Emperor’s Birthday in Japan
Japan’s Emperor’s Birthday is a national holiday on February 23, set by law to celebrate the Emperor’s birthday. The Imperial Household Agency describes public greetings at the Imperial Palace as part of the day’s observances.[1][2]
A holiday whose date follows the throne
The Act on National Holidays was enacted in 1948, and Emperor’s Birthday has been one of Japan’s national holidays since then. The law names February 23 as the day to celebrate the Emperor’s birthday. The date changed with imperial succession: it was April 29 for Emperor Showa, then December 23 for Emperor Akihito, and became February 23 after the 2019 succession.[1]
Public greetings at the Imperial Palace
The Imperial Household Agency describes a public greeting at the Imperial Palace on February 23. In the morning, Their Majesties appear on a palace balcony and the Emperor addresses visitors gathered in the East Plaza. Visitors enter through the Main Gate, also known as Nijubashi; the Agency’s guide also describes an afternoon greeting book near its building.[2][3]
A public holiday and its practical effect
Under the Act on National Holidays, national holidays are public holidays. If one falls on a Sunday, the closest following day that is not itself a national holiday becomes a public holiday. The statute establishes that rule, but it does not set opening hours for individual shops or transport services, so visitors should check with the place or operator they plan to use.[1]
What the sources establish
Emperor’s Birthday is a public holiday in Japan, with its date changing when a new emperor succeeds to the throne. The Emperor greets the public at the Imperial Palace.[1][2]
Frequently asked questions
When is Japan’s Emperor’s Birthday?
The national holiday is February 23, the date set in the Act on National Holidays.[1]
Is it a public holiday?
Yes. The Act on National Holidays classifies national holidays as public holidays. Individual work schedules and business opening hours may vary, so check with your employer or destination.[1]
Can visitors attend a palace greeting?
The Imperial Household Agency describes a public greeting at the Imperial Palace, with visitors entering through the Main Gate and gathering in the East Plaza. Check the Agency’s current instructions before travelling, since arrangements can change.[2]
What happens if February 23 falls on a Sunday?
The closest following day that is not already a national holiday is treated as a public holiday under the Act on National Holidays.[1]
Are shops and public transport closed?
The national-holiday law does not specify shop opening hours or transport timetables. Check the specific businesses and transport operators you plan to use.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Emperor's Birthday in Japan:
- Act on National Holidays (Act No. 178 of July 20, 1948)- Japanese Law Translation, Ministry of Justice
- His Majesty’s Birthday Receptions- Imperial Household Agency
- 各「国民の祝日」について- Cabinet Office, Government of Japan