It’s no surprise that western companies are ready to exploit unsuspecting markets at any cost, and it seems even Christmas traditions are fair game for KFC. The New York Times reported that “Over the years, KFC Japan has successfully convinced the Japanese that its chicken is the only thing to eat for Christmas. It puts on a special promotion during the Christmas season, using TV advertising and specially designed props. (Even someone dressed as Colonel Sanders, Kentucky Fried Chicken's founder, helps with the promotion, donning a Santa outfit at storefronts.)

The "Christmas Barrel" it pushes during the season contains fried chicken, salad and a cold dessert. "Kentucky for Christmas" has become an established notion here, said Sumeo Yokogawa, KFC Japan's spokesperson. “All of these efforts result in sales that are 50 percent higher in December than other months.” See people queuing at KFC here.

As less than 2 percent of Japanese are Christians, Christmas is merely a commercial celebration introduced to the country by foreigners. There is no holiday, no turkey and no ham, but plenty have bought into the KFC dream.

Interestingly, the colour red is traditionally used for funeral notices in Japan, yet in Mexico wearing red underwear on New Years Eve is thought to bring you love. Hot red underpants.

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