HAPPENINGS

Have Fun The Japanese Way

Festivals and seasonal events are very important to the Japanese and they celebrate the festivals with much pomp and gaiety. Many of these festivals originated in
folk and religious rituals and a number date back hundreds of years.
Festivals offer a glimpse into Japanese culture and traditions, so it is advisable to consider the dates of these events when planning your trip. A list of cultural and religious festivals is available from your nearest branch of the Japan National Tourist Organisation.
January
1 Ganjitsu (New Year’s Day)
This is the most important holiday in Japan. It is a time when people celebrate the beginning of the new year and recall the events of old.
15 Seijin-no-Hi (Coming of Age Day)
In Japan, a person is considered an adult on his 20th birthday. This day is set aside for those who have turned 20 in the previous year to encourage them to be thoughtful and productive adults.
February
11 Kenkoku Kinene-no-Hi (National Foundation Day)
Legend has it that over 2,600 years ago on this day, Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan, ascended the throne. On this joyous occasion, Japanese celebrate their national legacy.
March
20 Shumbun-no-Hi (Vernal Equinox Day)
This day is devoted to promoting the love of nature and all its creatures.
April
29 Midori-no-Hi (Greenery Day)
This day was the birthday of the late emperor Showa. Upon his death in 1989, it was renamed Greenery Day and designated a national holiday.
May
3 Kempo Kinen-Bi (Constitution Memorial Day)
This anniversary marks the formation of the Constitution of Japan. It is celebrated to increase awareness of the Constitution.
5 Kodomo-no-Hi (Children’s Day)
Since ancient times, 5 May has been celebrated as Boys’ Festival. However, after World War II, it was designated a holiday for all children of Japan.
September
15 Keiro-no-Hi (Respect for the Aged Day)
On this day, people thank the elderly of the nation for their contribution to Japanese society.
22 Shubun-no-hi (Autumnal Equinox Day)
This is the day when Japanese worship their ancestors by offering prayers at their tombs.
October
10 Taiiku-no-Hi (Health Sports Day)
As the name suggests, this day promotes the mental and physical health of the people through the enjoyment of sports.
November
3 Bunka-no-Hi (Culture Day)
Culture Day fosters the love of freedom, peace and culture. Awards are given by the government to people who have made significant cultural contributions.
24 Kinro Kansha-no-Hi (Labour Thanksgiving Day)
On this day, Japan honours its workers, promotes respect for labour and celebrates the bountiful harvest.
December
23 Tenno Tanjo-Bi (The Emperor’s Birthday)
On this day, the emperor of Japan appears together with his family on the balcony of the Imperial Palace to greet crowds of well-wishers who are allowed to enter the Palace.