National Foundation Day: A Day to Reflect on the Birth of Japan

## What is National Foundation Day? **February 11th** is celebrated as **National Foundation Day (Kenkoku Kinen no Hi)** in Japan, a public holiday dedicated to commemorating the founding of the country. This day is not only about celebrating the nation's founding but also about reflecting on its origins and considering the nation's history. The name "National Foundation Day" reflects that it is a day to **commemorate the event of the country's foundation** rather than a specific historical date. This is due to the uncertainty surrounding the exact date of Japan's founding in ancient history. ## Why February 11th? The date of **February 11th** is derived from the **traditional founding date of Japan**, believed to be the day when **Emperor Jimmu**, the first emperor of Japan, ascended the throne. According to the **Nihon Shoki** (Chronicles of Japan), Emperor Jimmu is said to have ascended the throne in **660 BCE** on the first day of the first month of the old lunar calendar. In the Meiji era, this date was converted to the Gregorian calendar as **February 11th**. In 1873, the Japanese government officially established **Kigen Setsu (Emperor's Birthday)** as a national holiday to celebrate Japan's founding. However, after World War II, the holiday was abolished by the Allied occupation forces in 1948. Later, in 1966, **National Foundation Day** was reinstated as a national holiday, and it has been celebrated every year since 1967. ## How is National Foundation Day Observed? On National Foundation Day, several activities and traditions take place across the country: - **Ceremonies** are held at shrines, such as **Kashihara Shrine** (Nara Prefecture), which enshrine Emperor Jimmu. - **Government and local authorities** hold events, including flag-raising ceremonies and national anthem performances. - People also take the opportunity to **reflect on Japan's history and culture**, as well as the significance of the nation's foundation. While many people observe the day quietly, reflecting on Japan's history, some also participate in political activities or protests, expressing diverse opinions on the meaning of the day. ## Significance of National Foundation Day - A chance to **reflect on Japan's origins** and its historical journey. - A moment to **wish for peace and prosperity** for the nation. - A day to **reaffirm the relationship between citizens and their country**. National Foundation Day serves as an important occasion for **contemplating the nation's foundation** and its meaning in modern times, encouraging people to think about their shared history and future together.