Christmas in Finland
In the first Sunday before the birth of Jesus, the churches in Finland have almost no standing room. In front of the cathedrals 30-40 meter (100 feet) Christmas trees are raised. On the 24th of December, at exactly midnight from the balcony of the mayor's office, a city representative gives the "Christmas peace".
Until Epiphany, anyone who disturbs the peace receives harsh punishment. The custom is 600 years old and respected all through the country.
Christmas in the United Kingdom
In the UK the famous Santa Claus does not exist. Kids receive gifts from Father Christmas on the 25th of December instead of the 24th. It's very interesting that, instead of opening their gifts on the spot, the kids wait until later in the day. Also, they don't send letters to Father Christmas but they put them on the chimney or in the window in Christmas stalkings on Christmas Eve.
Christmas in China
On Christmas, chinese christians decorate their houses with paper lamps, and hang paper chains and flowers in their Christmas trees. Chinese children hang stalkings and await the visit of Old Christmas Man. The most important chinese festival is held at the end of January and is named the "Spring Festival". The children receive new clothes and toys and their ancesters are celebrated.
Christmas in Japan
Christmas was introduced in Japan by christian missionaries and, for a long time, it was celebrated only by the japanese christians. Due to the post belic american influence, the Japanese Christmas industries developed and the celebration became very popular.
Hoteiosho is a japanese god that brings gifts. He has eyes on the back of his head with which he sees the children's behaviour, whether they have been good or bad.
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