National Day of Japan (2026)

Japan’s National Day is its National Foundation Day celebrated on the 11th of February each year. The National Foundation Day marks the founding of Japan in 660 BC when Emperor Jimmu, its first emperor, sat on the throne. This day serves as a reminder to the Japanese of their roots as a nation. The National Day strives to foster nationalistic spirit among the citizens. However, there are still some debates surrounding the celebration of this day in Japan.

Here is everything you need to know about National Foundation Day in Japan.

Table of Contents

• Is National Day in Japan a public holiday?
• History of National Foundation Day in Japan
• Japan National Foundation Day Activities and Celebrations
• Past and Future Observances of National Foundation Day in Japan

Is National Day in Japan a public holiday?

National Day in Japan is a public holiday. Government offices, schools, and most businesses are closed on February 11th. Likewise, if the National Day falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is observed as a holiday.

History of National Foundation Day in Japan

According to legend, Emperor Jimmu founded Japan on February 11th (the first day of the first month) 660 BC. The date was determined in January 1873 when Japan switched from using the traditional Japanese lunar calendar to the Gregorian calendar. However, some historians believe that this date was merely folklore and not entirely factual. Thus, there were several times in Japan’s history when the holiday was removed. In 1966, the holiday was renamed National Foundation Day. Prior to this, February 11th was observed as the Empire Day or “Kigensetsu”. To this day, the National Foundation Day of Japan remains controversial.

National Day Foundation Activities and Celebrations

Before the start of World War II, the Japanese observed National Foundation Day with grand parades. However, when controversies arose about the factual basis of the event, celebrations became muted. The large parades and original practices were removed. Today, there is still a flag raising ceremony on February 11, although blatant expressions of patriotism and nationalism are rarely exhibited on the streets of Japan.

Past and Future Observances of National Foundation Day in Japan

Below are the past and future observances of the National Foundation Day in Japan: