National holiday
Respect for the Aged Day
敬老の日
A national holiday honoring elderly people and longevity.
- This year
- Sep 21 (Mon)
- Third Monday of September
History
Keirō no Hi began as a local event in Hyōgo Prefecture and became a national holiday in 1966 (originally September 15). It moved to the third Monday of September in 2003. When it falls near Autumnal Equinox Day, the span is sometimes called Silver Week.
How it is observed
Families visit or gift grandparents; communities hold celebrations for local seniors. Media features stories of centenarians.
Travel tips
Milder crowds than Golden Week unless Silver Week creates a long break. Good time for autumn festival warm-ups and first foliage trips in Hokkaido.