Black Friday is no longer just an American shopping tradition—it’s a global phenomenon. But did you know that Japan celebrates Black Friday in a completely different way? From black-themed sweets to calm, seasonal sales, Japan’s version of this event reflects its unique culture and consumer habits. In this article, we’ll explore how Black Friday differs across Japan, the US, and Singapore—and why Japan’s take might surprise you.
Let’s Do a Quick Review: How Black Friday Became a Global Event
Black Friday started in the United States as the day after Thanksgiving—a time when people kick off their holiday shopping with huge sales and early-morning store openings. The name “Black Friday” originally came from Philadelphia in the 1960s, where police used it to describe the heavy traffic caused by shoppers flooding the streets after the holiday.
The meaning of “Black Friday” has shifted over time. “Black” doesn’t just refer to the color—it also symbolizes profit, as it’s the day many stores move from being “in the red” to “in the black.”
Today, Black Friday isn’t just an American tradition—it’s a global celebration of shopping. Countries around the world have embraced the event, each adding their own cultural twist. Some focus on online deals, others highlight food, fashion, or even travel. It’s fascinating to see how one day can take on so many different flavors depending on where you are.
How Unique Is Japan’s Black Friday?
Japan’s Black Friday is a quiet affair. Since there’s no Thanksgiving tradition here, the event doesn’t come with holiday chaos or family gatherings. And yet, Black Friday is definitely part of the Japanese shopping calendar—just in a very different way.
Instead of massive crowds and overnight lines, Japan’s version is calm and orderly, just like everyday life. But what makes it truly unique is the creative twist on food. Many products—especially sweets, breads, and snacks—are themed around the color black. Fried chicken from konbini (Japan’s ultra-convenient convenience stores) comes with a crispy black coating. Spring rolls are wrapped in dark skins and filled with sukiyaki beef.
Even melon pan, a beloved sweet bun with a cookie-like crust, gets a makeover: instead of its usual golden top, it’s covered in a rich, black cocoa cookie dough—intentionally dark and delicious, not burnt. Sometimes, chocolate chips are even mixed into the fluffy bread inside.
Of course, major retailers like Aeon, Uniqlo, and Don Quijote also offer big discounts during this time. But here’s the twist—Japan’s Black Friday isn’t just a single day. It often stretches over two weeks or more, giving shoppers plenty of time to enjoy the deals without the rush.
In Japan, people love limited-edition items and seasonal treats. Black Friday becomes a chance to celebrate everyday joys, indulge in something special, and find a reason to treat yourself before the year ends. It’s not just shopping—it’s a seasonal experience, uniquely Japanese in every way.
A Different Kind of Black Friday: Thoughts from Japan
While Japan’s Black Friday is quiet and focused on food, Singapore’s is fast and digital. Most deals are online—on Shopee, Lazada, or through airline sales like Singapore Airlines’ Black Friday promotion.
But I can’t help but wonder—what about older generations who aren’t as comfortable with apps or online payments? Do they miss out on the fun? In Japan, even seniors can enjoy Black Friday by simply walking into a convenience store and picking up a limited-edition black sesame pudding or a crispy black-coated fried chicken.
And when it comes to travel deals, I’ve noticed something else: in Japan, people often book their trips far in advance—sometimes months before Black Friday. So while the discounts are tempting, they don’t always match the timing of how people actually plan their holidays.
It’s fascinating to see how the same event can reflect such different lifestyles. In Singapore, Black Friday is about speed and digital convenience. In Japan, it’s about savoring seasonal flavors and enjoying the moment. Neither is better—just beautifully different.
Authentic US Black Friday—A Dream from Japan
I’ve never experienced Black Friday in the U.S., but honestly, I’d love to see the real thing someday. Do people really walk around with shopping bags in both hands, surrounded by family? Do they gather at a big table to eat roasted turkey together after a day of shopping? It sounds like a scene from a holiday movie—and I find it fascinating!
In Japan, we don’t have Thanksgiving, so Black Friday feels more like a quiet shopping event than a holiday celebration. There’s no big family meal, no long weekend, and definitely no early-morning stampedes at the mall. Instead, we enjoy calm sales, black-themed sweets, and seasonal treats from convenience stores.
I was surprised to learn that in the U.S., some stores open as early as 5 a.m., and people line up in the cold just to grab the best deals. It’s a mix of excitement, tradition, and even a little chaos. In contrast, Japan’s version is more about browsing slowly, enjoying limited-edition items, and finding joy in the small things.
It’s amazing how the same event—Black Friday—can feel so different depending on where you are. I’d love to experience the American version one day, just to feel that festive energy in person.
If you’re curious about everyday konbini products, take a quick look at my article below!
Final Thoughts
Black Friday around the world is truly fascinating. I wonder if other countries also offer black-themed items like Japan does during this season… Wherever you are, I hope you find something fun, delicious, or meaningful this Black Friday. And if you’re curious about Japan’s version, don’t forget to check out those unique black-themed sweets—they’re full of surprises!
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