mystery. And what’s with the hole in the biscuits?

I ended up eating the entire package myself. The chicken was pretty good, and the biscuits, paired with the provided “Honey Maple” packets, were enjoyable as well. The french fries, however, were unremarkable.

Overall, the experience was underwhelming. Given that Japan offers an abundance of cheaper and higher-quality food options, I suspect the allure of KFC lies in the idea of participating in an “American” tradition. So, if Japanese people ask how you celebrate Christmas, tell them you go to KFC.