Have you ever wondered how the Christmas tree came about? We see Christmas trees everywhere especially when the holiday seasons are approaching. But very few of us know how this tradition was formed.

According to history, the first tree was put up in the Strasbourg Cathedral in Germany in 1539. But although the Christmas tree’s inception was in Germany, it was in Britain that this decor has been popularized. It wasn’t until late in the 19th century that the Christmas tree was accepted in the U.S. According to German tradition, Christmas trees were decorated with gingerbread, nuts and apples and as years go by, these decorations were replaced with glass, plastic and modern lights.

Though Japan has a very sturdy ancient tradition on celebrating the holidays, the country has also been influenced by the West in many ways. How do the Japanese decorate their homes you might wonder? Check out these Christmas trees that one of our writers spotted around the city.

Photos by Gabrielle Ewart