Culture Day, also known as Bunka no Hi, is celebrated every November 3rd. It has been that way for the last 76 years. However, November 3rd has been seen as an important day in Japan for over 100 years. Did you know that Culture Day was originally a different holiday? Culture Day In Japan 文化の日
Emperor Meiji was born on November 3, 1852. In 1867, Emperor Meiji took the throne. From 1868 until he died in 1912, November 3rd was a holiday to celebrate the Emperor’s birthday. It is important to note that in Japan, the emperor’s birthday is a national holiday, which changes with the emperor's changes. This tradition is called Tennou tanjoubi (天皇誕生日), which translates to “The Emperor’s birthday. At present, Emperor Naruhito’s birthday is February 23rd, making this our new tennou no tanjoubi. If the emperor’s birthday falls on a Sunday, it is observed as a public holiday the following day.
Given the cultural and historical significance Emperor Meiji had on Japan, the Imperial Diet made the former emperor’s birthday a celebration once again. This day became known as Meiji setsu to honor Emperor Meiji. In 1948, after WWII, Meiji Setsu was changed to Culture Day. According to National Today, Culture Day is celebrated to “pay respects to the traditional Japanese culture and to promote the notion of peace and freedom that is declared in the constitution of Japan.”
What happens on Culture Day? Since it is a public holiday, schools and most businesses are closed, allowing people to attend festivities throughout the country. Japan tour city lists a few Culture Day events that are definitely worth checking out next year.
The Order of Culture Awards held at the Imperial Palace
The parade in Hakone, where people wear traditional clothing from the Edo period
Martial arts demonstrations at the Meiji Shrine in Shibuya
Jidai Matsuri in Asakusa
In addition to the festivals, there are art exhibits and award ceremonies to celebrate Japan’s beautiful culture.
Let us know, and tag us in a post to let us know what you have done for Culture Day in or outside of Japan! Also, comment below and let us know what you learned from our post!
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