National Foundation Day
A day to reflect on the founding of the nation and to nurture a love for the country
Kenkoku Kinen no Hi (National Foundation Day) is a national holiday celebrated on February 11th. Its purpose is "to reflect on the establishment of the nation and to cultivate a love for the country."
Why "Kenkoku Kinen 'no' Hi"?
Unlike many countries that celebrate a specific historical event (like an independence day), Japan's origins are deeply rooted in mythology. February 11th corresponds to the traditional New Year's Day when, according to the ancient chronicle Nihon Shoki, Emperor Jimmu (the mythical first emperor) ascended the throne in 660 BC.
Because this date is based on myth rather than historical fact, the holiday was named "National Foundation Day" (with the possessive particle 'no') rather than "Foundation Day," to celebrate the concept of the nation's founding rather than a specific historical event.
Historical Context
Before World War II, this date was celebrated as Kigensetsu (Empire Day). It was abolished after the war by the Allied occupation forces but was reinstated in 1966 after intense political debate.