Japan

Japan : Public Holidays and Bank Holidays 2025 2026 2027

Public Holidays in Japan

Japan has a unique and culturally rich calendar of public holidays, reflecting its history, traditions, and seasons. These holidays often combine modern observances with centuries-old customs, providing people time to honor nature, family, and national milestones. Many holidays are celebrated with specific ceremonies, community events, and family gatherings.

• New Year's Day (January 1)

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the beginning of the year in the Gregorian calendar. It is the most important holiday in Japan, symbolizing renewal and the hope for good fortune.
  • Traditions: Visiting shrines (hatsumode), sending New Year cards, and eating special foods called osechi-ryori.
  • Date & Observance: Fixed on January 1, often accompanied by several days of holidays.

• Coming of Age Day (Second Monday of January)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates young people who have reached the age of 20, the age of adulthood in Japan.
  • Traditions: Ceremonies held at city halls where new adults dress in traditional wear, such as kimonos.
  • Date & Observance: Second Monday of January.

• Foundation Day (February 11)

  • Origin & Significance: Commemorates the founding of Japan and the legendary ascension of Emperor Jimmu.
  • Traditions: Patriotic events and reflections on national identity.
  • Date & Observance: February 11.

• Emperor's Birthday (February 23)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the birthday of the current Emperor of Japan.
  • Traditions: Public celebrations and the Emperor's appearance at the Imperial Palace.
  • Date & Observance: February 23.

• Substitute Holiday

  • Origin & Significance: A holiday observed when a national holiday falls on a Sunday, creating a day off on the following Monday.
  • Traditions: No special events, it ensures a weekday off for workers.
  • Date & Observance: Variable.

• Vernal Equinox Day (Around March 20)

  • Origin & Significance: Honors nature and living things, marking the spring equinox.
  • Traditions: Visiting family graves and appreciating the changing seasons.
  • Date & Observance: Varies slightly each year with the astronomical equinox.

• Showa Day (April 29)

  • Origin & Significance: Honors the birthday of Emperor Showa and reflects on the Showa era.
  • Traditions: Reflecting on peace and the country's history during Showa’s reign.
  • Date & Observance: April 29.

• Constitution Day (May 3)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the promulgation of Japan's postwar constitution in 1947.
  • Traditions: Civic events and public discussions on democracy.
  • Date & Observance: May 3.

• Greenery Day (May 4)

  • Origin & Significance: Promotes environmental awareness and appreciation of nature.
  • Traditions: Enjoying outdoor activities and nature.
  • Date & Observance: May 4.

• Children's Day (May 5)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates children's health and happiness, especially boys.
  • Traditions: Displaying carp-shaped flags (koinobori) and samurai dolls.
  • Date & Observance: May 5.

• Marine Day (Third Monday of July)

  • Origin & Significance: Honors the ocean's bounty and Japan’s maritime tradition.
  • Traditions: Beach outings and marine festivals.
  • Date & Observance: Third Monday of July.

• Mountain Day (August 11)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates the mountains and nature.
  • Traditions: Hiking and mountain-related activities.
  • Date & Observance: August 11.

• Respect for the Aged Day (Third Monday of September)

  • Origin & Significance: Honors elderly citizens and their contributions.
  • Traditions: Community events and family visits to elders.
  • Date & Observance: Third Monday of September.

• Autumnal Equinox (Around September 23)

  • Origin & Significance: Marks the autumn equinox and honors ancestors.
  • Traditions: Visiting family graves and reflecting on the changing season.
  • Date & Observance: Varies each year with the astronomical equinox.

• Sports Day (Second Monday of October)

  • Origin & Significance: Established to promote sports and healthy living, commemorating the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
  • Traditions: School sports festivals and community athletic events.
  • Date & Observance: Second Monday of October.

• Culture Day (November 3)

  • Origin & Significance: Promotes culture, arts, and academic endeavor.
  • Traditions: Award ceremonies and cultural expos.
  • Date & Observance: November 3.

• Labor Thanksgiving Day (November 23)

  • Origin & Significance: Celebrates labor, production, and giving thanks.
  • Traditions: Ceremonies to honor workers and productivity.
  • Date & Observance: November 23.

• National Holiday (variable)

  • Origin & Significance: Designated day to mark specific occasions by the government.
  • Traditions: Depends on the occasion.
  • Date & Observance: Variable.

Official Reference Site

• Japan Cabinet Office - Public Holidays