[For Seniors] Christmas-themed quiz. Liven up the fun with amusing trivia questions!

Wearing a topknot and hakama, holding a sword.

It is said that Christmas was introduced to Japan only after the Meiji era. For that reason, the Santa Claus of the time was a brave samurai, sporting a topknot and wearing hakama. That’s quite a different impression from the modern Santa, whose image is defined by the color red.

A Santa Claus in black clothes who kidnaps children

In Japan, when we think of Santa Claus, we picture a kind figure who gives presents on Christmas, but I’ve heard that in Germany there’s a story about a “Santa in black” who kidnaps children. While we usually only have the image of a good Santa, it seems there’s a darker Santa as well.

Chimney

It is said that Santa Claus enters houses through the chimney to deliver presents. This episode is said to have originated from the story of the person who inspired Santa Claus, who threw gold coins down a chimney for a poor girl.

Finland

Santa Claus Village is located in Rovaniemi, Finland. The village is known as the official residence of Santa Claus. There are many cafes and shops, and it attracts numerous tourists every year. It is said that the village is wrapped in a festive Christmas atmosphere all year round.

Ho ho ho

Santa Claus’s laugh is traditionally expressed as “Ho ho ho,” and in Japanese as “ホホホ、ほぅほぅほぅ,” and it’s considered the classic Santa laugh. This laugh is said to express joy and happiness. It conveys his cheerful and friendly personality.

Meat pie and milk

In the United Kingdom, it is customary for children to set out mince pies and milk for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. These are said to serve as his midnight refueling, and are believed to help him deliver all the presents throughout the night.

salmon

The answer is salmon, and it seems a 2018 Super Sentai show was the catalyst. A monster that appeared in it was named “Salmon Shakekistan-chin,” and they even did a collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries on social media. Since then, they’ve been recommending eating salmon for Christmas.