敬老の日 - Respect-for-the-Aged Day

Respect-for-the-Aged Day is a national holiday stipulated by the National Holidays Act. This holiday falls on September 15th. It was established in 1966 to commemorate the enactment of the Welfare Law for the Aged. On Respect-for-the-Aged Day the younger generations congratulate the elderly on their longevity and express their gratitude for their contributions and efforts. The elderly are entertained at various events, which are sponsored by villages, towns, cities, and various groups across Japan. They are also given mementos and cash to celebrate this day.

「国民の祝日に関する法律」によって定められた国民の祝日のうちの一つで、9月15日がこの日に当たります。老人の長寿を祝いこれまでの功績や努力に感謝の意を表すために、1966年「老人福祉法」の制定を記念して制定されました。各自治体(市町村)や諸団体によって老人をもてなす行事が催され、お祝いとして記念品や現金が贈呈されます。