In Japan, we are accustomed with cerebrating Christmas,
mainly as the day of merry party, not as the day of praying.
Because, most of us are not Christians.
So, Christmas day is NOT a national holiday, of course.
But 23rd of December is a National Holiday of Japan.
This day is our Emperor's Birthday. The birthday of our current Emperor.
Yes.
His Majesty's birthday is conveniently (or inconveniently) close to Christmas.
And so...
The day becomes de facto Christmas event day in Japan.
Many of Christmas parties and events are hold on 23rd of December,
not on 24th nor 25th of December.
Most of us, the Japanese people consider it is lucky to have a national holiday near real Christmas day,
without a doubt.
But I am not sure His Majesty Himself thinks it lucky. :-p
