What is Greenery Day (緑の日)?
Greenery Day, known as 緑の日 (Midori no Hi) in Japanese, is a national holiday celebrated annually on May 4th. It is part of Japan's Golden Week, a cluster of public holidays that many Japanese people use for travel and leisure. Greenery Day honors nature, the environment, and the late Emperor Shōwa’s love for plants and greenery.
History of Greenery Day
Originally, May 4th was not a named holiday but was observed as a national day off due to Japanese law requiring a holiday between two other national holidays (Constitution Memorial Day on May 3 https://www.group-shinka.com/culture/kenpo-kinenbi and Children’s Day on May 5).https://www.group-shinka.com/culture/childrens-day-japan
In 1989, following the death of Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito), his birthday (April 29) was renamed Greenery Day to honor his passion for nature. In 2007, Greenery Day was moved to May 4th, and April 29 became Shōwa Day (昭和の日).
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How is Greenery Day Celebrated?
Greenery Day is a time for relaxation, environmental awareness, and enjoying the natural world. Common activities include:
- Visiting parks, forests, and botanical gardens
- Participating in tree-planting events
- Nature walks and eco-friendly initiatives
- Educational events about conservation and sustainability
Many public gardens and zoos offer free admission on Greenery Day, encouraging families to connect with nature.
Greenery Day in Modern Japan
With growing global interest in climate change and sustainability, Greenery Day aligns with modern environmental values. Schools, municipalities, and environmental groups often use the day to promote green initiatives and ecological responsibility.
Interesting Facts about Greenery Day
It's part of the Golden Week, one of the busiest holiday seasons in Japan.
Emperor Shōwa was a noted biologist and published research on marine biology.
Greenery Day is not only about appreciating nature but also about reflecting on peace and harmony with the environment.
Some of the best places to visit:
- Yakushima, Takachiho Gorge, Kamikochi, Oirase Stream, and Kameiwa Cave. Other notable spots for experiencing the "shinryoku" (verdant splendor) season include the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, Tonogayato Garden in Tokyo, and green tea fields in Shizuoka.
- Nature-focused destinations:Places like Yakushima, Takachiho Gorge, and Kamikochi offer stunning natural scenery, perfect for enjoying the "shinryoku" season.
- Scenic parks and gardens:Visiting parks and gardens like Tonogayato Garden in Tokyo or the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto can be a great way to appreciate the lush greenery of this time of year.
- Tea gardens and tea houses:Ⅴisiting a tea garden or tea house, a traditional way to appreciate nature and enjoy green tea during Greenery Day.
- Green tea fields: Shizuoka, known for its tea production, is a good place to visit green tea fields and appreciate the verdant landscape.
Greenery Day (緑の日) is more than just a day off—it's a reminder of the beauty of nature and our duty to protect it. Whether you're in Japan or simply inspired by its traditions, take a moment on May 4th to step outside, breathe deeply, and appreciate the green world around you.
Summary
Greenery Day (緑の日, Midori no Hi) is celebrated annually on May 4th in Japan as part of the Golden Week holidays. This special day is dedicated to honoring nature, the environment, and the blessings of green life. Originally established to recognize Emperor Shōwa’s love of nature, it has since become a time for people across Japan to appreciate the natural world, reflect on ecological harmony, and enjoy outdoor activities.
From peaceful strolls in lush gardens to tree-planting events and environmental awareness campaigns, Greenery Day offers a moment of tranquility and a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the Earth.
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