Introduction –
One of the things that people do not know is that there are several Japanese holidays and special occasions from January to December, which you can take part in. If you are taking a Japanese lesson, then it is important for you to know this, and it will be fun. It is one of the best ways to hone your skills in a true cultural setting. Here are a few of the Cultural holidays in Japan that you can enjoy and that you should remember. Some of these holidays are major ones, and you should remember this one. The main holiday celebration in Japan consists of Ganjitsu, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi, Hina Matsuri, the Girls’ Festival, National Foundation Day, New Year’s Day, and so on.
One of the best ways to deepen your understanding of Japanese festivals is to know the language. Here is the list of Japanese holidays:
Ganjitsu on the First of January
One of the best parts that you will know about this festival is that many businesses do not open until the 3rd of January, and there will be all types of traditions and parties to celebrate this day. Another thing you ought to know is that Japanese people begin with a fresh start, so you should leave your troubles and worries behind. And begin the new year with fresh perspectives, happiness, and joy.
KenKoku Kinen no Hi, or National Foundation Day, is observed on February 11th.
It is a historical holiday observed on February 11. The holiday is celebrated on the anniversary of the formation of the nation. During this festival, the national flag is raised, and the Prime Minister will give a speech. And the Japanese people show their national enthusiasm by waving the flag.
Hina Matsuri, a girls’ festival, will be held on March 3rd.
It is one of the favourite festivals among all of the Japanese holidays. On this day, the parents will wish their daughters happiness and success and bless them. Throughout Japan, many dolls and peach blossoms are displayed.
Shunbun No Hi occurs on the 20th or 21st of March.
This is one such type of national holiday that welcomes the end of the cold season, i.e., the winter season. And it welcomes the spring season. It is also one such time when people visit the tombs and honour the ancestors. Plus, this is a favouritism holiday for the farmers, who will be praying for a plentiful harvest.
Showa Day (April 29th, Showa No Hi)
It is part of the Golden Week, and this takes place on April 29, also known as the Emperor’s Birthday, as it begins the Showa Era from 1926 to 1989 and marks the start of the spring season in Japan.
(April 29-May 8) Golden Week
The golden week combines the foundational holidays in Japan. Then, on May 3rd, there is Kenpokinenbi, i.e., Constitution Day. It starts the new constitution, which was put in place in 1947.
Then, on May 4, it’s Midori no hi, or “Greenery Day,” when nature and the environment are celebrated. The Golden Week concludes with Kodomo no Hi, also known as Children’s Day. In which the Japanese families pray for their sons’ future success and good health.
Summer Solstice: From June 20th to June 21st
This holiday is an unofficial one, but there are chances that you can look for a celebration to attend. The summer solstice is a day that recognises the longest day in the year, a tradition that is honoured in Japan and all over the globe.
