Celebrate Mt. Fuji Day on February 23!
- Narelle Katsumoto
- 2月23日
- 読了時間: 3分
Celebrate Mt. Fuji Day on February 23!
Every year on February 23, Japan celebrates Mt. Fuji Day! This special day was chosen because, in Japanese, 2-2-3 can be read as "Fu(2)-Ji(2)-San(3)," making it the perfect date to honor Japan’s most iconic mountain. More than just a fun wordplay, Mt. Fuji Day is a chance to appreciate the beauty, culture, and history surrounding this legendary peak.
The Meaning Behind Mt. Fuji Day
Mt. Fuji Day isn’t just about fun events—it’s also a time to reflect on the mountain’s cultural and historical significance. Both Shizuoka and Yamanashi enacted official ordinances in 2009 and 2011, respectively, designating February 23 as Mt. Fuji Day. The goal is to deepen people’s appreciation of Mt. Fuji and ensure its legacy is preserved for future generations.
Interestingly, the Japan Anniversary Association also recognizes Mt. Fuji Day, thanks to the efforts of the Forum of Mountain Views and Maps (FYAMAP). This group studies the visibility of Mt. Fuji across Japan online and helped establish the date as a way to celebrate the mountain during one of the clearest viewing periods of the year.
Why February 23? The Fun of Number Play!
Japan loves wordplay using numbers, a practice called "goroawase." Numbers are associated with sounds that resemble words, making them easy to remember. In the case of Mt. Fuji Day, 2-2-3 can be read as "Fu-Ji-San," perfectly matching the name of the mountain. This method is commonly used in schools for memorization and even for setting easy-to-remember passwords!
Additionally, February was selected since the clear winter air offers the most breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji.
Mt. Fuji and Japan’s Love for Nature
While Mt. Fuji Day is an optional commemorative day, Japan also celebrates "Mountain Day" on August 11, which is a national holiday dedicated to appreciating the country's mountainous landscapes. These days remind us of the deep connection between Japan and its natural beauty, encouraging preservation efforts and cultural appreciation.
Would you climb Mt Fuji?
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Mt. Fuji "Day" Festival – A Rice Ball Tradition
Mt. Fuji Day is filled with exciting events, especially in Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures, which proudly share this iconic mountain. From cultural festivals to local gatherings, it’s the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the traditions and natural beauty of Mt. Fuji.
In 2023, Mt. Fuji marked a special milestone—the 10th anniversary of its UNESCO World Heritage registration. To celebrate, the Mt. Fuji Day Festa brought communities together with performances, workshops, and interactive activities that highlighted the mountain’s cultural significance. Even the governors of Shizuoka and Yamanashi took part, making it a grand and meaningful event.
One of the most heartwarming traditions on Mt. Fuji Day is the Mt. Fuji "Day" Festival, where people gather to eat onigiri (rice balls) while facing Japan’s iconic mountain. Inspired by the popular children’s song Ichinen-sei ni Nattara ("When I Become a First Grader")—which dreams of sharing onigiri with 100 friends on top of Mt. Fuji—the event first started in 2023. To celebrate, 3,776 rice balls, representing the mountain’s height in meters, are handed out for free at various locations. The main festivities take place at the Fujisan World Heritage Center near Kawaguchiko Station, where the opening ceremony brings the community together.
Beyond the onigiri tradition, Mt. Fuji Day offers plenty of other exciting activities. At the Yamanashi Prefectural Mt. Fuji World Heritage Center, visitors can test their knowledge in a Mt. Fuji Day Quiz Rally, indulge in exclusive Fujiyama △ Crepes, join a relaxing Fujisan △ Yoga session, or even craft their own Fujisan Tin Badges. (4)
Join the Celebration!
Whether you're enjoying a rice ball with friends, participating in a local festival, or simply admiring Mt. Fuji from afar, February 23 is the perfect time to reflect on the beauty and significance of Japan’s most famous peak. So mark your calendar and celebrate Mt. Fuji Day with a view of this breathtaking symbol of Japan!
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