| 【PR】 Making a trip to Japan? Don’t risk a cultural mistake! Your comprehensive guide to Japanese etiquette and greetings is essential for every traveler. [Get the Kindle Edition Now on Amazon] |
We Have Two Long Weekends This Month!
November is finally here! Only two months remain in 2025.
As we enter November, let us first introduce the two public holidays we have this month.
Both happen to fall near the weekend this year, giving us two delightful three-day weekends!
- November 3rd (Mon) / Culture Day (Bunka no Hi)
- November 23rd (Sun) / Labor Thanksgiving Day (Kinrō Kansha no Hi) (November 24th (Mon) is a substitute holiday)
First, we will focus on Culture Day on the 3rd, detailing its origins and this year’s long weekend situation.
📅 What is Culture Day? The Date and Its Important Purpose
Let’s reconfirm what kind of day Culture Day is.
| Item | Details |
| Date | November 3rd every year (Fixed) |
| Purpose | To “love freedom and peace, and promote culture.” |
Culture Day was established based on the “Act on National Holidays,” with the aim of promoting peace and encouraging cultural activities.
📜 The Deep History Behind Why Culture Day is on November 3rd
The background of Culture Day falling on November 3rd is deeply connected to Japan’s major historical transition before and after the war.
This day was chosen in line with the principle of “respect for peace and culture” upheld by the Constitution.
1. Commemoration of the Promulgation of the Japanese Constitution
- On November 3rd, 1946 (Shōwa 21), the important Constitution of Japan was promulgated after the war.
- Based on the Constitution’s principles of “pacifism” and being a “cultural nation,” this day was established as a new public holiday two years later, in 1948 (Shōwa 23).
2. Renaming from the Original Holiday, “Meiji Setsu”
- Originally, November 3rd was the birthday of Emperor Meiji, and before the war, it was a public holiday called “Meiji Setsu.”
- As many Imperial-related holidays were abolished after the war, this historical date was preserved by changing its name, dedicated to wishing for Japan’s peace and cultural development.
🗓 The Holiday Date is Fixed! And this Year, Culture Day Brings a Welcome Three-Day Weekend!
Here is an important point about Culture Day.
Culture Day is not subject to the Happy Monday System; the date, November 3rd, is fixed every year. This is because the historical and commemorative significance of the promulgation of the Japanese Constitution, as mentioned above, is considered very important.
However, this year, November 3rd happens to fall on a Monday.
Therefore, companies and schools that are closed on weekends will enjoy a welcome three-day weekend! It looks like a perfect long weekend for cultural excursions.
🎖 Key Events and Fun Facts on Culture Day
Various events and ceremonies are held nationwide and regionally, centered around Culture Day.
Key Events (主な行事)
- Order of Culture Award Ceremony (Bunka Kunshō): Held at the Imperial Palace, the Emperor presents the Order of Culture to individuals who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as academia, arts, and science.
- Cultural and Arts Festivals (Bunka/Geijutsu-sai): Cultural festivals, art exhibitions, concerts, and lectures are held in schools and communities, bustling with cultural activities.
- Education and Culture Week (November 1st – 7th): During this week, which encompasses Culture Day, events related to education and culture are actively held nationwide.
🌤 Fun Fact: It’s a “Clear-Weather Special Day” (晴れの特異日)
Here’s an interesting tidbit! November 3rd is known to have a very high percentage of clear days, based on past weather data. This means it is often a pleasant day, perfect for outings and events.
💡 Other Trivia (その他の豆知識)
- Although it commemorates the promulgation of the new Constitution, May 3rd, the day the Constitution went into effect, is separately celebrated as “Constitution Memorial Day.”
- Recently, there has been a movement to change the name back to “Meiji Day” based on its origin as Emperor Meiji’s birthday, but for now, it remains “Culture Day.”
🎨 Ideas for How to Spend Culture Day
Culture Day is a day to “enrich the mind and intellect.” As it’s a three-day weekend this year, why not try some of these activities?
- Visit museums and art galleries
- Engage in reading or poetry creation
- Participate in local cultural events
- Experience traditional Japanese culture (e.g., Tea Ceremony, Calligraphy, Japanese musical instruments)
Culture Day is a great opportunity to appreciate Japan’s rich culture and history and reflect on the value of freedom and peace.
We hope you spend this special long weekend meaningfully!
You Might Also Like
・Unbelievable! Did You Know Japan Has 16 National Holidays?
・Autumnal Equinox Day: Honoring Ancestors and Embracing the Change of Seasons
| 【PR】 Your trip planning is almost complete! Complete your preparation by securing the one guide that guarantees confident interactions and a truly respectful experience in Japan. [Get the Kindle Edition Now on Amazon] |