Why do japanese people eat kfc on christmas

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Japanese people eat KFC on Christmas due to a highly successful marketing campaign launched in 1974 called "Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii" (Kentucky for Christmas). This tradition began when KFC Japan's first manager, Takeshi Okawara, promoted fried chicken as a Christmas meal alternative to turkey, which was scarce in Japan. By 2023, KFC Japan reported selling approximately 5-6 million Christmas meals annually, with customers often placing orders months in advance. The campaign's success has made KFC Christmas meals a cultural phenomenon, with over 3.6 million orders placed during the 2020 holiday season alone.

Key Facts

The tradition started in 1974 with KFC Japan's "Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii" marketing campaign
KFC Japan sells approximately 5-6 million Christmas meals annually as of 2023
Customers typically place Christmas orders 2-3 months in advance due to high demand
In 2020, KFC Japan reported over 3.6 million Christmas meal orders during the holiday season
The campaign was initiated by KFC Japan's first manager, Takeshi Okawara, who promoted fried chicken as a substitute for turkey

Overview

The tradition of eating KFC on Christmas in Japan originated in 1974 when KFC Japan launched its "Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii" (Kentucky for Christmas) marketing campaign. This innovative promotion was spearheaded by Takeshi Okawara, KFC Japan's first manager, who recognized an opportunity to position fried chicken as a festive alternative to turkey, which was difficult to obtain in Japan during the 1970s. The campaign capitalized on Japan's growing interest in Western Christmas celebrations, which had been introduced after World War II but lacked established food traditions. By 1980, the practice had gained significant popularity, with KFC Japan reporting that Christmas sales accounted for nearly one-third of their annual revenue. The tradition has since become deeply embedded in Japanese culture, with families often reserving their Christmas meals months in advance and KFC restaurants experiencing lines that stretch for hours during the holiday season.

How It Works

The KFC Christmas tradition operates through a highly organized system of pre-orders and special meal packages. Customers typically begin placing orders for Christmas meals in October or November, with KFC Japan offering various package options that include fried chicken, salad, cake, and champagne. The most popular package is the "Party Barrel," which contains enough food for a family celebration. KFC stores across Japan implement specific procedures for Christmas, including extended hours, dedicated pickup times, and temporary staffing increases to handle the surge in demand. The company's marketing strategy involves extensive advertising campaigns starting in early November, featuring celebrities and seasonal decorations in stores. KFC also collaborates with popular characters like Hello Kitty for limited-edition packaging, further enhancing the festive appeal. The entire operation is meticulously planned, with supply chains adjusted months in advance to ensure sufficient chicken and ingredients for the holiday rush.

Why It Matters

This tradition matters because it represents a unique case of successful cultural adaptation and marketing innovation. It demonstrates how a Western fast-food chain effectively created a new holiday tradition in a non-Christian country, generating substantial economic impact with Christmas sales representing a significant portion of KFC Japan's annual revenue. The phenomenon has influenced Japanese Christmas celebrations, making KFC meals a central part of family gatherings and holiday festivities. Additionally, it highlights the power of targeted marketing in shaping consumer behavior, as KFC successfully filled a cultural void by providing an accessible alternative to traditional Christmas foods. The tradition has also attracted international attention, becoming a well-known example of Japan's distinctive approach to adopting and modifying foreign customs.