About Japan National Foundation Day
National Foundation Day (Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is a Japanese public holiday observed every February 11. It commemorates the mythical founding of Japan and the accession of the legendary first emperor, Jimmu, whose enthronement is dated in the ancient chronicles Kojiki and Nihon Shoki to 660 BC. The holiday is a day to reflect on the nation's history and identity, marked far more quietly than the national days of many other countries.
The date has a long and contested history. In the Meiji era the government created a holiday called Kigensetsu on February 11 to celebrate the imperial line and the founding of the empire — the same date chosen in 1889 for the promulgation of the Meiji Constitution. Kigensetsu was abolished after the Second World War, then revived in its current, more neutral form as National Foundation Day by cabinet order in 1966, first observed in 1967.
Historians note there is no firm evidence that Emperor Jimmu actually existed, and the date is symbolic rather than a record of real events. National Foundation Day falls on the same date every year, February 11, so the live countdown above always points to the next one. Add it to your own page to keep Japan's foundation day in view, or explore more national-day countdowns.
Upcoming dates
| 2027 | Thursday, February 11, 2027next |
| 2028 | Friday, February 11, 2028 |
| 2029 | Sunday, February 11, 2029 |
| 2030 | Monday, February 11, 2030 |
| 2031 | Tuesday, February 11, 2031 |
FAQ
When is Japan's National Foundation Day?
National Foundation Day (Kenkoku Kinen no Hi) is observed every year on February 11 in Japan.
Why is National Foundation Day important?
It commemorates the legendary founding of Japan and the accession of the first emperor, Jimmu, traditionally dated to 660 BC, and is a day to reflect on national history.
How is National Foundation Day celebrated?
It is a quiet, reflective public holiday; some Shinto shrines hold "kenkoku-sai" foundation festivals, and there are flag displays and ceremonies.
Why is February 11 the date?
February 11 is the Gregorian date assigned to Emperor Jimmu's legendary accession in 660 BC, and was also chosen in 1889 for the Meiji Constitution to link to that founding.