What kind of day is 天皇誕生日 ?
The Emperor’s Birthday (天皇誕生日, Tennō Tanjōbi) is a national holiday in Japan, celebrated annually to honor the reigning emperor’s birth. The date of the holiday changes whenever a new emperor ascends the throne, reflecting their specific birthdate.
Why do Japanese celebrate the Emperor’s birthday ?
The celebration of Tennō Tanjōbi, or the Emperor’s Birthday, dates back to the Meiji Era (1868–1912). The holiday was established to celebrate the birthday of the reigning emperor, and it has evolved in its significance over time.
The Emperor’s Birthday became an official holiday during the Meiji period, following the Meiji Restoration in 1868, which marked the end of feudal Japan and the restoration of imperial rule under Emperor Meiji (明治天皇). In 1868, Emperor Meiji’s birthday, November 3, was chosen as the official Emperor’s Birthday celebration (Ten’nō Tanjobi). This date was observed until the end of the Meiji era. Emperor Meiji’s birthday was celebrated to honor his crucial role in transforming Japan into a modern nation-state. The holiday emphasized his contributions to Japan’s progress and symbolized national unity. After his death in 1912, the celebration continued, with the birthday of Emperor Taishō (大正天皇) becoming the official day of observance.
With each subsequent emperor, the date of celebration changed to match the reigning emperor’s birthdate, a tradition that has continued to this day.
Current celebration is on February 23rd. It’s the birthdate of the current emperor, Emperor Naruhito (徳仁天皇), born in 1960. This date is observed since February 23, 2020, following Emperor Naruhito’s ascension to the throne in May 2019. The Emperor’s Birthday is one of Japan’s national holidays, enshrined in the Public Holiday Law. It is an occasion for the public to celebrate and show respect for the emperor as a unifying figure and symbol of the nation.
Past celebrations
Under Emperor Akihito 明仁天皇 (Heisei Era), 天皇誕生日 was celebrated on December 23rd, the birthday of Emperor Akihito, until his abdication in 2019. Following his abdication, December 23 is no longer a public holiday.
Under Emperor Hirohito 裕仁天皇 (Showa Era) : celebrated on April 29th, the birthday of Emperor Hirohito (Showa). After his passing in 1989, April 29 was renamed Greenery Day and later Showa Day, becoming part of Golden Week.
Emperor’s birthday celebrations
The emperor, empress, and other members of the Imperial Family make public appearances on the balcony of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The Emperor’s Birthday is one of the few times each year when the public is allowed to enter the Imperial Palace grounds. Well-wishers gather in the palace grounds to wave flags, shout congratulations, and offer their greetings. The event is known as Ippan Sanga (一般参賀), or “general public visit.” The emperor delivers a short speech expressing gratitude and wishes for the nation’s prosperity and peace.
On this day, public buildings, streets, and homes are often decorated with the Japanese flag (Hinomaru). Cultural and local events may be held to honor the day, but it is not marked with large-scale festivals or fireworks. The media often broadcasts documentaries and programs about the emperor’s life and role.