Chicken For Christmas

Japan is heading for recession, their economy hit first by a jump in oil prices and now by the global financial crisis. Retailers have been hit hard by as the middle classes cut back on spending so they are trying to woo the super-rich with ever more extravagant offers.

For those in Japan willing to splurge this Christmas a department store is offering truffle-stuffed roast chickens for 84,000 yen (£540) each. Takashimaya Co have started taking orders for the 12 capons being flown in from France in time for Christmas Eve, filled with black truffles, foie gras, white sausage and chestnuts. "People may think it's expensive, but it would be perfect for a party as it feeds six to eight people," said a representative of Takashimaya.
Only one has been ordered so far.

Having chicken for Christmas is evidently popular in Japan, there is an existing Japanese tradition dating to the 1970s: head to the nearest Kentucky Fried Chicken where a meal of roast chicken, cake, salad and a commemorative plate sells for 5,300 yen (£32).

I'm very happy to be home with my turkey and stuffing thank you!