Culture Day Date: November 3

Culture Day is a public holiday in Japan.

Culture Day in Japan is held on November 3, 2009. This holiday commemorates both the birth of Emperor Meiji and the day the first Japanese constitution was adopted in 1946.

History of Japan’s Culture Day

Culture Day was originally established to celebrate the birth of Emperor Meiji (1852-1912). Following Emperor Meiji’s death, his birthday was renamed Culture Day for the purpose of honoring traditional Japanese cultural arts.

In Japan, honoring Imperial birthdays is a relatively new tradition. In past centuries, emperors were mysterious figures controlled by the Shogun and the Imperial Court. Emperor Meiji was the first emperor to emerge from the shadows and reclaim the power and dignity of the Imperial family. In 1868, the Shogun government was abolished, allowing Japan to begin to advance into the modern world.

Japanese Culture Day Traditions, Customs and Activities

On Culture Day, festivals are held around the country, celebrating traditional Japanese art. There is also a long parade through the city of Hokone where people wear traditional clothing from the Edo era. At Meiji Shrine—which is named in honor of Emperor Meiji—there are various martial arts demonstrations given throughout the day. The Order of Culture Awards are held in Tokyo’s Imperial palace and are typically presented by the Emperor to people who make outstanding contributions to Japanese culture.

Other interesting posts:

• The Emperor’s Birthday is Festively Celebrated in Japan
• Japan’s Celebration of National Foundation Day
• Japan Ocean Day