Culture Day
A day to love freedom and peace, and to promote culture
Bunka no Hi (Culture Day) is a national holiday celebrated on November 3rd. Its purpose is "to love freedom and peace, and to promote culture."
Historical Context
Before World War II, November 3rd was celebrated as the birthday of Emperor Meiji. In 1946, the new post-war Constitution of Japan was officially promulgated on this date (it took effect six months later on May 3rd, Constitution Memorial Day). Because the new constitution strongly emphasized peace and culture, the day was designated as Culture Day.
The Order of Culture
One of the most prominent events on Culture Day is the prestigious Order of Culture award ceremony. Held at the Imperial Palace, the Emperor personally presents medals to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Japanese art, science, or literature (including Nobel laureates).
Nationwide, many art galleries and museums offer free admission on this day, and schools often hold their annual cultural festivals (bunkasai).