On February 11th, Japan celebrates Kenkoku Kinen no Hi (建国記念の日), or "Japan Foundation Day." Do you know the origins of this centuries-old celebration?
A tradition based… on a myth
This tradition originates from the myth of the creation of Japan in 660 BC by Emperor Jinmu, a direct descendant of the goddess Amaterasu. While the existence of the first Japanese emperor is mentioned in the Nihon Shoki (or "Chronicles of Japan"), one of the oldest literary sources on Japanese history along with the Kojiki (or "Record of Ancient Matters"), it is not historically verified.
Before taking on the name and date we know today, this public holiday was called Kigen-setsu 紀元節, meaning Empire Day. Because the calendar of the time was different, it is difficult to determine the exact day on which it took place.
However, we know that this festival was of great importance and very popular. Large parades and official ceremonies took place throughout Japan to strengthen the patriotic fervor of the population and to reinforce the divine status of the emperor.
The date of February 11th was decided in 1872, with the adoption of the Gregorian calendar at the beginning of the Meiji era. The date of the founding of Japan was also adapted to the Western calendar and set at February 11th of the year 660 BC.
After the Second World War
After the war, all events related to the Shinto religion and the worship of the Emperor were abolished. It was only from February 11, 1966, that this public holiday was reintroduced, no longer as "Empire Day," but as "a day commemorating the founding of the country.".
By a twist of fate, the first version of the current constitution was also transmitted on February 11 (1946) by American General Douglas MacArthur. The Kenkoku Kinen no Hi (建国記念の日) of today has lost its former prestige.
The Prime Minister gives a speech, some display the country's flag in front of their homes or on shop fronts. Generally, the population is invited to reflect on its sense of belonging to the nation, but there are no more celebrations or processions.
