Japan
Official White House Photo by Amanda LucidonMichelle Obama visits Kyoto during her trip to Japan.
On Nov. 23 every year in Japan, Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed. Not all Japanese citizens are guaranteed to have a day off work for the holiday, unlike Americans. But all government entities in Japan are closed on this day in celebration of the country’s industrial workers and progress.
The origin of Japan’s Thanksgiving holiday actually dates back to the seventh century. The first record of the holiday can be found in ancient records from 678 A.D. It was originally known as Niinamesai, and the holiday celebrated the welcome of the harvest season. But as Japan progressed and evolved into an industrial country rather than an agrarian one, the celebrations switched from honoring farmers to honoring workers.
This modern interpretation has been in practice since 1948. It came after the country expanded their Constitution following World War II. The new laws regarded workers’ rights and established fundamental human rights.
Special events are held across the country in honor of the holiday. One of the biggest celebrations is the Nagano Labour Festival, which celebrates the environment, peace, and human rights. Nagano is also the city that hosted the Olympic Winter Games in 1998 and holds a special place in Japan’s history.
Coinciding with the Nagano Labour Festival is the Nagano Ebisuko Fireworks Festival, which is regarded as one of the most stunning fireworks displays in the Japanese calendar year. Over 400,000 people come to watch the fireworks each year and combine the festivities of the two holidays into one big celebration.
