While Japanese workers don’t take many personal days off, there are quite a few national holidays in Japan throughout the year. These national holidays give employees a much-needed break, and many smaller and larger events take place throughout the country. And the birthday of the Emperor is one of them. So let’s learn more about this important day!
Japan is the oldest continuous monarchy in the world. In Japan, the Emperor is never referred to by his name but is referred to as “His Majesty the Emperor” (天皇 陛下 Tennō Heika). This can be shortened to “His Majesty” (陛下 Heika). According to mythology, the first Emperor of Japan, Emperor Jimmu, is descended from the Goddess of the Sun Amaterasu. Consequently, he was enthroned in 660 BC.
It is commonly accepted that the Imperial Family has reigned in Japan for more than 1500 years and that all have descended from the same family. The imperial crest is a chrysanthemum flower with 16 petals.
Japan’s Emperor is considered a symbol of the state and of unity in Japan. The postwar constitution of 1946 states that the Emperor only has a symbolic function. So he now mainly participates in ceremonies and diplomatic meetings but has no effective political power. The Emperor shall be the symbol of the State and of the unity of the People. Deriving his position from the will of the people with whom resides sovereign power. (Constitution of Japan, Article 1).
Known as ‘Tennou Tanjyobi’, this holiday is celebrated on the birthday of the current Emperor. Thus, if the Emperor changes, the national holiday will change to the birthday of the new Emperor. Previous Emperor Akihito’s birthday was on December 23rd and this was the date of the holiday between 1989 and 2018. In April 2019, Akihito became the first living monarch to relinquish the Chrysanthemum throne in nearly 200 years. Currently, the Emperor’s Birthday is celebrated on 23 February, as Emperor Naruhito was born on that day in 1960.
On the day of the Emperor’s birth, you have a chance to meet him in real life. It is customary for the Emperor, Empress, and the rest of the Imperial Family to make about three appearances on the veranda of the Chowaden hall. This hall is in the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace and they welcome all those that come to the celebration. The Emperor’s Birthday is one of only two days during the year that the Imperial Palace is open to the public the other being January 2nd.
Everyone that gathers in the palace greets the emperor with Japanese flags and cheers of “banzai”. Since there are many visitors during this time, visitors may be placed in groups before entering the palace grounds. The Emperor and Empress will then greet each group as they enter and leave the grounds.
If you are thinking about making a trip to Japan, as seasoned Japan experts we can help you create your perfect Japan tour. Including expert guides who can add to your holiday with their extensive knowledge on topics such as the Imperial family and Japanese culture. Contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!
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