What holidays are there in Japan? National Japanese holidays and festivals. Day of Honor for the Elderly

Japan is a country rich in holidays. Here almost every day there is some kind of special event. Holidays in Japan are accompanied by games, competitions, dancing, singing, processions, and performances.

Numerous holidays, according to their content and origin, can be divided into groups: national, state, religious, traditional.

Ancient agricultural festivals occupy a significant place in the Japanese calendar. Holidays associated with rice cultivation are the most colorful. A number of holidays of contemplation of nature gave rise to the originality of oriental aesthetics.

Many holidays are dedicated to children. Hina Matsuri is the most famous of them.

But the Japanese, who love fun, relaxation and rich feasts, could not get by with only state-legalized national holidays. They also have Matsuri. Matsuri represent various festive processions, chants, traditional dances, fireworks, etc. So every city has its own traditional holidays - matsuri.

Public holidays in Japan

Officially, there are 15 public holidays in Japan. National holidays in Japan include: New Year (January 1), Coming of Age Day (January 15), Founding Day (February 11), Vernal Equinox Day (March 21), Greenery Day (April 29), Constitution Day (May 3), Rest Day (May 4), Children's Day (May 5), Day of Honor for the Elderly (September 15), Autumnal Equinox Day (September 21), Sportsman's Day (October 10), Culture Day (November 3), Labor Day (November 23), Emperor Akihito's birthday (December 23).

In Japan, in addition to state ones, a large number of religious and traditional holidays are celebrated, and all kinds of local festivals are also held. Let's consider the most significant and vibrant holidays.

Hanami - cherry blossom festival

The main spring event in Japan is the blossoming of sakura, which the Japanese call hanami. This ancient Japanese tradition of viewing flowers dates back to the 7th century.

The Sakura Festival in Japan is not an official holiday, but for the Japanese it is very important and significant. A huge number of people visit and spend their time in parks, squares and alleys during cherry blossom days. Since the cherry blossom period is relatively short (about two weeks), it is admired both during the day and in the evening. And the evening inspection is especially popular.

The time of the first blossoms of the cherry blossoms growing in Yasukuni in the ancient Buddhist temple is considered to be the official starting point. Meteorological services immediately begin to notify how the very first pink flowers appear from the buds. The approximate time for the city of Tokyo and its environs is the end of March.

Ume (Japanese plum) is the very first to start this “procession” of flowers. Sakura begins to bloom after Uma.

Setsubun is the four special days in the Japanese calendar that separate spring, summer, autumn and winter. These days, the Japanese perform purification rituals. Spring Eve, the time when nature awakens, is the most important of the four holidays.

The Spring Festival is famous for its funny-shaped rituals. The main purpose of such rituals is to ensure prosperity for the next year and expel evil spirits. During the holiday, on the door of every house you can see a hanging sprig of osmanthus, famous for its pungent smell and thorns.

Sweet white beans are the main attributes of the holiday. Many purification rites are associated with them in Japan. First, the beans are heavily roasted over a fire, and then they are scattered throughout various rooms, especially in dark corners.

The cult of the genital organs as a symbol of offspring and fertility has existed since ancient times in many countries. Japanese Shintoism was no exception here. At the same time, the theme of the phallus in the modern era is perceived in Japan, unlike Europe, as a natural thing, devoid of any vulgarity.

Thus, throughout the country there are many temples where female and male organs are worshiped. Moreover, this procession is not hidden; on the contrary, it is carried out with the organization of mass festivals, which attract thousands of people. Kanayami is one such temple.

A fertility festival called Honen Matsuri is held annually in mid-March and is celebrated throughout the country. The Japanese (usually childless women and men) come out in procession holding wooden penises of various sizes in their hands, asking for good harvests, sexual strength and many children.

Shinto shrine maidens open mass ceremonies with the dance of Young Miko.

On this day, the Japanese drink a lot of sake, as this drink is considered a symbol of the harvest. Participants buy various souvenirs and food in the shape of phalluses.

The Kanto Matsuri Festival is one of the most vibrant and spectacular festivals in Japan. It is celebrated annually from August 4 to 7 in the northeast of the country in the city of Tohoku. This tradition originated during the Edo era (mid-18th century). Then the peasants suffered from disease and hunger. And Kanto Matsuri was that holiday when people asked for a good harvest, long life and health. Special designs were made for the holiday: many lanterns were hung on bamboo branches. These designs had their own name - Kanto. A sprouted rice sprout symbolized each Kanto.

In the 19th century, the lantern festival gained great popularity. So, processions with lanterns began to take place on the streets of the city. The culmination of the holiday was that each participant carrying Kanto tried to lift it up as high as possible. And today, a very important role is played not by how participants can raise their Kanto quickly and high, but by how they will do it.

Usually the lantern festival begins when evening falls in the city. Thousands of people come out of their homes to admire the solemn procession. Men carrying huge Kanto, to the sounds of music and screams of spectators, demonstrate extraordinary skills of dexterity and balance: they climb onto each other’s shoulders, while not letting go of the Kanto from their hands, put it on their foreheads, throw poles from their hands to their hips, and much more. The festival participants really work wonders.

The placement of the flashlights is very important for maintaining balance. Therefore, symmetry must always be maintained in the design. The lanterns depict the professions of the Kanto owner, as well as symbols of the area.

Usually about three thousand people take part in the festive procession, carrying 200 large Shiites in their hands.

One of the most ancient and important holidays in Japan is the Chrysanthemum Festival, which is celebrated in the 9th lunar month. It was the ninth lunar month in the traditional Japanese calendar that was called the month of chrysanthemums.

The chrysanthemum flower occupies a special place in the life of the Japanese. The chrysanthemum is the symbol of the Japanese imperial house. The image of this flower can be seen on the covers of Japanese foreign passports, on the attributes of politicians, on the premises of parliament, in diplomatic institutions, on coins, and on the imperial seal. This flower is also considered a symbol of longevity.

During the Chrysanthemum Festival, Japanese florists create huge dolls from live chrysanthemums. These are mainly characters from literary works, legendary heroes and real historical figures.

Also on this day, various dishes and drinks are prepared from chrysanthemums: wine, tinctures, salads, flower-shaped sweets and much more.

One of the main holidays in Japan is the Hina Matsuri or Doll Festival. It is celebrated on March 3. The exhibition lasts about a month.

Several different traditions underlie the celebration of Girls' Day. So, one of them belongs to the Hean era. On this day, in noble families, special prayers were performed by spellcasters, which were aimed at ensuring that all the misfortunes and troubles of people were transferred to paper dolls. After such rituals, paper dolls were allowed to float on the sea or river. The Japanese called these dolls Nagashi-bina.

Initially, the holiday was celebrated among the military class and at court. But in a fairly short period of time it spread among the people. And in the 18th century the holiday was recognized as national. At this time, a new custom was added, which was as follows: in those houses where the girls lived, exhibitions of richly dressed dolls were held, which depicted the customs of life in the imperial palace.

And this custom has been preserved to this day. But now these are not paper dolls, but real masterpieces of art, dressed in luxurious silk clothes and made of ceramics.

Typically, Hina dolls are not intended for everyday play. They are displayed on a special shelf in the central room of the house, and they are simply admired. Some doll sets are very expensive and can be passed down in a family from one generation to the next.

Usually a new set of dolls is bought when a girl is born into the family. The set is then supplemented with dolls donated by their relatives and friends.

As a rule, this set should include at least 15 dolls, which are dressed in multi-layered ancient clothes made of red material. Dolls depicting the empress and emperor in silk antique ceremonial attire are the most valuable and richly decorated.

There is also a belief that dolls should not be displayed for a long time, otherwise the desired hour of marriage will be delayed. Therefore, all items are packed and stored until the next exhibition. By March 3, the rooms where doll exhibitions take place are also decorated. Balls made of artificial tangerine and cherry blossoms are suspended from the ceiling. Each ball is also decorated with hanging silk ribbons.

On this day, girls dressed in elegant kimonos visit each other, give gifts, admire dolls, and treat each other to special sweets. This is how girls, in a relaxed playful way, learn the rules of good manners, the ability to take care of valuable things, concepts of character traits, and so on.

Japan is a country of ancient traditions and complex history. While many countries are trying to abandon their customs, the Land of the Rising Sun honors ancient holidays and watches the cherry blossoms from year to year.

The Japanese holiday calendar consists of fifteen official dates. During the period of Shukujitsu, which means “holiday”, the Japanese most often relax. However, the official holiday calendar is diluted with many more events.

As you know, Japan consists of dozens of prefectures. Each of them has its own traditional holidays. But there are still Japanese holidays that are celebrated throughout the country.

Sakura blossom

The cherry blossom festival in Japan is one of the most ancient and revered. The date of celebration is different every year. The official day the trees begin to bloom is the appearance of the first cherry blossom at the Yasukuni Buddhist Temple located in Tokyo. On this day, meteorological services broadcast throughout the country a message that flowering has begun.

However, the cherry blossom festival in Japan is not an official event. Weekends and the like are not defined for this period, but this does not prevent the Japanese themselves and tourists from stopping and admiring the beautiful trees.

New Year

O-shogatsu - that’s what it’s called. During the New Year holidays, it is customary to decorate houses with willow and bamboo branches.

For more than a millennium, the onset of the New Year has been marked by one hundred and eight bells ringing in Buddhist temples. Each of them symbolizes the destructive habits of humanity, driven away by sacred sounds.

After the final blow, almost all Japanese leave their homes and go to nearby temples to pray and make a wish.

Coming of Age Day

National holidays in Japan include coming of age. On February 12th, prefectural authorities hold parties for those who have just turned twenty.

On the eve of the holiday, everyone who has reached the age of majority in the last year receives a special one. However, those who evade the residence tax will not be invited to the celebration.

These Japanese holidays only became an official celebration in 1948. Before this, young people were congratulated in a narrow family circle or in churches.

Setsubun

Ancient Japanese holidays have an interesting history, and Setsubun is no exception. Buddhism is the belief that every object and thing has a spiritual embodiment. Likewise, in Setsubun, the exorcism of evil spirits, or Mame-maki, is carried out in all houses.

In addition to apartments and houses, evil spirits are also expelled from churches. This event attracts many spectators. At the end of the ritual, people dressed as devils run out of the temple, symbolizing purification.

State Foundation Day

Japan's national holidays in February include Founding Day. In 1967, the eleventh of February became an official holiday.

The Jimma holiday was introduced not for the Japanese, but for world leaders. By this the government decided to show that power in Japan was in the hands of the Emperor. However, for the people of the country, it does not matter what political significance this day has. Most Japanese are patriotic, so Jimma is important to them. The celebration is spent with family, friends and winter sports.

Girls' holiday

The country's national holidays also include Hina Matsuri, also known as Girls' Day in Japan. The first month of spring in the Land of the Rising Sun is purely feminine. In addition to March 8, peach blossoms and Doll Day are celebrated. But only the girls' day became a national day.

The first mention of this day dates back to the eighth century and the Heian era. On the third of March, all the girls dress up in traditional clothes - kimono. They visit friends' houses, congratulate other girls and receive gifts themselves.

Day of spring equinox

The twentieth of March is also included in Japan's official holidays. or Higan, is important to all Japanese. This holiday marks the beginning. On its eve, Japanese residents thoroughly clean their homes, put their home altars in order, and remember the dead. Translated from Japanese, “Higan” is the world where the dead have gone.

The dishes on this day do not contain meat products. Ritual dishes are strictly vegetarian - a tribute to the fact that, according to Buddhism, you cannot eat the meat of the dead.

Showa Day

The twenty-ninth of April is the birthday of Emperor Hirohito, who ruled the country for the last century. Over time, he was awarded the title of Showa. But the Japanese, who revere their history, decided not to forget an important figure for the country and perpetuated his memory by creating a national holiday.

However, April is not only about celebrations for the birth of Emperor Hirohito. This month Kyoto hosts open days and the residence of the current Emperor. Many Japanese residents come to admire the grandeur of ancient architecture.

Constitution day

Since 1948, the third of May has been an official holiday, celebrating Constitution Day.

After defeat in World War II, the Japanese authorities were forced to change the country and accept the conditions of the victorious countries. Thus, in 1947, the sovereignty of the Japanese inhabitants was recognized, the country became parliamentary, and the great Emperor became a “symbol.”

Japanese holidays and traditions often date back to ancient times, but Constitution Day is relatively new and allowed Japan to develop after defeat and become one of the most powerful countries in the world.

Green Day

Another holiday associated with the legendary Emperor Showa was Greenery Day in Japan. On the Fourth of May, the Japanese celebrate a “natural” holiday. This event is associated with the former Emperor's love for green spaces and trees. During Emperor Showa's travels around the country, his subjects planted new trees in the villages.

However, for the Japanese themselves, this is one of the holidays whose history they do not delve into. So, until 2007, Greenery Day was not celebrated on the fourth of May; the holiday did not have an exact date at all.

Children's Day

Children's Day, or the so-called Boys' Day in Japan, is celebrated on May 5th. All over the country, flags with koi nobori - carp - are flying.

According to ancient legend, a koi carp living in a deep, swampy pond was able to overcome all obstacles and cross the Dragon Whirlpool Falls. After that, he changed: a simple carp became a dragon and ascended to the distant skies.

It is for its strength and resilience that the image of a carp is used in celebration. So the boy must follow the example of the fish and turn into a real man.

Mothers Day

Traditional Japanese holidays include Mother's Day. On the tenth of May, every Japanese family congratulates their mothers. Although in recent years this holiday has become just a way to sell more gifts for dear mothers.

A week before the holiday, so-called gifts for mothers are put up for sale in Japan: aprons, bags, dresses, wallets, cosmetics, perfumes, etc. Advertisements for brands offering discounts and gifts are shown on television.

But regardless of this, all Japanese people revere their mothers. They believe that mothers are the center of every family and the entire society as a whole.

Tanabata

The Tanabata Festival (“Seven Evenings”) has a history of more than a thousand years. The celebration begins on the seventh of July. The country is decorated with bamboo branches prepared especially for the celebration.

According to legend, the king of heaven, Tenko, had a daughter, Orihime. She spun clothes of extraordinary beauty. Her products were so beautiful that the father forced his daughter to work every day. But due to constant work, the girl could not meet and fall in love with anyone. Tenko, wanting to make his daughter happier, introduced her to the shepherd Hikoboshi.

The young people fell in love at first sight and soon got married. They spent a lot of time on each other, and so soon the cows scattered along the banks of the Heavenly River, and Orihime stopped spinning.

Tenko got angry and decided to punish them. He separated them on opposite sides of the sky. But Orihime begged her father to have mercy and let her see her husband. Once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month, when Altair and Vega intersect, Orihime and Hikoboshi can see each other.

Obon

From the thirteenth to the fifteenth of August, a holiday is held throughout Japan during which the memory of the dead is honored. The three-day period obliges the Japanese to visit the graves of deceased family members.

When darkness falls, people release paper lanterns to symbolize the souls of the dead. According to Buddhism, lanterns will help souls find their way home.

Although Obon is not an official holiday, almost all offices and companies close for this period. Every Japanese tries to visit their home and remember the memory of departed family members.

Sea Day

Surrounded on all sides by seas and oceans, Japan celebrates a national holiday on July 20th: Sea Day.

In the nineties of the last century, residents of the Land of the Rising Sun began to realize the real value of the water surface off the coast of Japan. They began to actively advocate for the inclusion of Sea Day in the list of official holidays. The result was achieved quite quickly. For the first time, Sea Day was celebrated in nineteen ninety-six.

Day of Honor for the Elderly

Since 1947, September twenty-first has become the Day of Honoring the Elderly. The idea to promote it as a national holiday was proposed by Maso Kadowaki, who was in charge of Hyogo Prefecture. At first, a small part of Japan joined the celebrations, but since 1950 this day has become increasingly popular.

Until 2007, the Day of Honoring the Elderly was celebrated on the fifteenth of February.

Autumn equinox day

And again Higan. The autumn equinox holiday is celebrated on the twenty-third of September. The dishes are again vegetarian: Buddhist faith prohibits eating the meat of killed creatures.

In the Buddhist faith, Higan, both spring and autumn, carries an ancient meaning. Regardless of the time and situation in the country, the Japanese always honor the memory of the deceased.

sake day

Holidays in Japan in October begin on the first of October - Sake Day.

Sake is the national alcoholic drink of Japan. The process of preparing it is long and difficult, even taking into account the automation of the process. Sake is made from rice, and the resulting drink contains from thirteen to sixteen percent alcohol.

Sake is traditionally poured into choko, forty-milliliter clay cups. The bottle has a volume of one g, which is equivalent to 180 milliliters.

The Japanese try to adhere to the rules when drinking sake. Drink easily and with a smile. Take your time and maintain your individual rhythm. Know your norm and snack.

Culture Day

On November 3rd, the Japanese celebrate National Culture Day. It lasts for a week, during which time students have almost no classes. Senior students tell campus guests about their achievements and life at the university.

But the celebration takes place not only in educational institutions. Girls and women dressed in traditional Japanese outfits walk through cities and historically important parts of the country.

Emperor's Birthday

The emperors of Japan, active and deceased, are significant figures. People revere their rulers even after 1947, when they became just a symbol of the nation.

On the twenty-third of December, the birthday of Emperor Akihito, who has already passed the milestone of eighty years, is celebrated throughout Japan. is the son of Emperor Showa. He was crowned on the twelfth of November 1990. Every year, more than ten thousand people gather at the Emperor's palace in Kyoto and greet him, wishing him further prosperity.

It is worth noting that in Japan, the Emperor's Birthday has become a national holiday for several centuries.

Interesting and mysterious eastern country Japan. Holidays and traditions, gods and Emperors. Japan is a place where every object is endowed with a soul, where the goddesses Amaterasu and Tsukuyomi rule the sky. A country of Buddhism and ancient customs.

It can be difficult for European countries to understand the Japanese vision of the world, but one cannot help but agree that their history and celebrations are breathtaking.

Japan has always stood out from the list of countries that are characterized by high rates of economic development. This eastern state successfully fights any crises and disasters. This happens, among other things, thanks to the hard work and diligence of its citizens. Purposefulness, ideology and responsibility are brought up in Japan from a very early age. It is no coincidence that the management systems developed in this country are recognized throughout the world as the most effective, which is why they are used as a standard in many large enterprises.

Features of employment

Immigrants who come to Japan have to become accustomed to the high demands of employers and a unique national mentality. For those who do not want to do this, the company quickly finds a replacement.

The Japanese most often take jobs for life. That is, when they come to the enterprise as a young person, they are on its staff until their retirement. If you want to find a job in another company, the new employer will take into account the time of the previous continuous contract.

Japan is considered a country that is quite closed to immigrants. After all, when applying for a high-paying, prestigious job, you will need not only to be a true professional, but also to have a fairly high level of knowledge of the Japanese language. But, of course, when considering candidates for a vacant position, preference will always be given to the indigenous residents of the country. In order to get a job in Japan, you will need to prove your extraordinary abilities. And for this, documents confirming the high level will clearly not be enough. It is recommended to prepare in advance the most striking independently created projects, translating them into Japanese, so that they can be presented.

Rating of professions

What specialists does the labor market of the Land of the Rising Sun need today? The following can find work in Japan without much effort:

1. IT specialists. It is quite easy to explain the demand for such professions in a country that is a leader in the development of electronic technologies. However, an immigrant should prepare in advance for great competition. The fact is that Japan has many of its own professionals. The most popular specialties in this category are project managers and developers.
2. Designers and architects. It is enough for good specialists from this field to get a job in Japanese companies. Moreover, employers are happy to attract immigrant professionals for cooperation. It is worth noting that in this regard, this is one of the few categories of specialists that deserve such a favorable attitude.
3. Trade professionals. The most popular specialty in this category is sales managers. Japanese companies and sales representatives, freight forwarders and other workers in this field are invited. However, it is worth keeping in mind that to fill a vacancy you will need not only work experience in your specialty, but also excellent command of the Japanese language.
4. Management personnel. Such employees form the backbone of Japanese business. The fact is that obtaining evolutionary results of economic development is impossible without proper planning of workers’ time and effort. In this regard, Japanese employers highly value specialists in personnel selection, planning and management. However, it is worth keeping in mind that this area is still easier for the indigenous residents of the country to navigate. But at the same time, foreign experience in implementing modern management systems may also be of interest to the employer.
5. Marketing and PR specialists. Advertising is the engine of progress. The Japanese do not neglect this rule either. In addition to employees managing projects, managers working in this area are in demand in the country. However, only a person who, in addition to experience, is fluent in Japanese will be able to work in the advertising field.
6. Electronics engineers. For Japanese employers, specialists who are able to work in the production of household appliances, road vehicles, shipbuilding and instrument making are of particular value.
7. Production personnel. Many large Japanese companies operating in the food and pharmaceutical industries, machine tools and mechanical engineering need such specialists. So far, in this country, full automation of production is a prospect for the future. That is why immigrants will always be able to find work for themselves in some factory. Here, as a rule, technicians and operators are required for automated production lines. However, despite the fact that specialists in this category can quite successfully find employment in the country, it is necessary to clarify the requirements that the employer places on candidates. They are often required to have a technical education diploma.
8. Consultants and teachers. These specialists are also in demand in the state. Here you can even get a job as a Russian language teacher. But lately there have been quite a lot of people applying for such a vacancy, so you have to wait for a suitable place for years. English teachers can get a job in Japan without any problems. However, if their place of work is educational institutions, then the specialist will be required to have a teaching license.
9. Accountants and financiers. No organization can do without these workers. This is why they are also included in the category of the most in-demand professions in Japan. But knowledge of the language is a prerequisite for people who decide to apply for such a vacancy.
10. Pharmacists and healthcare workers. This category of specialists in Japan is considered one of the most privileged. Most clinics in the country are private. Thanks to this, the salary in Japan for a medical worker is approaching 760 thousand yen per month. Converted to dollars, this amount will be 6,400. However, it is almost impossible for an immigrant to get a job as a doctor in this country. The fact is that diplomas from other countries confirming receipt of this profession are not valued in Japan. To obtain permission to work as a doctor, you will need to graduate from a medical school directly in this country.

Work mentality

Every resident of Japan certainly follows the traditions that have developed in the country over many centuries. If we consider the attitude of the country's indigenous population to work, it can be noted that it has certain qualities. Among them are politeness and loyalty, personal responsibility, as well as the ability to operate effectively within a certain work team.

The main goal of the Japanese is to benefit the company, while working as a kind of cog in one coherent large mechanism. Individuality is not welcomed in this country. Those loners who are guided by the principle “my house is on the edge” have no chance of success. Highly educated, but at the same time ambitious people are less valuable for management than those who, although not as educated, are patient and open to compromise. Why does this happen? Yes, simply because the Japanese do not believe that money can be given to people in simple ways. They will not respect someone who does not work hard.

By the way, many Europeans complain that their lives are practically spent at work. But is it? How long are the working hours in Japan? This should be clarified in advance by anyone who has decided to take one of the vacancies in this country.

Start of the working day

Everyday life for Japanese residents begins with a trip. They rush to their place of work, usually using public transport. Most residents of this state refuse to use a car. They do this in order to save money. After all, maintaining a personal car will cost them about 10 thousand dollars. And this is only in one month! And is it worth using a personal car in a country that has the best public transport system on our planet?

However, in large cities, the Japanese pay for such savings with tedious commutes to work in cars that are 200% full relative to their design capacity. Nevertheless, such a morning ritual does not at all cause irritation among the indigenous inhabitants of the country, which they would take out on a neighbor.

Coming to work

The Japanese begin with a peculiar ritual. It includes not only greeting superiors and colleagues. The ritual of starting the day includes employees chanting various inspiring sayings and slogans together. Only after this can you begin to perform production tasks.

What time does the working day start in Japan? Officially, most companies in the country have the same schedule. It stipulates that the working day starts at 9 a.m. and ends at 6 p.m. However, most Japanese people arrive at their workplace at least half an hour earlier. It is believed that an employee needs time to get ready for work.

Currently, many corporations have introduced a system of temporary cards. What is it? A special card is issued for each employee. It must be lowered into the device installed in front of the entrance when arriving at work and when leaving it. The card reflects the time that affects wages in Japan. Some companies deduct one hour of work for being 1 minute late. There are corporations where in this case the employee will not be given a salary for the whole day.

Work days

How long is a working day in Japan? Officially 8 o'clock. The country also provides for a lunch break. Its duration is 1 hour. Thus, the standard work contract specifies 40 hours per week.

However, working hours in Japan tend to exceed these limits. This is influenced by another tradition of the country's inhabitants. The fact is that climbing the career ladder is of great importance to them. And climbing these steps, as a rule, does not depend at all on the qualifications and intelligence of the employee, but on the amount of time during which he does not leave his chair. It is because of this that the length of the working day in Japan is far from the official one. Employees often stay late to complete tasks in the evenings. In this regard, the working day in Japan sometimes reaches 12 hours. Moreover, the country's residents do this mainly on their own initiative. In addition, despite the fact that the work week in Japan lasts only five days, employees also come to the company on Saturdays. And this is also most often their own desire.

A little history

The beginning of the increase in the average working day in Japan was facilitated by the rather low wages that the country's population received in the 1970s. Employees did everything to increase their earnings. That is why they sought to get extra money for overtime hours. This trend continued into the 1980s. And this despite the fact that a period came when Japan entered the list of the most highly developed economic countries, taking second place there. Residents of the country did not change the established tradition in the late 1990s. At this time, the working hours in Japan were long due to the crisis. In order to successfully overcome it, companies began to carry out internal reforms, rebuilding their organizational systems. At the same time, workers stayed late at work, trying not to get laid off. At the same time, companies began to hire temporary employees working without any guarantees or bonuses. Such a step made the existence of people on the staff even more unbearable.

Today, no one is embarrassed by a working day of 12 hours or more. As a rule, no one forces people to stay late in the evenings, but they believe that they are obliged to do so.

Karoshi

It is not uncommon for workers in Japan to remain at their jobs for fear of being thought of as specialists who cannot keep up with their duties. Moreover, when solving any production problem, a resident of this country strives to be a necessary link in one common chain of the corporation. The main thing for him is to work in such a way that the working group of which he is a member completes the task assigned to it within the minimum time and in an optimal manner. This is one of the reasons for the appearance of overtime. In addition, each employee, showing solidarity with his colleagues, strives to provide them with all possible assistance, which, in his opinion, they really need. This is how overtime works in Japanese companies, which is currently not paid.

Such a busy schedule leads to the fact that the country often experiences deaths due to overwork or suicide. And all this happens right in the workplace. A similar phenomenon in Japan even got its own name - “karoshi”; it is considered the official reason for a person’s death.

Unusual tradition

The stressful working conditions in Japan require some relaxation. This led to the emergence of an unusual tradition, which in the country is called “inemuri”. It represents sleep or a kind of quiet hour while working. During this time, the person continues to remain in an upright position. In this case, sleep for the Japanese is not only a sign of hard work. It indicates the employee’s hard work and dedication.

However, those who have just got a job should not try to fall asleep on it. Inemuri is a privilege of the authorities. An employee has no right to sleep in front of a more qualified colleague. The only exception is processing that takes place after the end of the official working day. At this time, a person can sleep for 20 minutes, but with the condition that he will continue intensive work after waking up.

Vacations

As you can see, the Japanese work literally to their limits. Their daily routine and work system seem simply inhuman to Europeans. After reading these facts, the question immediately arises: “Is there a vacation in Japan?” Officially yes. According to the current legislation in the country, it lasts 10 days and must be provided once throughout the year. However, having studied the Japanese mentality, one can understand that the Japanese will not rest for so long. And indeed it is. It is not customary for residents of the country to take full advantage of their vacation. Existing traditions do not allow them to do this. In the culture of the country, it is believed that by using rest days, a person thereby indicates that he is lazy and does not support the cause of the entire team.

The Japanese compensate for their vacation with national holidays, of which there are quite a few in the country.

Wage level

What is the remuneration for work in Japan? Its level will directly depend on the employee’s position and profession. Thus, an immigrant who occupies one of the vacant positions must initially count on a salary that is lower than that of the native population. It can range from $1,400 to $1,800 over the course of a month. Over time, a skilled worker will earn more. His salary will average $2,650.

Lawyers, attorneys, pilots and doctors with extensive experience receive from 10 to 12 thousand dollars in Japan. Even the most highly developed European countries cannot boast of such a monthly salary.

Retirement

Japan's social security system has been in place since 1942. It allows people to retire when they reach age 65. This rule applies to both sexes.

Pensions in Japan are paid from the Social Security Fund. Today, its assets reach 170 trillion yen.

The average social pension in Japan is $700. Professional wages are calculated based on the system in which the person worked. Thus, civil servants receive, while retired, 2/5 of their previous salary. For other employees, the amount of payments is determined based on the amount they have accumulated. It consists of monthly deductions from salary (5%). The employer also makes a contribution to the savings fund of a particular person. The company also makes monthly contributions to its employee’s pension fund.

In this article you will find Japanese national holidays and some of the most important annual national events. In addition, annual festivals are also listed here.

Like us, if a national holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also considered a holiday. Likewise, a day that falls between two national holidays becomes a holiday.

Shops, restaurants and tourist , as a rule, are open on national holidays, except New Year's.

Japanese holidays in January

January 1 (national holiday) - (shogatsu). This is the most important holiday in Japan. Although only January 1st is designated as a national holiday, many businesses remain closed until January 3rd.

Second Monday of January (national holiday) - Coming of Age Day in Japan (seijin no hi). This holiday is dedicated to those Japanese men and women who have recently entered adulthood (who have turned 20) and have become a full member of society.

Japanese holidays in February

February 3 - Beginning of Spring (Setsubun). is not a national holiday, but is celebrated in temples throughout the country.

February 11 (national holiday) - (kenkoku kinenbi). According to the oldest Japanese chronicles, on this day in 660 BC. The first Japanese emperor was crowned.

The 14th of February - women give chocolate to men on Valentine's Day. This is not a national holiday, but borrowed from Western countries.

Japan Holidays in March

March 3 - (hina matsuri). On this day, families with girls wish their daughters a successful and happy life. The dolls are displayed prominently in the house along with the peach flowers.

The opposite of Valentine's Day: Men give cakes or chocolates to women. This is not a national holiday.

March 20 or 21 (national holiday) - Vernal Equinox Day (shunbun no hi). During the week (ohigan - 3 days before and 3 days after the vernal equinox), it is customary to visit the graves of deceased relatives.

Japan Holidays in April

April 29-May 5 - Golden Week. Along with New Year and Obon, Golden Week is one of the main holidays in Japan, as it includes four holidays during the week (Showa Day, Constitution Day, Greenery Day, Children's Day).

April 29 (national holiday) - Showa Day (Showa no hi). Birthday of the previous Emperor Showa, who died in 1989. Until 2007, April 29 was known as Green Day (now celebrated on May 4). Showa Day is part of Golden Week.

Japanese holidays in May

May 3 (national holiday) - Constitution Day (kenpo kinenbi). The national holiday celebrates the anniversary of the adoption of the new constitution, which was adopted after World War II on May 3, 1947.

May 4 (national holiday) - Green Day (Nature's Spring Awakening Day) (midori no hi). Until 2006, Greenery Day was celebrated on April 29, the birthday of Emperor Seva, thanks to the emperor's love for plants and nature.

May 13 - Mother's Day. On this day, many children buy flowers for their mother. According to Japanese flower meanings, red carnations are considered the best gift for mom. In schools across Japan, children draw pictures of their mother on this day.

Japan Holidays in June

There are no holidays in Japan in June as it is the rainy season and wedding season.

Japan Holidays in July

July 7 - Star Festival (tanabata). - This is a traditional Japanese holiday and is not a public holiday.

Third Monday of July (national holiday) - Sea Day (umi no hi). Newly introduced national holiday. This day marks the return of Emperor Meiji from a boat trip to Hokkaido in 1876.

Japan Holidays in August

August 11 (national holiday) - Mountain Day (yama no hi). Introduced in 2016, this national holiday is dedicated to the mountains.

Japan Holidays in September

Third Monday of September (national holiday) - Day of Honoring the Elderly (keiro no hi). On this national holiday, it is customary to show respect for the elderly and longevity. The holiday appeared in 1966.

September 23 (national holiday) - Autumn equinox day (shubun-no-hi). During the week (ohigan) it is customary to visit the graves of deceased relatives.

Japan Holidays in October

Second Monday of October (national holiday) - Health and Sports Day (taiiku no hi). On that day in 1964, the Tokyo Olympics opened.

October 31st – Halloween. In recent years, the popularity has increased sharply. In Tokyo, an informal gathering of people in costumes takes place in the Shibuya area.

Japan Holidays in November

November 3 (national holiday) - Culture Day (bunka no hi). Day to promote culture and love for freedom and peace. On Culture Day, schools and other government institutions reward selected individuals for their special cultural achievements.

November 15 - Seven-five-three (shichi-go-san). It is a holiday for girls aged three and seven, and boys aged three to five. On this day, children dressed in special kimonos go with their parents to the temple, where they pray for their good health.

November 23 (national holiday) - Thanksgiving for Labor (Labor Day) (kinro kansha no hi). National holiday of honoring labor.

Japanese holidays in December

December 23 (national holiday) - Emperor's Birthday (tenno no tanjobi). The birthday of the current Emperor Akihito is a national holiday. When the emperor changes, the national holiday will change to the new emperor's birthday.

December 24-25 - Christmas. is not a national holiday, but shopping centers and streets are decorated a week before Christmas. Many Japanese follow Christmas traditions such as Christmas cake and Christmas dinner.

• Added: 02/21/2018
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There are currently 14 public holidays (weekends) in Japan and many more traditional, religious and local holidays and festivals. Some of them arose quite recently, some have been celebrated for a thousand years.

Note that it is not customary to congratulate most holidays in Japan - they are simply celebrated. Japanese people usually congratulate each other on important events in life - happy birthday, enrollment in high school, admission to college, the birth of a child.

It is customary to give gifts on all “personal” occasions. Gifts are also given at the end of the year ( oseibo) and in the middle of summer, during the Bon holiday ( otyugen). Usually, various useful things are given as gifts: soap, towels, food, alcohol, exotic fruits. At the same time, it is not customary to make a gift too “personal”, indicating both excellent knowledge of the life of the recipient and the personality of the donor.

What is most valued is not the gift itself, but its appearance - the beautiful packaging. Gifts are never unwrapped in the presence of the giver, so as not to inadvertently offend him. It is also not customary to refuse gifts.

January

January 1 - New Year ( Ganjitsu), a public holiday and one of the most magnificent celebrations throughout the year. The celebration continues from December 30 to January 3. On New Year's night a prayer is held Hatsu-mode, during which people pray for happiness in the coming year. Japanese people exchange greeting cards and give each other gifts.

No one usually sleeps on the night of January 1st, so the first sleep of the new year falls on January 2nd. Hatsu-yume(“the first dream of the year”) is considered prophetic and is seen as a fortune teller about good luck for the whole year. The best dreams are Mount Fuji or wealth.

A two-day marathon relay is held on January 2 and 3 "Ekiden"(the name comes from an ancient courier communication system) between the cities of Tokyo and Hakone (round trip - 216.4 km, divided into 10 stages). It has been held since 1917 in honor of the move of the imperial court from Kyoto to Tokyo in 1867 and is one of the most important events in the sports life of Japan.

On January 7, Japanese families prepare rice porridge with the “seven spring herbs” ( Haru no Nanakusa). The composition of these herbs depends on the area. It is believed that this porridge fills the body with strength for the whole year.

On January 11, the Japanese break up the already dried decorative rice balls left over from the New Year - mochi(ritual Kagami-biraki). Usually two such koloboks are kept in the family altar during all holidays. From their remains they make soup and eat it, dedicating the meal to the deities. It is important to break the bun, and not to cut it (this would be a bad sign).

On the second Monday of January (until 2000 - January 15) Coming of Age Day is celebrated ( Seijin no hi). This is a public holiday for everyone who turned 20 in the past year. From this age, Japanese people have the legal right to vote, smoke and drink alcohol. Until 1876, adulthood was 15 for boys and 13 for girls.

Throughout January, Japanese people worship and pray to the Seven Gods of Fortune.

February

February 3rd or 4th is celebrated Setsubun(New Year's Eve according to the old calendar). On the night of Setsubun, a ceremony is held in the houses Mame-maki("throwing beans"). Children fill cups with beans and scatter them around the rooms, reciting spells to scare away demons - They. At the end of the ceremony, everyone eats as many beans as they are old. This ritual drives away demons and guarantees health throughout the year.

Chinese New Year is celebrated on February 4th or 5th Rissyun- The beginning of spring. From this day on, field work begins in Japan.

February 11 is a public holiday, Day of the Foundation of the State ( Kigen-setsu). It was established in 1873 to commemorate the coronation of Emperor Jimmu. The holiday was canceled after World War II and restored in 1966.

February 14 is Valentine's Day. In Japan, on this day, girls and women give chocolates to their lovers - honmei, and chocolates to your friends and colleagues - weights. The type of chocolate is written on the greeting card. This holiday has been celebrated with chocolate since 1958.

March

March 3 - Puppet Festival ( Hina Matsuri). This is a holiday for little girls. On this day, small exhibitions of dolls dressed in Heian period clothing are held in homes. If these dolls are not removed after the end of the holiday, then the daughters will not get married for a long time. Dolls are usually either hidden in a closet or thrown into the river and they pray that the dolls will bear all the troubles that may befall the girls.

March 14 - White Day. On this day, men give women white chocolate as a thank you for their Valentine's Day gifts. The holiday has been celebrated since 1965.

March 20 or 21 - Vernal Equinox Day ( Shumbun no hi). The weekly period starting three days before the vernal equinox is called Higan. At this time, the Japanese visit the graves of their ancestors. From this day on, sakura begins to bloom in southern Japan.

Major Japanese children's animation festivals begin in March.

April

April 8 - Buddha's Birthday ( Kambutsu-e) or Flower Festival ( Hana matsuri). This is a Buddhist holiday, on this day Buddhist temples are decorated with flowers, and special flower tea is distributed to parishioners. amatya. It is believed to have magical powers; various amulets are written with it. This tea is also poured on Buddha statues. According to legend, immediately after birth, nine heavenly dragons sprinkled water on the baby’s head. This legend is reproduced by the ritual. Flowers symbolize the garden Lumbini, in which the Enlightened One was born.

April 29 - Green Day ( Midori no hi). This is a national holiday of love for nature. Until 1988, it was celebrated as the Emperor's Birthday Showa. After the emperor's death in 1989, it was renamed Green Day because the late emperor was very fond of nature. On this day, trees are planted throughout Japan. The Golden Week holidays begin on April 29.

Throughout March, April and May, the Japanese organize hanami- admiring the cherry blossoms. To do this, they usually go out of town for picnics.

May

From April 29 to May 5, a week of public holidays under the general name “Golden Week” takes place in Japan. May 1 - May Day. May 3 - Constitution Day ( Campokinambi), which has been celebrated since 1947. May 4 has also been declared a public holiday to avoid disrupting the week. ^_^ "Golden Week" is considered an ideal time for vacations - Japan has the best weather at this time.

May 5 is a national holiday, Children's Day ( Kodomo no hi). Previously, it was a holiday only for boys. On this day, families with boys hang carp-shaped wind pennants outside ( koinobori). Carp is considered a symbol of courage, strength and success because it can swim against the current.

The second Sunday in May is Mother's Day. The Japanese borrowed this holiday from the Americans and began celebrating it in 1913 (with a break for the war). On this day, children give their mothers gifts and flowers and help them with the housework.

June

June 4 is the Day against Caries. During the week, dentists visit schools and talk about the dangers of tooth decay and how to brush your teeth properly.

The third Sunday in June is Fathers Day. Like Mother's Day, this holiday came from the USA. On this day, children give gifts to their fathers, usually ties, wallets, umbrellas and so on. Also, some schools organize classes on this day so that fathers (who work on weekdays) can come to school and watch how their children study.

From early June to mid-July in Japan is the summer rainy season ( Tsuyu).

July

July 1 - opening of the climbing season on Mount Fuji ( Yamabiraki). There is a post office at the top of the mountain, and anyone can send a letter from it to prove to their friends that they really have been to the top of Fuji.

July 7th is a holiday Tanabata or Festival of Stars. According to legend, on this night the stars of the Shepherd (Altair) and the Spinner (Vega), usually separated by the Milky Way, meet. At night, the Japanese make wishes, write them on narrow strips of paper and tie them to bamboo stems. In some areas of the country this holiday is celebrated on August 7th.

July 20 - Sea Day ( Umi no hi). It was only declared a public holiday in 1996, but has been celebrated since 1941 to commemorate the return of the Emperor Meiji to the port of Yokohama from a trip to northern Japan in 1876. Now on this day the summer holidays begin.

August

August 15 is Remembrance Day for the victims of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima (August 9, 1945) and Nagasaki (August 9, 1945). On this day, Japan officially surrendered.

In mid-August, days dedicated to the holiday are held Bon- Ancestors' Day. It is believed that on these days ancestors visit the houses in which they previously lived. Special welcome bonfires are lit for them. mukae-bi which at the end of the holiday are replaced by farewell bonfires okuri-bi. Sometimes okuri-bi is lit in lamps and lowered into the water. A ceremony is performed in Buddhist temples Urabon in honor of deceased ancestors. All over Japan these days people dance a special round dance. Odori, performed in national costumes. During the Bon holiday, vacations are often granted to visit the graves of ancestors. During the Bon holiday, it is customary to give each other gifts.

Throughout August, nightly fireworks festivals are organized in Japan.

September

August 31st or September 1st - day Nihyaku current- the beginning of the typhoon season. The harvest must be completed before this day, otherwise the crop will perish. According to tradition, this day is considered the 210th day since the Rissyun holiday.

In addition to typhoons, the autumn rainy season also begins in September ( Akisame).

On September 1, 1923, the Great Kanto Earthquake occurred, in which 140 thousand people died in the vicinity of Tokyo, and Tokyo itself was destroyed. In 1960, this day was declared Natural Disaster Relief Day. On this day, schools conduct training evacuations of schoolchildren. Usually they end the ceremony of the beginning of a new trimester. ^_^

September 15 is a national holiday, Day of Respect for the Elderly ( Keiro no hi). It has been celebrated since 1951 and was declared state in 1966.

September 14 or 15 - Full Moon Admiration Day ( Chushu no meigetsu). On this day, donuts in the shape of the full moon are eaten. The holiday is dedicated to the moon god Tsukiyoshi.

September 23 or 24 - Autumnal Equinox ( Shubun no hi). The week-long period beginning three days before the Autumn Equinox is called Higan (as in spring). During this time, the Japanese also visit the graves of their ancestors.

October

October 1 is the Day of collecting donations for the benefit of the poor. Its symbol is a red feather, and this tradition came to Japan from the United States. Many celebrities are participating in the fundraiser.

The second Monday of October (until 2000 - October 10) - public holiday Sports Day ( Taiyuku no hi). Established in honor of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Various sports competitions are held on this day.

International Book Week takes place from October 27 to November 9. The holiday has been celebrated since 1947 and was borrowed from the USA.

November

November 3 - Culture Day ( Bunka no hi), Public Holiday. On this day in 1946, the new Japanese Constitution was published. On this day, the emperor awards cultural awards.

November 15 - Holiday Shichi-go-san("Seven-five-three"). On this day, children as young as three, boys as young as five, and girls as young as seven visit Shinto shrines and pray for longevity. In ancient times, at the age of three, children stopped shaving their heads; at the age of five, boys were first dressed in trousers. hakama, and girls were first tied with a belt at the age of seven obi. Therefore, now children usually come to churches in national costumes. After visiting the temple, parents buy longevity candy for their children - chitose ame. It is sold with a bag on which a stork and a turtle are depicted - ancient symbols of long life. Literally "chitose" means "a thousand years".

November 23 is a national holiday, Labor Thanksgiving Day ( Kinrokansha no hi). It was established in 1948 in honor of the ancient Harvest Festival ( Niinamesai). During this festival, the emperor thanked the gods for the rice harvest and symbolically shared a meal with them. Now this holiday is also associated with guarantees of employment and human rights.

December

December 25-28 - making mochi rice balls to eat on New Year's Eve. Mochi are considered to be the embodiment of the spirit of rice. Eating them is communion with his divine power.

December 31 - ceremony Omisoka, cleaning the house before the New Year. The house is thoroughly washed and cleaned, all garbage is thrown away. On New Year's night they eat long noodles toshi-koshi(“moving from year to year”) so that life lasts as long as these noodles. At midnight in Buddhist temples the bell is rung 108 times to overcome the 108 passions that prevent people from achieving Enlightenment. These 108 strokes mark the beginning of the new year for the Japanese.