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Respect For The Aged Day

Respect for the Aged Day was first introduced in Hyogo prefecture, to the south of Tokyo, in 1947.

The literal translation at that time was 'Old Folk's Day'. As news of the event spread, more and more Japanese people expressed an interest in celebrating the occasion.

In 1966, the day was officially recognized by the Government as a national holiday and the name changed to the current, Keirou No Hi in Japanese.

Events on Respect for the Aged Day

Like Ocean Day in July, because this is a relatively new public holiday, it is not steeped in traditional culture.

It is a little like grandparent's day in other countries. The service and value that the elderly population has brought and given to Japan is remembered and honored.

In particular, on Keirou No Hi, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government pays a visit to Japanese citizens in the Tokyo area who are 100 years or older.

The longevity of the Japanese as a race is a fact that leaves many wondering how they live such long lives. One major contributor is thought to be the traditional healthy Japanese diet. See our Tokyo food page for more information.

In Tokyo, many children will make special gifts and buys cards for their grandparents. Families will go out for a meal on the day and celebrate together the lives of their older generation.

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Japans' Aging Population

The Respect for the Aged Day is beginning to have a more significant impact as a result of the growth in the aging population of Tokyo and Japan.

Currently hovering at around 20% of the total population, the number of elderly people is growing rapidly as the birth rate continues to fall.

Keirou No Hi is a reminder for many in these modern times that there's a need to face pending welfare issues and evaluate the quality and range of services available for older Japanese residents.