Sports Day

Nationwide public holiday in Japan · スポーツの日

Next Sports Day

Monday, 12 October 2026

Dates

YearDateWeekdayNotes
202612 OctoberMondayNationwide
202711 OctoberMondayNationwide

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

Sat 10 Oct – Mon 12 Oct is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.

Plan more breaks with the leave planner.

Typical weather in Tokyo around 12 October: high 23°C (73°F), low 16°C (61°F), rain on 51% of days.

Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Tokyo. Past averages, not a forecast.

About Sports Day

Sports Day, Supōtsu no Hi, encourages people to enjoy sport and to cultivate a healthy body and mind. It was established in 1966 as Health and Sports Day on 10 October, the anniversary of the opening of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Since 2000 it has been observed on the second Monday of October, and it took its current name in 2020.

Traditions

Schools, companies and local communities often hold undōkai, sports festivals with relay races, tug-of-war and team games in which families take part. Many sports facilities hold open events, and the autumn weather makes it a popular day for outdoor activities.

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

Culture Day

Tuesday, 3 November 2026

More for Japan

Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.