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Hello everyone!

Did you know that there are actually many holidays and annual events when you look at the Japanese calendar?

It seems that it is not widely known.

Since you are in Japan, why not enjoy Japanese life events during your precious stay?

In this article, we will introduce how to spend and enjoy Japanese annual events and holidays. (It already contains some overlapping content with the previous article!)


Japanese Annual Events
Next, we will introduce Japanese annual events. Depending on the event, it will be as exciting as a festival.

Although it is not a holiday, there are other annual events.

Setsubun: February 3rd
Setsubun is a day when the season changes from winter to spring, and we drive away evil.

On Setsubun, "bean throwing" is performed.

Since ancient times, demons have been considered evil, and the custom of throwing beans to drive them away continues to this day.

In addition to bean throwing, there is also the custom of eating sushi called "ehomaki".

It is said that if you eat it while facing the auspicious direction for that year without saying anything, your wish will come true.

Valentine's Day: February 14th
Japan also has the custom of Valentine's Day.

Originally, it was a day when women gave chocolate to men they liked.

Recently, there are some cultures that are unique to Japan, such as "reward chocolate" [Matsuzaka1], which people buy for themselves.

Hinamatsuri: March 3rd
Hinamatsuri is a day to pray for the healthy growth and happiness of girls.

At home, dolls called "hina dolls" are displayed a few days before the festival.

On the day, the whole family spends time together eating traditional dishes such as "chirashizushi".

White Day: March 14th
On White Day, men return the Valentine's Day gifts.

Chocolates, marshmallows, flowers, etc. are often given.

Incidentally, the White Day culture is said to have started in Japan.

This is because Japan has a culture of returning gifts for things that have been received.

Mother's Day (Haha no Hi): The second Sunday in May
Mother's Day is a day to show gratitude to mothers.

In Japan, it is customary to give carnations to mothers as a sign of gratitude.

Father's Day (Chichi no Hi): The third Sunday in June
Father's Day is a day to show gratitude to fathers.

Like Mother's Day, families spend precious time together by giving letters and beer as gifts.

Tanabata (Tanabata): July 7
Tanabata is a day related to a Japanese legend.

The legend is about Orihime and Hikoboshi.

The two were allowed to meet once a year on Tanabata by crossing the Milky Way.

It has been said since ancient times that on this day, Orihime and Hikoboshi grant people's wishes.

For this reason, on Tanabata, it is customary to write wishes on pieces of paper called tanzaku and hang them on bamboo leaves.

As Tanabata approaches, you can see bamboo leaves and paper strips in various places around town.

There are also places where you can write your own paper strips, so give it a try.

Obon: August 13-16
Although it varies by region, Obon is generally from August 13-16.

(In Tokyo and other areas in the Kanto region, Obon is held on July 13-15 of the lunar calendar.)

It is said that deceased ancestors temporarily return to their families during Obon.

Therefore, it is customary for families to gather together to visit graves and make offerings.

Halloween: October 31
In Japan, people also dress up in costumes and have parties at home on Halloween.

Many people enjoy themselves by decorating their rooms and wearing cosplay costumes.

Christmas: December 25
Christmas is a Christian celebration, but it is also popular in Japan.

During the Christmas season, beautiful illuminations and Christmas trees are displayed all over the city.

New Year's Eve (Omisoka): December 31st
New Year's Eve is a day to celebrate the end of the year.

On New Year's Eve, there is a traditional event in which temples ring the Joya no Kane bell 108 times.

In Buddhism, it is said that people have 108 earthly desires (things that cause worries and suffering).

Therefore, each time the bell is rung, one is erased, and the wish is made for a happy year in the coming year.

There are also temples where worshippers can ring the bell, so if you are interested, check it out.

At home, families spend a relaxing time eating "Toshikoshi soba" (a type of soba noodles) and watching special New Year's Eve programs.

Japan has various national holidays and annual events.


You will enjoy it even more if you know the reason why these days exist and how to spend them.

It will also be an opportunity to learn about Japanese history and culture.

Enjoy life in Japan even more through Japan's national holidays and annual events.


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