What is national foundation day ?

National Foundation Day (建国記念の日、 Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is a public holiday in Japan celebrated annually on February 11th. It commemorates the founding of Japan as a nation and marks the mythical ascension of Emperor Jimmu (神武天皇) , Japan’s first emperor, to the throne in 660 BCE. 

Historical background and cultural meaning

The holiday reflects themes of national unity and pride, though its origins are rooted in legend rather than historical fact.

According to Japan’s ancient chronicles, the Kojiki (古事記) and Nihon Shoki (日本書紀), Emperor Jimmu (神武天皇), a descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu, established his reign on February 11, 660 BCE. The exact date was believed to be the first day of the first lunar month according to the ancient calendar. Jimmu faced various tribal resistance and challenges but is believed to have successfully united Japan’s disparate clans through military victories and alliances, symbolizing the beginning of a unified nation under one ruler. Emperor Jimmu’s reign, according to these texts, marks the beginning of the Japanese imperial line, which is said to have continued unbroken for more than 2,600 years, making it the longest hereditary monarchy in the world. This event symbolizes the birth of the Japanese nation. 

When Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar in the late 19th century, the lunar calendar date (first day of the first month) was converted into February 11th on the Western calendar. This led to the formal establishment of the holiday as Kigensetsu (紀元節) during the Meiji period in 1873, celebrating the “Imperial Era.”

After WWII, Kigensetsu was abolished due to its strong association with pre-war nationalism. However, it was reinstated in 1966 as a more neutral public holiday (Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) without its overt imperialistic connotations. The original date, February 11th, was preserved to maintain historical continuity.

Today’s celebrations

Today, National Foundation Day is a relatively low-key holiday compared to others in Japan. Celebrations typically include flag-raising ceremonies, where the national flag (Hinomaru) is displayed at homes, schools, and government offices. Public events are organized to reflect on Japan’s history and heritage, with cultural and historical activities taking place throughout the country. In some areas, small parades or traditional ceremonies are held, though these are not widespread, keeping the observance generally quiet.