Many of us came to Japan alone and this can be especially hard during the holidays. While being away from family during the holidays can be challenging, celebrating the upcoming winter break in Japan alone doesn’t have to be daunting.

Some activities you can partake in are exploring local festivals, illuminations, and traditional events like Hatsumode. Try a festive KFC meal or join a Nabe party for a warm and communal dining experience.

If festivals and KFC aren’t your cup of tea, you can try connecting within the community:

This means building connections within the local community by attending events, language exchange meetups, or participating in holiday charity drives.

Searching with your local city hall, you can find several winter holiday events that would be the best fit for you. 

Celebrating the holidays in Japan without family may have its challenges, but it also opens the door to cultural exploration and personal growth. Embrace local traditions, savor unique flavors, connect with the community, and use technology to stay close to loved ones. The result can be truly enriching and memorable.