Updated November 22, 2013

The wreaths that once adorned the windows of my elementary school inevitably became victims of political correctness – the complaints of a lone parent were enough to banish the offending rings of evergreen branches. I am still angry about this. I’ve always maintained that wreaths, lights, and Christmas trees are far less symbols of Christianity than they are a celebration of winter, as befits their pagan origins.

Christmas concert in Ueno Station

Christmas concert in Ueno Station

So it comes as no small joy to spend December in Tokyo, where the loud and proud display of Christmas decorations proves that you can have Christmas without Christianity.

Christmas decorations on a shopping street in Nakai, Tokyo.

Snow isn’t very common in Tokyo, so don’t expect a white Christmas; but if you’re interested in seeing what Tokyo looks like in the snow, take a look at the following:

• Another snowy day in Tokyo 東京の別の雪の日
• A snowy night in Tokyo 東京の雪の夜