Halloween in Japan, like most “western” holidays celebrated, has taken on its own form. It wasn’t until Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios in Osaka started their themed events (similar to the states), that it became big. Being as I live near Tokyo, I’m not sure what it is like in the country. Halloween has definitely captured the interest of the capital city.
How is Halloween in Japan celebrated?
1) Trick or Treat isn’t a thing
If you are looking for Trick or Treating for the kids, unless you live near an American base (and know someone that can get you in), you won’t find that here.
2) Embrace the Costume!
As cos-playing (コスプレ, kosopure, “costume play”), is very popular in Japan, it was easy to embrace the dress up aspect and it more of an adult event.
3) Halloween Parades
This would count as a very Japanese custom. The biggest I know of are in Kanagawa, just south of Tokyo, and in Tokyo there are several. I actually haven’t been to one yet (I generally am at work when they are happening) but its more of an excuse for everyone to parade THEMSELVES through town and show off their costumes.
However, if you want a fancier affair, you can always head over to Tokyo Disney and see their parades! Both Tokyo Disney Land and Disney Sea have them, Sea being more “intense” than Land.
Universal Studios Osaka also has various events. They also have permanent attractions that are more on the scary side of things.
4) It’s a big party
The craziest of all Halloween is probably is what goes down at Shibuya Crossing. You may know it as the worlds “busiest pedestrian scramble”. A few years ago, they started shutting down the street during Halloween due to the amount of people showing up in costume to show off. In fact, it’s been a bit of a nuisance in recent news.
How’s the rest of the world?
For Japan’s only “Holiday” between Obon and Christmas (not including other various fall festivals), it will be interesting to see if and how it changes in the future years. How is Halloween celebrated in your neck of the world? Or is it even? Let me know in the comments!
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