Greenery Day


Greenery Day

April 29This day formerly observed the birthday of Emperor Hirohito of Japan (1901-1989), who was the world's longest ruling monarch. His reign included the attempted military conquest of Asia, the attack on the United States at Pearl Harbor, and his country's defeat after the U.S. dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. He also oversaw Japan's post-war resurgence to a position of economic strength and influence. Hirohito renounced his divinity in 1946 and became a symbolic head of state in Japan's new parliamentary democracy.
Today this day is celebrated as Greenery Day— Midori-no-Hi —with parades featuring elaborate floats, paper lanterns, traditional Japanese costumes, and fireworks. Popular places from which to observe the festivities in Tokyo include Tokyo Tower, the highest structure in the city, and Shiba Park. People also mark the day by planting trees and other activities centered around the appreciation of nature.
Greenery Day begins Golden Week, which also includes Japan Constitution Memorial Day (May 3) and Kodomo-no-Hi (Children's Day, May 5). It is a popular time for people to take vacations and enjoy the spring weather.
CONTACTS:
Japan Information Network, Japan Center for Intercultural Communications
2-7-7 Hirakawacho
Chiyodaku
Tokyo, 102-0093 Japan
81-3-3263-5041; fax: 81-3-3230-4107
home.jcic.or.jp/en/index-e.html
SOURCES:
AnnivHol-2000, p. 70
BkFest-1937, p. 198
NatlHolWrld-1968, p. 52

Celebrated in: Japan