Japan, with its deep cultural ties to the natural world, celebrates a variety of holidays that honor the changing seasons, natural wonders, and the people who inhabit the land. In fact, Japan observes quite a few national holidays, totaling 16 each year. This number surpasses that of the United States (which has 11) and the United Kingdom (with 8).
Here’s a list of Japan’s national holidays:
- New Year’s Day (ganjitsu): January 1
- Coming of Age Day (seijin no hi): Second Monday of January
- National Foundation Day (kenkoku kinenbi): February 11
- The Emperor’s Birthday (tenno tanjobi): February 23
- Vernal Equinox Day (shunbun no hi): Around March 20 or 21
- Showa Day (Showa no hi): April 29
- Constitution Memorial Day (kenpo kinenbi): May 3
- Greenery Day (midori no hi): May 4
- Children’s Day (kodomo no hi): May 5
- Ocean Day (umi no hi): Third Monday of July
- Mountain Day (yama no hi): August 11
- Respect for the Aged Day (keiro no hi): Third Monday of September
- Autumnal Equinox Day (shubun no hi): Around September 23 or 24
- Sports Day (taiiku no hi): Second Monday of October
- Culture Day (bunka no hi): November 3
- Labor Thanksgiving Day (kinro kansha no hi): November 23
Changing dates and long weekends
Some holidays, particularly those related to equinoxes, change every year. For example, Vernal Equinox Day and Autumnal Equinox Day vary slightly in their dates, depending on the year.
When holidays fall close together, many people in Japan take extra days off to create longer breaks. Two popular examples are Golden Week, in early May, and Silver Week, in September. These extended holiday periods allow people to enjoy vacations, visit family, and engage in leisure activities.
Time off in Japan’s strict work culture
Japan’s work culture is well-known for being demanding, with long hours and a strong focus on productivity. As a result, national holidays offer a rare opportunity for workers to step back and take a breather. The abundance of national holidays encourages more people to take time off, helping to balance the intense work environment.