National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is Japan’s annual holiday celebrating the legendary founding of the nation and the ascension of Emperor Jimmu, the country’s first emperor.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: February 11th annually
- Tagged as: Public Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalFoundationDay #KenkokuKinenNoHi
- When was it founded?: Originally established in 1873, reinstated in 1966
- Who founded it?: Prime Minister Eisaku Satō’s cabinet
History
The holiday commemorates the legendary coronation of Emperor Jimmu in 660 BC. Initially celebrated as National Empire Day during the Meiji period, it was abolished after World War II but later reinstated as National Foundation Day in 1966 with a renewed focus on national reflection rather than imperial celebration.
Timeline
- 660 BC: Legendary ascension of Emperor Jimmu
- 1873: First celebrated as Kigensetsu (Empire Day)
- 1948: Abolished after World War II
- 1966: Reinstated as National Foundation Day
- 1967: First modern celebration
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Feb 11 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | Feb 11 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | Feb 11 | Thursday |
| 2028 | Feb 11 | Friday |
| 2029 | Feb 11 | Sunday |
Observed
The day is marked by raising the national flag and official speeches by the Prime Minister. Many Japanese visit shrines, particularly Kashihara Shrine, and participate in cultural festivals and parades.
Fun Facts About National Foundation Day
- The date coincides with the promulgation of the Meiji Constitution in 1889
- Only 20% of Japanese people know the correct date of the holiday
- The holiday was initially celebrated with the lunar calendar before switching to the Gregorian calendar
Quiz
- When was Emperor Jimmu crowned according to legend?
- What was the holiday’s original name?
- In which year was the holiday reinstated?
(Answers: 660 BC, Kigensetsu, 1966)
FAQs
- Is it Japan’s independence day? No, it celebrates the nation’s founding
- Are businesses closed? Yes, it’s a national holiday
- How do modern Japanese celebrate? Mostly as a family day with shrine visits
Importance of National Foundation Day
- Promotes national reflection and cultural awareness
- Preserves historical traditions
- Provides opportunity for cultural education
- Encourages civic engagement
Related
- Constitution Memorial Day
- Emperor’s Birthday
- Culture Day
- Coming of Age Day
- Golden Week holidays