Foundation Day
Nationwide public holiday in Japan · 建国記念の日
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 11 February | Wednesday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 11 February | Thursday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Japan.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Take Friday 12 February off and get 4 days in a row (Thu 11 Feb – Sun 14 Feb).
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Tokyo around 11 February: high 10°C (50°F), low 1°C (34°F), rain on 21% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Tokyo. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Thursday 11 February in Tokyo: (MET Norway)
About Foundation Day
National Foundation Day, Kenkoku Kinen no Hi, celebrates the founding of the Japanese nation. It falls on 11 February, the traditional date of the accession of Emperor Jimmu, the legendary first emperor, as recorded in the ancient chronicle Nihon Shoki. Before the war the date was observed as Kigensetsu. It was abolished after 1945 and re-established as a national holiday in 1966.
Traditions
The day is relatively quiet for most people, with no large national celebrations. Ceremonies are held at many Shinto shrines, and various groups hold commemorative events and gatherings in Tokyo and other cities, reflecting differing views about the holiday's origins.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Japan
Tuesday, 23 February 2027
Foundation Day in other countries
More for Japan
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.