Respect for the Aged Day
A day to respect the elderly who have served society for many years and celebrate their longevity
Keiro no Hi (Respect for the Aged Day) is a national holiday celebrated on the third Monday of September. Its purpose is "to respect the elderly who have served society for many years, and to celebrate their longevity."
Origins
The holiday originated in 1947 in a small village in Hyogo Prefecture as "Old Folks' Day." The mayor believed that younger generations should respect the elderly and learn from their wisdom. The idea spread nationwide, and in 1966 it was officially established as "Respect for the Aged Day" on September 15th.
In 2003, it was moved to the third Monday of September under the Happy Monday System.
Customs and Silver Week
On this day, neighborhoods host entertainment events for senior citizens, and children often give gifts or make crafts for their grandparents. It also contributes to "Silver Week"—a term used for the string of holidays that occasionally occurs when Respect for the Aged Day falls close to Autumnal Equinox Day.