Japan’s public holidays are more than just days off – they are celebrations of the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. Each holiday provides a glimpse into the values that have shaped Japanese society for centuries. From welcoming the new year with family gatherings and traditional foods to honoring nature and ancestors, these holidays are deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
These special days celebrate important milestones like reaching adulthood and showing respect for the elderly. They also highlight Japan’s stunning landscapes and maritime traditions. Whether it’s the fun of Children’s Day or the reflection on historical events, Holidays in Japan In 2025 remind us to appreciate and preserve the customs that make this country unique.
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Public Holidays in Japan In 2025
Japan has a rich cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its diverse array of public holidays. Below is a comprehensive list of these public holidays in Japan In 2025:
| Holiday | Date | Weekday |
| New Year’s Day | Jan 01, 2025 | Wednesday |
| Coming of Age Day | Jan 13, 2025 | Monday |
| National Foundation Day | Feb 11, 2025 | Tuesday |
| The Emperor’s Birthday | Feb 23, 2025 | Sunday |
| The Emperor’s Birthday Holiday | Feb 24, 2025 | Monday |
| Vernal Equinox Day | Mar 20, 2025 | Thursday |
| Shōwa Day | Apr 29, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Constitution Memorial Day | May 03, 2025 | Saturday |
| Greenery Day | May 04, 2025 | Sunday |
| Children’s Day | May 05, 2025 | Monday |
| Greenery Day Holiday | May 06, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Marine Day | Jul 21, 2025 | Monday |
| Mountain Day | Aug 11, 2025 | Monday |
| Respect for the Aged Day | Sep 15, 2025 | Monday |
| Autumnal Equinox Day | Sep 23, 2025 | Tuesday |
| Sports Day | Oct 13, 2025 | Monday |
| Culture Day | Nov 03, 2025 | Monday |
| Labor Thanksgiving Day | Nov 23, 2025 | Sunday |
| Labor Thanksgiving Day Holiday | Nov 24, 2025 | Monday |
New Year’s Day (January 1)
This holiday marks the start of the new year in Japan. It’s a time for families to gather, pay respects at shrines, and enjoy special New Year’s foods like osechi ryori. Traditions like watching the first sunrise and sending nengajo (New Year’s cards) are also observed.
Coming of Age Day (Second Monday of January)
This national holiday celebrates those who turned 20 years old in the previous year, which is considered the age of adulthood in Japan. Special ceremonies called Seijin-shiki are held to honor these young adults and mark their transition into adulthood.
National Foundation Day (February 11)
This day commemorates the legendary founding of Japan and the accession of Emperor Jimmu, who is considered the first emperor of Japan according to traditional accounts. Many shrines and temples hold special events or ceremonies to mark this historical occasion.
The Emperor’s Birthday (February 23)
This holiday celebrates the birthday of the current Emperor of Japan, who serves as the symbolic head of state. In 2025, it will be Emperor Naruhito’s 65th birthday. The Imperial Palace in Tokyo often hosts celebratory events on this day.
The Emperor’s Birthday Holiday (February 24)
This is an additional day off to celebrate the Emperor’s Birthday, creating a three-day weekend. Families and friends typically use this extended break for short trips or leisurely activities.
Vernal Equinox Day (March 20 or 21)
This holiday, also known as Shunbun no Hi, is observed to mark the spring equinox and honor ancestors and nature. Many people visit family graves and hold special ceremonies to welcome the start of spring.
Shōwa Day (April 29)
This day commemorates the birthday of Emperor Showa (Hirohito), who reigned from 1926 to 1989. It’s a day to reflect on Japan’s history during the Showa era.
Constitution Memorial Day (May 3)
This holiday celebrates the enforcement of Japan’s post-war constitution in 1947, which established the country as a democratic and pacifist nation.
Greenery Day (May 4)
This national holiday promotes nature conservation and appreciation of the environment. Many people take this opportunity to go outside and enjoy nature.
Children’s Day (May 5)
Formerly known as Boys’ Day, this holiday celebrates the happiness and healthy growth of children. Families with sons display samurai dolls and carp streamers.
Greenery Day Holiday (May 6)
This is an additional day off to create a long weekend for Greenery Day and Children’s Day. Families often use this extended break to plan outdoor activities or short trips.
Marine Day (Third Monday of July)
This holiday honors Japan’s close relationship with the ocean and maritime traditions. Many people take trips to the beach or participate in marine-related events. Coastal cities and towns often organize special festivals and events.
Mountain Day (August 11)
This relatively new holiday, established in 2016, encourages people to appreciate and enjoy Japan’s beautiful mountains and natural landscapes. Hiking and camping are popular activities on this day, as the Japanese take pride in their country’s scenic mountain ranges.
Respect for the Aged Day (Third Monday of September)
This day honors and shows gratitude towards the elderly in Japanese society. Many families visit their grandparents or hold special events at nursing homes. It is a time to celebrate the wisdom and contributions of the older generation.
Autumnal Equinox Day (September 23 or 24)
Similar to Vernal Equinox Day, this holiday marks the autumn equinox and is a time to honor ancestors and celebrate the autumn harvest. Traditional foods and visits to family graves are common practices.
Sports Day (Second Monday of October)
Formerly known as Health and Sports Day, this holiday promotes an active lifestyle and appreciation for sports. Many schools and communities hold athletic events and competitions. It is a day for Japanese citizens to embrace an active and healthy way of living.
Culture Day (November 3)
This holiday celebrates the promotion and appreciation of culture, arts, and academic pursuits in Japan. Various cultural events and exhibitions are held nationwide. It is an opportunity to explore and embrace the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Labor Thanksgiving Day (November 23)
This holiday honors the hard work and labor of all Japanese people. It’s a time to express gratitude for one’s efforts and achievements. Many companies organize appreciation events or parties for their employees.
Labor Thanksgiving Day Holiday (November 24)
This is an additional day off to create a long weekend for Labor Thanksgiving Day. Families and friends often use this extended break for short trips or leisurely activities.