Intro September in Japan brings a welcome break with two national holidays. One of the most important is Keiro no Hi, or Respect for the Aged Day.
This holiday is a time for appreciating and celebrating the elderly, and it’s a great opportunity for families to gather and spend time together.
Let’s dive into the history, meaning, and cultural significance of this unique Japanese holiday.
What is Keiro no Hi?
Keiro no Hi is a national holiday dedicated to “honoring the elderly who have long contributed to society and celebrating their longevity.”
It’s a day to show respect and gratitude to senior citizens and to celebrate their long lives.
- Cultural Significance:
- It’s a day to value the wisdom and experience of elders and to reaffirm the connection between generations.
- The holiday is not just for family members; it’s also a chance to show respect to elders in the community and those living in care facilities.
The History of Respect for the Aged Day
The origin of Keiro no Hi can be traced back to a small village in Hyogo Prefecture.
- The Beginning in Hyogo: The holiday began in 1947 in Nomadani Village (now part of Taka Town) as “Toshiyori no Hi” (Elderly Day). The village mayor, Masao Kadowaki, started the event on September 15th to show appreciation for the elderly and their wisdom, which he believed was essential for building the community. The date was chosen because it was the off-season for farming and the weather was pleasant.
- From “Toshiyori no Hi” to “Keiro no Hi”:
- 1950s: The movement spread throughout Hyogo Prefecture.
- 1954: The day became a nationally recognized event.
- 1964: The name was changed to “Rojin no Hi” (Elderly Persons’ Day).
- 1966: It was officially designated as a national holiday, renamed “Keiro no Hi” (Respect for the Aged Day).
- The “Happy Monday System”: Since 2003, Keiro no Hi has been celebrated on the third Monday of September as part of the Happy Monday System. This created a long weekend, making it easier for families to travel and celebrate together. Interestingly, September 15th is still recognized as “Rojin no Hi” under the Act for the Welfare of the Aged.
- Other Theories: There are other historical theories about why September 15th was chosen:
- Prince Shotoku Theory: Prince Shotoku established an institution for the elderly and sick in 593 on this date.
Japanese Longevity Celebrations
In Japan, specific ages are celebrated as milestones of longevity, each with a traditional color.
| Milestone | Age | Color | Meaning |
| Kanreki | 60 | Red | The completion of the Chinese zodiac cycle, symbolizing rebirth. |
| Koki | 70 | Purple | Inspired by a Chinese poet’s phrase “rare to live to seventy.” |
| Beiju | 88 | Gold / Yellow | The kanji for 88 (八十八) can be arranged to form the kanji for “rice” (米). |
| Hakuju | 99 | White | The kanji for 99 (九十九) is one stroke away from the kanji for “white” (白). |
| Hyakuju (Kiju) | 100 | Pink / White | Celebrating a full century of life. |
Passing on the Tradition
Keiro no Hi is a day to not only look back but also to look forward. By listening to the stories of our elders, their wisdom and life experiences are naturally passed down.
It is my hope that the spirit and cultural significance of this day will continue to be cherished and passed on to future generations.
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