How to spend a Japanese Christmas in Singapore

Roast turkey has no place on the dinner table when it comes to Japanese Christmas. Instead, people indulge in fried chicken – specifically from KFC. It is widely believed that the CEO of the fast-food chain, Takeshi Okawara, first dreamed up the idea of a Christmas ‘party barrel’ for Christmas during a time when turkey was extremely hard to come by. The idea took off in Japan, and that finger-lickin' good experience now comes part and parcel of the year-end festivities. Many even endure long hours of queue at their local KFC, but thankfully, we won’t have such a problem here. 

Another departure from tradition – the Japanese typically enjoy strawberry shortcake instead of the usual log cakes. But why the dainty fruit cake? The story goes that back in the days, when Japan had to rebuild its economy following its defeat in World War II, cakes and sweets were seen as a symbol of hope and future prosperity. Its colour of white and red is also similar to that of their national flag. And this is an idea we can get behind – the fluffy vanilla sponge and light whipped cream make strawberry shortcake an easy-to-eat dessert after a greasy KFC dinner. 

There lies a pocket of Japan within the walls of Marina Bay Sands. Over at Koma, the stunning Japanese restaurant captures the sights, and even mythology, within its expansive space. It even comes outfitted with impressive torii gates and a traditional Japanese bridge that stands atop a reflecting pool. At the main dining hall, savour its four-course Christmas menu ($350 for two), available from December 24 to 26. The lavish meal starts with truffle chawanmushi, and a special selection of sushi rolls topped with seasonal Japanese fish, or wrapped with king crab tempura. Other highlights include the choice of bincho sakura chicken, miso-marinated black cod, or wagyu beef sirloin, then round off the meal with a Christmas log cake. 

Pink Fish might typically be known for its salmon-based dishes, made using fresh catch from Norway, but for this festive period, it has created a limited-time bun made with a Japanese twist. Nordic shrimp comes tossed with juicy bursts of mentaiko ($10.90), then sandwiched between fluffy buns. This will only be available from now till the end of December.