Overview of Public Holidays in Japan

Japan observes 16 national public holidays annually, as stipulated by the Public Holiday Law (国民の祝日に関する法律). These holidays are designed to honor nature, culture, and historical events. If a public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday becomes a substitute holiday (振替休日, furikae kyūjitsu). Additionally, if a single day falls between two public holidays, it becomes a "Citizen's Holiday" (国民の休日, kokumin no kyūjitsu).

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List of Public Holidays in Japan

Below is a detailed breakdown of each public holiday, its cultural significance, and practical considerations:

1. New Year’s Day (元日, Ganjitsu)

• Date: January 1
• Significance: Marks the start of the new year. It is the most important holiday in Japan, with deep cultural and spiritual significance.
• Traditions: Families gather, visit shrines for hatsumōde (first shrine visit of the year), and enjoy traditional foods like osechi ryōri and mochi.
• Costs: Shrines may charge small fees for charms or fortunes. Transportation and accommodation costs are high due to peak travel.
• Considerations: Many businesses close from December 29 to January 3. Plan ahead for travel and shopping.

2. Coming of Age Day (成人の日, Seijin no Hi)

• Date: Second Monday of January
• Significance: Celebrates young people who turn 20, the age of adulthood in Japan.
• Traditions: Ceremonies are held at local government offices. Participants wear traditional attire like furisode (for women) or suits (for men).
• Costs: Renting or purchasing traditional clothing can be expensive.
• Considerations: Visitors may enjoy observing the ceremonies but should be respectful.

3. National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi)

• Date: February 11
• Significance: Commemorates the founding of Japan and the ascension of the first emperor, Emperor Jimmu.
• Traditions: A day for reflecting on Japan’s history. Some shrines hold ceremonies.
• Costs: Minimal, unless visiting specific events.
• Considerations: A quiet holiday with limited public celebrations.

4. Vernal Equinox Day (春分の日, Shunbun no Hi)

• Date: Around March 20 (date varies slightly each year)
• Significance: Celebrates nature and the changing of seasons.
• Traditions: Families visit graves to pay respects to ancestors (ohigan).
• Costs: Travel to cemeteries or temples may incur minor expenses.
• Considerations: A reflective and family-oriented holiday.

5. Shōwa Day (昭和の日, Shōwa no Hi)

• Date: April 29
• Significance: Honors Emperor Shōwa and reflects on his era (1926–1989).
• Traditions: Marks the start of Golden Week.
• Costs: Travel and leisure activities may be more expensive.
• Considerations: Part of a busy travel season.

6. Constitution Memorial Day (憲法記念日, Kenpō Kinenbi)

• Date: May 3
• Significance: Celebrates the promulgation of Japan’s post-war constitution in 1947.
• Traditions: A day for reflecting on democracy and peace.
• Costs: Minimal.
• Considerations: Part of Golden Week.

7. Greenery Day (みどりの日, Midori no Hi)

• Date: May 4
• Significance: Celebrates nature and the environment.
• Traditions: Many people visit parks and gardens.
• Costs: Entrance fees to parks or gardens may apply.
• Considerations: Part of Golden Week.

8. Children’s Day (こどもの日, Kodomo no Hi)

• Date: May 5
• Significance: Celebrates children’s happiness and health.
• Traditions: Families display koinobori (carp streamers) and samurai dolls.
• Costs: Decorations and gifts for children can be costly.
• Considerations: Part of Golden Week.

9. Marine Day (海の日, Umi no Hi)

• Date: Third Monday of July
• Significance: Honors the ocean and its importance to Japan.
• Traditions: Beach outings and water-related activities.
• Costs: Travel to coastal areas and activities may be expensive.
• Considerations: A popular time for leisure travel.

10. Mountain Day (山の日, Yama no Hi)

• Date: August 11
• Significance: Celebrates Japan’s mountains and encourages outdoor activities.
• Traditions: Hiking and mountain-related events.
• Costs: Travel and equipment rentals may be costly.
• Considerations: A relatively new holiday (established in 2016).

11. Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日, Keirō no Hi)

• Date: Third Monday of September
• Significance: Honors the elderly and their contributions to society.
• Traditions: Families visit elderly relatives and give gifts.
• Costs: Gifts and travel expenses.
• Considerations: A family-oriented holiday.

12. Autumnal Equinox Day (秋分の日, Shūbun no Hi)

• Date: Around September 23 (date varies slightly each year)
• Significance: Celebrates nature and the changing of seasons.
• Traditions: Similar to Vernal Equinox Day, with visits to graves.
• Costs: Minimal.
• Considerations: A reflective holiday.

13. Sports Day (スポーツの日, Supōtsu no Hi)

• Date: Second Monday of October
• Significance: Promotes physical activity and health.
• Traditions: Schools and communities hold sports events.
• Costs: Minimal.
• Considerations: Formerly known as Health and Sports Day.

14. Culture Day (文化の日, Bunka no Hi)

• Date: November 3
• Significance: Celebrates culture, arts, and academic achievements.
• Traditions: Museums and cultural institutions often offer free admission.
• Costs: Minimal.
• Considerations: A great day for cultural exploration.

15. Labor Thanksgiving Day (勤労感謝の日, Kinrō Kansha no Hi)

• Date: November 23
• Significance: Honors workers and their contributions to society.
• Traditions: A quiet day for reflection.
• Costs: Minimal.
• Considerations: Limited public celebrations.

16. Emperor’s Birthday (天皇誕生日, Tennō Tanjōbi)

• Date: February 23 (for Emperor Naruhito)
• Significance: Celebrates the reigning emperor’s birthday.
• Traditions: The Imperial Palace opens to the public for greetings.
• Costs: Free to attend the palace event.
• Considerations: A unique opportunity to experience Japanese tradition.

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Golden Week and Obon

• Golden Week: A cluster of holidays from April 29 to May 5. It is one of the busiest travel periods in Japan, with high transportation and accommodation costs.
• Obon (お盆): Not a public holiday but widely observed in mid-August. Families return to ancestral homes to honor deceased relatives. Expect crowded transportation and closures.

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Practical Considerations

1. Travel and Accommodation: Public holidays, especially during Golden Week, Obon, and New Year, see significant travel congestion. Book transportation and accommodations well in advance.
2. Business Closures: Many businesses, banks, and government offices close on public holidays. Plan errands accordingly.
3. Cultural Etiquette: Participate respectfully in local traditions, such as shrine visits or festivals.
4. Seasonal Activities: Many holidays align with seasonal changes, offering opportunities to enjoy Japan’s natural beauty (e.g., cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage).

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By understanding Japan’s holiday calendar, visitors and immigrants can better plan their activities, appreciate cultural traditions, and navigate the country effectively.