Airport News Japan

"Real" Santa Claus Visits Haneda Airport and Train Terminal, Hops On for a Ride

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Santa Claus in front of Keikyu train

On December 11, the "real" Santa Claus showed up at Haneda Airport to hand out presents and delight traveling families at the airport this holiday season.

The official Santa Claus of the Finland Santa Claus Foundation traveled from Finland to Japan to appear at the event area in Haneda's Domestic Terminal 1. "I've come to deliver Christmas cheer to the survivors of the earthquake and everyone in Japan," Santa declared as he greeted the gathered crowd. He then gave presents of original mini memo books to preschoolers who had sung Christmas carols in the airport as well as to traveling families.

After the event, Santa made the rounds of the terminal and then headed to the underground Haneda Airport Domestic Terminal Station (Keihin Kyuko Line). On the way he handed out presents and stopped to take pictures with travelers in the corridors, at shops, in front of the ticket gates and on the station platform. Santa then boarded a local train on the line and took a seat among the families and other passengers to provide them with a rare sight.

The visit by Santa Claus was arranged by the airport terminal's operator, Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd., and Keihin Electric Express Railway Co., Ltd. "This is the first time the 'real' Santa Claus has come to Haneda Airport," said an airport spokesperson. The Christmas festivities will come to a climax on December 23 - 25 (but last until the 30th). In addition to the Christmas Market and concerts in the terminal, travelers will be able to enjoy fun scratch-off cards and more entertainment.

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