Japanese Holidays

I thought that everyone might be interested in knowing what holidays we celebrate here in Japan.

January 1-New Year's Day

Coming of Age Day-Second Monday of January

This holiday is to celebrate when young Japanese men and women reach the age of adulthood (21).

National Foundation Day-February 11

This holiday is to celebrate the founding of Japan by the Emperor Jimnu in 660 BC.

Vernal Equinox-Around March 20

This holiday to celebrate life and nature.

Showa Day-April 29

This holiday is to reflect on the events of the Showa Era (1926-1989).

Constitutional Memorial Day-May 3

This holiday celebrates the beginnings of the modern Japanese constitution in 1947.

Greenery Day-May 4

This holiday is to celebrate nature.

Children's Day-May 5

This holiday is to celebrate children.

(Constitutional Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children's Day are collectively called "Golden Week" because companies give workers a whole week off around these holidays!)

Marine Day-Third Monday in July

This holiday is to celebrate the sea.

Respect-for-the-Aged Day-Third Monday in September

This holiday is for reminding people to treat their elders with respect.

Autumnal Equinox-Close to September 23

This holiday is for honoring one's ancestors.

Health and Sports Day-Second Monday in October

This day is encourage people to enjoy sports.

Culture Day-November 3

This holiday is to celebrate the announcement of the constitution on November 3, 1946 and promote culture.

Labor Thanksgiving Day-November 23

This is basically the Japanese version of Labor Day.

The Emperor's Birthday-December 23

This is to celebrate the birthday of the current emperor Akihito (December 23, 1933).