Are you in the Christmas spirit and hoping to have a lovely time during the holidays? Not sure what to do or how to celebrate in a foreign wonderland like Japan? Look no further because I’m giving you 10 wonderful, magical, festive Christmas activities you can experience in the Kansai area this year.
Christmas is always a fun time of year. What’s not to love? Everyone is in good spirits, there are gorgeous winter illuminations everywhere, and there are so many German-style Christmas markets in Japan that you can wander through. As someone who loves Christmas—and loves giving presents—I am absolutely living for the season.
If you’re craving even more Kansai Christmas ideas, check out some of my previous winter adventures:
If you’re at a loss for how to spend the holidays this year, this article is exactly what you need.
In case you’re wondering how Japanese people usually spend Christmas, here’s a fun fact that foreigners always love talking about: many Japanese families eat fried chicken for Christmas dinner! Yes—KFC Christmas is a whole thing here. I still don’t really know the full lore, but ordering fried chicken and enjoying a Japanese Christmas cake with loved ones is a tradition.
If you want to feel extra immersed in Japanese holiday culture, grab some friends, pick a house, and get ready to chow down on crispy chicken and a fluffy, fruit-topped whipped-cream Christmas cake. It’s simple, delicious, and very Japan.
Here is my 2025 list of unique Christmas activities to try this holiday season in the Kansai region, including Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe.
This is one of Osaka’s most famous winter illumination events. You can explore different areas of the city while enjoying the sparkling lights. But this year, there’s a twist—an interactive Santa quiz experience held through LINE. After visiting certain locations and completing the quiz, you can submit the keywords for a chance to win a prize.
If you want festive lights PLUS a little adventure, this is perfect.
If you’re searching for a low-key, cozy Christmas activity in Osaka, this is ideal. You can relax, sip some wine, paint something festive, and enjoy a quiet night with friends. Whether you’re an artist or you can barely draw a stick figure, it’s a fun and aesthetic way to enjoy the Christmas season in Japan.
For those who want something more energetic, why not go to a Christmas-themed language exchange? You’ll meet people from all around the world and from all around Japan who are also in the holiday spirit. It’s one of the best ways to make new friends, especially if you’re an expat living in Kansai or a traveler wanting to socialize.
Just hear me out—why not combine Christmas fun with Japan’s love for cosplay? Dressing up as a cute Christmas character or doing a themed photo shoot is surprisingly fun. Many photo studios in Japan offer costume rentals for a small fee if you don’t have your own.
If you’re planning a fancy, romantic date, this one is absolutely perfect. Imagine sitting in a room lit by over 500 candles, with live jazz music filling the air, all while eating a luxurious Christmas dinner. It’s straight out of a movie—and honestly, it’s the perfect setting for a proposal. 😉
The Sagano Romantic Train is already one of Kyoto’s most beautiful attractions, but during the winter season, it becomes even more magical. With illuminated scenery glowing around the mountains and rivers, it feels like you’re inside a winter fantasy film. Perfect for dates, family trips, or solo sightseeing in Kyoto.
Another dreamy, movie-like Christmas moment you can experience in Kyoto. This event is held at one of the most beautiful churches in the area, with candles scattered everywhere, creating a warm, romantic atmosphere. It’s great for photos, peaceful reflection, and feeling the holiday magic.
I can’t remember if I mentioned this in previous years, but the Kobe Christmas Market at Nunobiki Herb Garden is one of the most beautiful in all of Japan. Picture this: you take a ropeway up into the mountains, stroll through twinkling illuminations, and shop while enjoying warm Christmas treats. It truly feels like stepping into a European holiday village.
If you’re really in the giving spirit, consider volunteering with an NPO that delivers presents to children. You don’t need to look like Santa (though you can!), and they’re accepting applications for holiday deliveries. Whether you’re a man or a woman, you can be Santa—or Santa’s little helper. Find out more information here. (You may need to know a bit of Japanese to understand the instructions, though)
Why not try a Japanese Christmas workshop where you can make adorable decorations? Whether you’re interested in creating a fluffy linen-wire tree or a dried flower Christmas wreath, there are plenty of seasonal craft workshops around Kobe.
I really hope this blog post helped you discover your new favorite Christmas activity in the Kansai region and gave you plenty of options to make this holiday season magical, cozy, and unforgettable. Until the next article—stay warm, stay jolly, and stay healthy!
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