Happy Halloween, Japanese Style

When I was growing up, Halloween wasn’t much of an event in Japan. A few neighborhoods and apartment buildings with predominantly foreign residents would host trick-or-treat, but the holiday otherwise passed unnoticed. Of course a country that loves cosplay (costume play) is perfect for Halloween. What started out a few years ago as individual club events has turned into a major unofficial street gathering in places like Shibuya and Roppongi. A few years ago, some friends visited for Halloween after seeing this video of the Shibuya event. Halloween happened to fall on a Saturday that year so it was a particularly busy event.

The trend in Japan seems to be group themed costumes. There were lots of Waldos, Minions, and Marios.

I really loved this group of Berts, but didn’t spot Ernie.

Shibuya is really crowded – think Times Square on New Years Eve without the crowd control. Luckily these days you can get into the Halloween spirit anywhere in Japan. There are holiday decorations in department stores and train stations everywhere.

You can send Halloween greetings or make gift bags with this great selection at Loft Ginza.

Fujiya’s Pekochan is ready to go trick-or-treaking in Tokyo.

So is Sachan in Himeji.

Even the persimmons are dressed up for Halloween in Takayama.

Krispy Kreme Japan is ready for Halloween.

Roppongi’s Yelo has Halloween Kakigori (shaved ice) with Japanese Yam and Purple sweet potato puree.

Dominique Ansel Tokyo and the majority of patisseries in Japan have Halloween themed treats.

Even many wagashiya (traditional Japanese sweet shops) are getting into the Halloween spirit.

However you celebrate, ハピ　ハロウイン (Happy Halloween)!