Japan celebrates numerous national holidays throughout the year. Please consider the following information, as popular tourist attractions tend to be crowded during major holidays and vacations that overlap.
New Year – January 1
New Year’s Day is a time for families to welcome the Toshigami-sama, the god of the year, who brings us happiness for the year ahead.
We visit shrines and temples and eat “Osechi,” a unique New Year’s food.
Also, many young people in the city go out on the countdown from the night of December 31st, as there are many events going on.
Coming of Age Day – Second Monday of January every year
The day is celebrated to congratulate and encourage young people who have turned 20 years old in the past year to become responsible adults and contributing members of society.
On Coming of Age Day, many young adults dress in traditional kimono or furisode and attend ceremonies held by their local municipalities.
National Foundation Day – February 11
National Foundation Day (Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is commemorating the legendary foundation of Japan in 660 BC by Emperor Jimmu. The day is celebrated with various festivities, including parades, ceremonies, and cultural events.
Emperor’s birthday – February 23
The Emperor’s Birthday is an annual public holiday in Japan celebrating the birthday of the reigning Emperor. The date of the holiday changes with each new Emperor. The current Emperor’s Birthday is February 23rd.
Spring Equinox Day -March 20 or 21
Shubun-no-hi is one of the national holidays in Japan. According to the National Holidays Law, the day on which the vernal equinox occurs according to astronomical observations is selected and declared a holiday.
Showa Day – April 29
Showa Day is the birthday of the Showa-era emperor.
It is a day to “reflect on the Showa Era, a time of reconstruction after turbulent days, and to think about the future of the nation.
The period from the end of April to the beginning of May, when holidays are concentrated, is called “Golden Week.
This period is the season for long vacations in Japan.
Constitution Day – May 3
A day to commemorate the day when the Constitution of Japan was enacted (May 3, 1947) and to wish for the development of the country.
The period from the end of April to the beginning of May, when holidays are concentrated, is called “Golden Week.
This period is the season for long vacations in Japan.
Greenery Day – May 4
Greenery Day is a day to become familiar with nature, to be grateful for its blessings, and to nurture a rich spirit.
The period from the end of April to the beginning of May, when holidays are concentrated, is called “Golden Week.
This period is the season for long vacations in Japan.
Children’s Day – May 5
It is a day to celebrate the growth of all children and to say “thank you” to their mothers.
The period from the end of April to the beginning of May, when holidays are concentrated, is called “Golden Week.
This period is the season for long vacations in Japan.
Marine Day – third Monday of July
It is a day to be thankful for the blessings of the sea and to wish that Japan, an island nation, will prosper together with the sea.
Mountain Day – August 11
Mountain Day is a national holiday to “take the opportunity to become familiar with the mountains and be thankful for their bounty.
Respect-for-the-Aged Day – Third Monday in September
A day to “honor the elderly who have served society for many years and celebrate their longevity.
Vernal Equinox Day – September 22 or 23
It is the day when the length of the day and the length of the night become the same, as the hot summer begins to turn into the cool autumn.
Health and Sports Day – Second Monday in October
Sports Day is a day to “enjoy sports, cultivate a spirit of respect for others, and hope for the realization of a healthy and vibrant society.
Culture Day – November 3
It is a national holiday to “love freedom and peace and promote culture.
Labor Thanksgiving Day – November 23
A day to respect labor, celebrate production, and give thanks to the people for each other.
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