Japan Public Holidays
Japan Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Japan? All public holidays in Japan are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Japan employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Japan and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
Japan is known for its rich history, deep cultural traditions, and a unique calendar of public holidays. These holidays reflect Japan’s commitment to honoring its past, its devotion to nature, and its celebration of key moments in the country’s history. The following is a detailed list and description of the public holidays in Japan, categorized by type and significance.
1. New Year’s Day (元日, Ganjitsu) – January 1
Description
New Year’s Day, or “Ganjitsu,” is one of Japan’s most important holidays. The day marks the start of the new year and is celebrated with various customs and family gatherings. Traditionally, Japanese people visit shrines or temples, enjoy special New Year’s food (osechi-ryori), and send New Year’s cards (nengajo). It is a time of renewal, reflection, and gratitude.
Observance
New Year’s Day is a public holiday in Japan, and many businesses, schools, and government offices close for the day. The entire country is in a festive mood, with temples and shrines seeing large crowds for Hatsumode, the first shrine visit of the year. Most families celebrate together, enjoying a meal and engaging in various cultural traditions. Public transport runs on limited schedules, and many public places, including stores, remain closed.
2. Coming of Age Day (成人の日, Seijin no Hi) – Second Monday in January
Description
Coming of Age Day is a celebration for young people who have reached the age of 20, the legal age of adulthood in Japan. The day is filled with ceremonies and celebrations that honor the responsibilities and rights of adulthood. Many young adults dress in formal attire, such as kimono for women and suits for men, and attend ceremonies organized by local governments.
Observance
Coming of Age Day is a public holiday, with ceremonies held in cities and towns across Japan. Many 20-year-olds attend the official ceremonies, and the day is marked by festivities, gatherings, and family celebrations. Most businesses and schools are closed, although some services, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors, continue to operate.
3. National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) – February 11
Description
National Foundation Day honors the founding of Japan and its first emperor, Emperor Jimmu, according to Japanese mythology. The day is celebrated to reflect on Japan’s long history and the foundation of its state. National Foundation Day serves as a day for Japanese citizens to show pride in their nation and its traditions.
Observance
National Foundation Day is a public holiday, with many people participating in patriotic events, including ceremonies and festivals. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed for the day. The holiday is not marked by extravagant celebrations but rather through reflection on Japan’s past and its development into a modern state.
4. Vernal Equinox Day (春分の日, Shunbun no Hi) – Around March 20 or 21
Description
Vernal Equinox Day marks the arrival of spring and is a time to celebrate the season’s changes. It is a day of nature appreciation and a time for families to visit the graves of their ancestors, honoring them through rituals such as the equinox-hōji. The holiday also signifies the importance of balance in life.
Observance
Vernal Equinox Day is a public holiday in Japan. Many people take the opportunity to enjoy the arrival of spring, participating in outdoor activities such as hanami (cherry blossom viewing). The day is also a time for visiting family graves, reflecting on the importance of family bonds, and appreciating the natural world. Most businesses and government offices are closed, and public transport services may operate on a holiday schedule.
5. Showa Day (昭和の日, Shōwa no Hi) – April 29
Description
Showa Day honors the birthday of Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito), who reigned from 1926 to 1989. The day serves as a time to reflect on the events of the Showa era and the country’s transformation during that period. It is part of the Golden Week celebrations and marks the start of a series of public holidays in Japan.
Observance
Showa Day is a public holiday, and many people enjoy the time off by traveling or participating in family gatherings. The holiday is a time for reflection on Japan’s history, particularly the events that occurred during the reign of Emperor Shōwa. Public transportation sees an increase in traffic, as it marks the start of Golden Week, one of Japan’s busiest holiday seasons.
6. Constitution Memorial Day (憲法記念日, Kenpō Kinenbi) – May 3
Description
Constitution Memorial Day commemorates the promulgation of the post-war Constitution of Japan in 1947. This day is dedicated to reflecting on the principles of democracy, liberty, and peace. It also serves as a reminder of Japan’s commitment to peace following the end of World War II.
Observance
Constitution Memorial Day is a public holiday, and it is often observed with discussions, ceremonies, and educational programs about the Japanese constitution and its significance in shaping modern Japan. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed. Some cities host parades or special events celebrating the country’s democratic principles.
7. Greenery Day (みどりの日, Midori no Hi) – May 4
Description
Greenery Day is dedicated to the appreciation of nature and the environment. The holiday encourages people to spend time outdoors, reflect on environmental conservation, and appreciate the beauty of nature. The day was initially created as a way to honor the connection between people and nature.
Observance
Greenery Day is a public holiday in Japan, and many people participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, visiting parks, and attending nature-related events. It is a time for people to enjoy and appreciate the natural world. Most businesses and schools are closed, with people spending the day outdoors or enjoying time with family.
8. Children’s Day (こどもの日, Kodomo no Hi) – May 5
Description
Children’s Day is a celebration dedicated to the health and happiness of children. The holiday is part of Golden Week and involves various customs, such as displaying koinobori (carp-shaped flags), which symbolize strength and perseverance. Families celebrate the day by wishing for their children’s success and happiness.
Observance
Children’s Day is a public holiday, and families across Japan celebrate by displaying koinobori, wearing traditional clothing, and enjoying family activities. Schools are closed, and many families take the opportunity to visit relatives or enjoy outdoor activities. It is a day dedicated to children, with many communities organizing events or festivals specifically for kids.
9. Marine Day (海の日, Umi no Hi) – Third Monday in July
Description
Marine Day celebrates Japan’s rich maritime history and the importance of the sea in Japanese culture. The holiday encourages people to appreciate the ocean, its resources, and Japan’s maritime traditions. It also marks the beginning of the summer holiday season.
Observance
Marine Day is a public holiday, and many people take advantage of the long weekend to travel, particularly to coastal areas. It is a time for reflection on Japan’s connection to the sea and its role in the country’s development. The holiday is marked by festivals, fireworks, and outdoor activities like barbecues and beach visits. Most businesses and government offices are closed.
10. Mountain Day (山の日, Yama no Hi) – August 11
Description
Mountain Day celebrates Japan’s mountainous landscape and the importance of mountains to Japanese culture, agriculture, and spirituality. The day encourages people to get outdoors and connect with nature, particularly by hiking and enjoying mountain-related activities.
Observance
Mountain Day is a public holiday, and many people take the opportunity to visit mountain regions for hiking or sightseeing. Some people participate in mountain-related activities or festivals. Schools, government offices, and most businesses are closed, with public transport operating on a holiday schedule.
11. Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日, Keirō no Hi) – Third Monday in September
Description
Respect for the Aged Day is dedicated to honoring elderly people and celebrating their contributions to society. It is a time to show appreciation for the older generation and to reflect on the importance of family and community care for the elderly.
Observance
Respect for the Aged Day is a public holiday in Japan, and many families take the opportunity to visit elderly relatives or participate in activities that honor older members of society. It is also common for people to hold special events, such as ceremonies or dinners, to recognize the elderly. Most businesses and government offices are closed.
12. Autumnal Equinox Day (秋分の日, Shūbun no Hi) – Around September 23
Description
Autumnal Equinox Day marks the arrival of autumn and is a time for reflection and family gatherings. Similar to the Vernal Equinox, it is a day to honor ancestors, visit family graves, and appreciate the changing of the seasons. The holiday emphasizes family connection and the cycle of life.
Observance
Autumnal Equinox Day is a public holiday, and it is marked by activities such as grave visits, prayers, and family gatherings. Many Japanese people take the day off to enjoy nature and reflect on the year. Schools, businesses, and government offices are closed, and public transport may operate on a holiday schedule.
13. Health and Sports Day (体育の日, Taiiku no Hi) – Second Monday in October
Description
Health and Sports Day is a national holiday that encourages people to engage in physical activities and maintain a healthy lifestyle. It was originally established to celebrate the opening of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and remains an important day to focus on physical fitness and well-being.
Observance
Health and Sports Day is a public holiday, and many people participate in sporting events, fitness activities, and health-related events. It is common for schools to organize sports days, and various local governments hold athletic festivals. The day is observed with a focus on physical activity, and most businesses, schools, and government offices are closed.
14. Culture Day (文化の日, Bunka no Hi) – November 3
Description
Culture Day celebrates Japan’s cultural achievements and promotes the development of the arts and sciences. The day encourages appreciation for Japan’s heritage, traditional crafts, and contemporary arts. It is also a time to reflect on the role of culture in shaping the nation.
Observance
Culture Day is a public holiday, and it is often marked by art exhibitions, theater performances, and cultural festivals. Many museums, galleries, and cultural institutions offer free admission or special events. Schools and government offices are closed, and people take part in activities that promote cultural appreciation and creativity.
15. Labor Thanksgiving Day (勤労感謝の日, Kinrō Kansha no Hi) – November 23
Description
Labor Thanksgiving Day is a public holiday to honor the hard work and contributions of workers in Japan. The day recognizes the importance of labor in the country’s economic and social development. It also serves as a time to reflect on the country’s efforts to build a more equitable and productive society.
Observance
Labor Thanksgiving Day is a public holiday, and many people participate in community events and volunteer activities. It is a day to express gratitude for the contributions of workers, and schools, government offices, and most businesses are closed. Some local governments host parades, fairs, and other events to celebrate the importance of labor.
16. Christmas Day (クリスマス, Kurisumasu) – December 25
Description
Although not officially a public holiday in Japan, Christmas is widely celebrated as a secular occasion in the country. The holiday is marked by Christmas parties, special meals, and decorations. While it is not a traditional Japanese holiday, it has become increasingly popular, particularly among younger generations.
Observance
Christmas Day is not a public holiday, so most businesses and government offices remain open. However, many people participate in private celebrations, particularly with family and friends. It is common for people to enjoy festive meals such as fried chicken or Christmas cake, and shopping districts are often decorated with Christmas lights and displays.
Table: Public Holidays in Japan and Observance
| Holiday | Date | Observed By | Public Sector | Private Sector | Schools |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Coming of Age Day | Second Monday in January | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| National Foundation Day | February 11 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Vernal Equinox Day | Around March 20 or 21 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Showa Day | April 29 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Constitution Memorial Day | May 3 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Greenery Day | May 4 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Children’s Day | May 5 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Marine Day | Third Monday in July | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Mountain Day | August 11 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Respect for the Aged Day | Third Monday in September | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Autumnal Equinox Day | Around September 23 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Health and Sports Day | Second Monday in October | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Culture Day | November 3 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Labor Thanksgiving Day | November 23 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Nationwide | Closed | Open | Closed |
