National Foundation Day
建国記念の日
A national holiday commemorating the legendary founding of Japan and the nation’s beginnings.
- This year
- Feb 11 (Wed)
- February 11
History
February 11 corresponds to the traditional accession date of Emperor Jimmu in the Nihon Shoki chronicle (660 BCE in the old reckoning). Prewar Japan celebrated Kigensetsu on this date; after the war the holiday was paused, then restored in 1966 as Kenkoku Kinen no Hi — framed as reflecting on the nation’s founding rather than a strict historical claim.
How it is observed
Official ceremonies and patriotic events occur in some places; for most people it is simply a midwinter day off. Flags may appear on public buildings.
Travel tips
Banks and many offices close. Museums and attractions often stay open with holiday hours. Pair it with nearby winter illuminations or onsen trips while transport is still manageable compared with Golden Week.
Related shrines & temples
Places often visited around this day — open a shrine page or search the directory.