National Foundation Day of Japan: History, Significance, and Contemporary Observance

National Foundation Day of Japan: History, Significance, and Contemporary Observance

National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is one of Japan’s most significant national holidays. It holds a central place in the collective consciousness of the nation, reflecting both the deep-rooted traditions of the country and its historical continuity. The holiday, observed annually on February 11th, commemorates the founding of Japan by Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor in Japanese mythology and history, according to the Nihon Shoki, an ancient Japanese historical text. The date of National Foundation Day is traditionally linked to Emperor Jimmu’s ascension to the throne in 660 BCE.

The holiday was officially established in 1966, though the significance of February 11th has been celebrated in Japan long before that. National Foundation Day serves not only as a celebration of the nation’s origins but also as a day of reflection on Japan’s unity, identity, and future.

Origins of National Foundation Day

National Foundation Day is rooted in Japan's ancient myths and its creation story, which are enshrined in two principal texts of Japanese history: the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan) and the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters). These texts were compiled in the 8th century and serve as the cornerstone for Japan's imperial genealogy and historical narratives.

The most prominent myth regarding Japan’s founding involves Emperor Jimmu, who, according to the Nihon Shoki, was a descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu, the most revered deity in Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion. The story holds that Amaterasu sent her grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, to rule the Japanese archipelago, and from his line, Emperor Jimmu was born. In 660 BCE, Emperor Jimmu ascended the throne and began what is considered to be Japan’s first unified imperial rule.

Jimmu’s reign symbolizes the start of Japan’s imperial era, and his imperial line, which is believed to be the longest continuous hereditary monarchy in the world, continues to this day with the current Emperor Naruhito. The establishment of National Foundation Day on February 11th was intended to highlight the historical and symbolic significance of Emperor Jimmu’s reign and the beginning of Japan as a unified nation-state.

However, the specific day for the celebration of National Foundation Day was not always fixed to February 11th. Before the official establishment of the holiday in 1966, various periods in Japanese history saw different ways of commemorating the founding of the nation, though the date has been celebrated in various forms since the 7th century, with the first official observances emerging in the 19th century.

Historical Evolution of National Foundation Day

Before becoming a national holiday, the day to mark the founding of Japan had already been celebrated in varying forms. The first recognition of this day dates back to 660 BCE, but its status as a public holiday only came into focus during the Meiji period (1868–1912). In 1872, the Meiji government declared February 11th as "Kigensetsu" (the Day of the Foundation of the Nation), which was intended to both affirm Japan’s national pride and solidify the power of the new imperial government following the Meiji Restoration.

However, the celebrations surrounding this day were officially halted in 1948 during the post-war American occupation of Japan. The occupying forces, led by the United States, sought to dismantle many aspects of Japan's imperial tradition, and National Foundation Day was suspended, along with other royal celebrations. In an effort to separate the state from militarism and imperialism, the observances of Kigensetsu were formally prohibited, as they were seen as connected to Japan’s wartime past.

The post-war era was a time of reflection and rebuilding for Japan, and many of the old nationalistic and imperial holidays were abolished or redefined. It was only in 1966, when the National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) was officially established, that February 11th was reinstated as a national holiday. This was a time when Japan had begun to recover economically and politically from the aftermath of World War II, and it was seen as an appropriate moment to reaffirm the country’s unity and historical continuity while moving away from the aggressive nationalism that characterized the wartime period.

Significance of National Foundation Day in Contemporary Japan

In modern Japan, National Foundation Day serves multiple purposes. It is a day for Japanese people to reflect on the nation’s history, the continuity of its imperial family, and the unity of its people. The day is not as heavily celebrated as other national holidays like New Year’s Day or the Emperor’s Birthday, but it remains an important occasion, particularly for those who value traditional symbols of national identity.

The holiday provides an opportunity for Japanese citizens to reflect on their historical roots and to feel a sense of belonging to a country with an ancient and rich cultural heritage. It emphasizes unity and national pride, focusing on the idea that Japan’s history is not just one of political or military events but is rooted in a shared sense of cultural identity, beginning with Emperor Jimmu.

The day also has significant religious connotations. Shinto shrines, which are central to Japan's cultural and religious practices, often hold ceremonies on this day. Many citizens visit shrines to pray for the well-being of the country and its people. The day has a spiritual aspect for those who adhere to Shinto, as it is linked to the worship of Amaterasu and the imperial family, both of which are central to Japan’s Shinto traditions.

Cultural Reflections on National Foundation Day

National Foundation Day can also be viewed as a day of reconciliation between the traditional elements of Japanese culture and the modern, post-war identity that Japan has constructed since the end of World War II. The holiday highlights the importance of Japan’s imperial family and its role as a symbol of unity for the people, but it also serves as a reminder of the progress Japan has made in the post-war period.

The day encourages discussions about what it means to be Japanese, particularly in the context of a rapidly changing world. In recent years, there has been growing debate about the role of the monarchy in contemporary Japanese society, and National Foundation Day provides an opportunity to consider these discussions while honoring Japan’s long-standing imperial traditions.

In schools and cultural institutions across Japan, National Foundation Day often involves educational activities, including discussions about the country’s history and the symbolism of its imperial family. Teachers may use the occasion to talk about Japan’s early history, the ancient myths surrounding the nation’s founding, and the role of the imperial family in shaping Japan’s identity.

For some, the holiday is also a time to express gratitude for the economic prosperity and peace that Japan has enjoyed in the post-war era. Despite the challenges faced by the country during the 20th century, Japan has emerged as one of the most advanced and prosperous nations in the world, and National Foundation Day is a day to reflect on this transformation.

Criticism and Controversies

Despite its celebration, National Foundation Day is not without controversy. Some groups view the holiday as a symbol of Japanese nationalism and militarism, particularly given its historical roots in the Meiji period, a time when Japan was expanding its imperial power across Asia. There are also debates about the appropriateness of celebrating a day that is deeply connected to the imperial family, which some critics argue is out of step with Japan’s modern democratic values.

The rise of right-wing groups in Japan, who celebrate National Foundation Day with rallies and public displays of nationalism, has also caused concern among more liberal and progressive elements of society. These groups often use the holiday to promote their political agendas, including a push for a stronger military presence and a more assertive role for Japan in international politics.

However, for most citizens, National Foundation Day remains a day for quiet reflection rather than political demonstration. It is seen as a time to honor the country’s rich cultural heritage and the unity of its people.

Conclusion

National Foundation Day in Japan is a celebration of the nation's origins, symbolizing the enduring connection between the people and the imperial family. It commemorates the founding of Japan by Emperor Jimmu and serves as a reminder of the country's long and rich history. The holiday has evolved significantly over the centuries, reflecting the political, social, and cultural changes that Japan has experienced, from its imperial past to its modern democratic present.

While the holiday is often marked with ceremonies and visits to Shinto shrines, it also serves as a time for reflection on Japan’s unity and national identity. National Foundation Day is a day that reminds the people of Japan of their deep-rooted connection to their past while looking forward to the future.

Photo from iStock

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