Respect for the Aged Day (敬老の日, Keirō no Hi)

Celebrated annually on the third Monday of September, Respect for the Aged Day, or Keirō no Hi, is a cherished public holiday in Japan. It is a day dedicated to honoring the nation’s elderly citizens, expressing gratitude for their contributions to society, and celebrating their longevity and wisdom. While not a direct equivalent to Grandparents’ Day, it fills a similar role, providing a dedicated occasion for families to pay tribute to their elders.

The holiday’s origins trace back to 1947 in Nomadani-mura (now part of Taka-cho) in Hyōgo Prefecture. Following the devastation of World War II, the village’s mayor, Masao Kadowaki, sought to uplift the spirits of the community’s older generation. He believed that the wisdom and experience of the elders would be crucial for rebuilding the village. On September 15, he organized a gathering called “Old Folks’ Day” (Toshiyori no Hi) to celebrate and listen to the seniors. The idea was to create a day to honor those who had endured immense hardships and to foster a culture of respect and intergenerational harmony.

The concept was an instant success and quickly spread throughout Hyōgo and eventually across the entire country. In 1966, the Japanese government officially designated September 15 as a national holiday, renaming it Respect for the Aged Day (Keirō no Hi). For decades, it remained on this date. However, in 2003, as part of the “Happy Monday System” aimed at creating more three-day weekends, the holiday was moved to the third Monday of September. This change allowed for more consistent opportunities for families to travel and spend time together, strengthening the holiday’s focus on family gatherings.

The significance of Keirō no Hi is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese values, where reverence for elders has always been a core tenet of society. The holiday serves as a national reminder of the social contract between generations, recognizing that the foundation of modern Japan was built by the hard work and resilience of those who came before. It is a time for national reflection, with media outlets often featuring special reports on Japan’s aging population and highlighting the oldest citizens in the country. The government even has a tradition of presenting a silver sake cup to every person who reaches the age of 100, a practice that began in 1963.

Suggestions for Events and Things to Do

While a simple visit is often the most meaningful gesture, modern celebrations of Keirō no Hi have evolved to include a variety of activities and events. Here are some suggestions for how to celebrate:

* Family Gatherings:

The most common way to celebrate is by spending quality time with elderly family members. Many families plan a special meal at home or take their elders out to a favorite restaurant. Cooking their favorite dishes or simply enjoying a meal together is a heartfelt way to show appreciation.

* Gift-Giving:

Giving gifts is a popular tradition on this day, with a wide range of options available. Traditional gifts include special teacups, beautifully packaged Japanese sweets (wagashi), or flowers. More modern gifts might include health and wellness products, massage devices, or experience-based gifts like a spa voucher or tickets to a concert. Many families also opt for practical gifts like warm clothing or non-slip socks. Ultimately, the focus is on a thoughtful gesture that shows you’ve been thinking of them.

* Community and Public Events:

Across Japan, local governments and communities organize various events to honor their senior citizens. These can include:

* Keirokai (Respect for the Aged Gatherings):

These events often feature cultural performances, such as traditional music and dance, poetry readings, or theatrical skits performed by local children and teenagers.

* Volunteer Activities:

Many volunteers make and deliver free lunch boxes (bento) or gift bags to older adults in their neighborhoods, particularly to those who may live alone.

* Free Access to Attractions:

Museums, parks, and other public attractions often offer free or discounted admission for seniors on this day. Taking your elders to visit a museum or a beautiful garden can be a wonderful outing.

* Creative Expressions of Gratitude:

For grandchildren, a personalized gift can be particularly meaningful. A handwritten letter, a drawing, or a homemade craft can show a deeper level of care and appreciation than a store-bought item. A video call is also a great way to connect with elders who live far away, allowing you to share a moment together despite the distance.

* Exploring the Meaning:

Beyond gifts and meals, Keirō no Hi is an ideal time to simply listen. Sit with your elders, ask them to share stories from their lives, and learn about the experiences that shaped them. This act of listening and valuing their history and wisdom is the truest expression of respect and is at the very heart of the holiday’s meaning.

In a rapidly changing world, Respect for the Aged Day remains a vital tradition that grounds Japanese society in its long-standing values of honor, gratitude, and familial bonds. It is a day to reflect on the past, appreciate the present, and look to the future with the guidance of those who have paved the way.

References

In English

https://savvytokyo.com/keiro-no-hi-celebrating-health-wisdom-aging-society/

https://www.japanesepod101.com/blog/2019/08/16/respect-for-the-aged-day/

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Respect_for_the_Aged_Day

In Japanese

http://www.i-nekko.jp/nenchugyoji/sonohoka/keirou/

https://www.yamada-heiando.jp/media/keirounohi/

https://www.i879.com/keirou/column/

Photo thanks to Hiro Re @ Flickr.com.

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