National Foundation Day

National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is a national holiday in Japan, celebrated annually on February 11 to commemorate the founding of the Japanese nation. The holiday embodies the motto: "To remember the day of the founding of the state and to cultivate a heart that loves the country".

The origins of National Foundation Day trace back to a legend recorded in the Nihon Shoki, Japan’s oldest historical chronicle. According to this legend, Emperor Jimmu ascended to the throne on February 11, 660 B.C., marking the beginning of the Japanese imperial lineage. This legendary date was later used as the basis for the holiday.

During the Meiji era (1868–1912), the government officially designated the holiday as Empire Foundation Day (紀元節, Kigensetsu) in 1872 to strengthen national unity and emphasize the emperor's role in Japan's identity. Some historians suggest that Emperor Meiji established the holiday to consolidate his power following the abolition of the shogunate, uniting the nation under imperial rule.

Traditionally, the holiday coincided with the Lunar New Year, making it a grand celebration. However, in 1873, when Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar, the date was officially fixed on February 11. After World War II, in 1947, the holiday was abolished due to its association with nationalism and the emperor-centered ideology of the wartime era. Following years of debate, it was reinstated in 1967 under the revised name National Foundation Day (建国記念の日, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi), reflecting a more neutral and constitutional interpretation of Japan’s national identity.

In modern Japan, National Foundation Day is observed with various events and celebrations across the country. While many Japanese spend the day at home with family, others participate in public ceremonies, parades, and flag-raising events. The Imperial Family also extends official greetings, marking the occasion with a more symbolic and reflective tone. Additionally, political organizations and activists sometimes hold discussions and rallies, as the holiday still sparks debate over its historical and national significance.

A notable celebration of National Foundation Day took place in 1940, marking the 2,600th anniversary of Emperor Jimmu’s accession. The Japanese government formed a special celebration committee and held nationwide events. A songwriting competition was organized to commemorate the occasion, and out of 17,487 entries, a poem by Yoshio Masuda with music composed by Gihachiro Mori, a music teacher, was selected as the official anthem for the event.

Although National Foundation Day no longer carries the same imperial significance it once did, it remains an important moment for the Japanese people to reflect on their country’s history and national identity.