The Beginning of Summer: A Season of Wishes — Cultural Differences Seen Through July Holidays in Japan and Around the World

1. Japan’s National Holiday: The Meaning Behind Marine Day (Uminohi)?

Marine Day (Umi no Hi) Date: July 21, 2025 (Third Monday of July)

Marine Day was established to express gratitude for the blessings of the sea and to pray for the prosperity of Japan as a maritime nation.
It became a national holiday in 1996 and was moved to the third Monday of July starting in 2003.
As an island nation surrounded by the sea, Japan has long relied on the ocean for fishing, trade, and cultural exchange.
This holiday aims to raise awareness of the importance of living in harmony with the sea.
It is also recognized as the holiday that marks the beginning of summer, with events such as the opening of beaches, marine sports festivals, ocean-themed educational programs for children, and public access to ports held across the country.

2. July Holidays Around the World: Days of Independence, Freedom, and Gratitude

U.S. Independence Day / Local Name: Independence Day / Date: July 4 / Country: United States of America

Independence Day commemorates July 4, 1776, when the thirteen American colonies declared independence from Britain.
It is a nationwide celebration of freedom and patriotism, marked by fireworks, barbecues, parades, and family gatherings.
This summer holiday reflects the American spirit of honoring diversity and national pride.

Bastille Day (French National Day) / Local Name: Fête nationale / Bastille Day / Date: July 14 / Country: France

Bastille Day commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, marking the beginning of the French Revolution.
It is a national holiday symbolizing liberty, equality, and fraternity, celebrated with grand military parades, fireworks, and music festivals throughout the country.
This cultural event strongly reflects the pride of the French people and the enduring spirit of civic revolution.

Canada Day / Local Name: Canada Day / Date: July 1 / Country: Canada

Canada Day celebrates the founding of the Dominion of Canada on July 1, 1867.
Live music, dancing, and parades fill parks and streets, and fireworks light up the night sky across the country.
As a multicultural nation, Canada’s celebrations highlight respect for immigrant cultures and strong regional identities.

3. Comparison Table of July Holidays in Japan and the World: Freedom, Gratitude, and the Start of a Season

4. Q&A: What Do July Holidays Mean?

Q1. Is Marine Day celebrated in other countries?

Marine Day is unique to Japan.
While few countries have holidays specifically dedicated to the sea, events like Earth Day are similar in spirit, celebrating nature and environmental awareness.

Q2. Why are there so many independence and revolution holidays in July?

July marks the beginning of summer and symbolically represents a “new season,” making it a fitting time for political and cultural milestones.
Many historical events coincided with this period, leading to their commemoration in July.

Q3. Are summer holidays family-oriented in other countries too?

Yes. In countries like the United States, Canada, and France, holidays such as Independence Day and Bastille Day are celebrated with fireworks, parades, and family gatherings.
Japan’s Marine Day also encourages families to connect with nature and enjoy time together.

5. Coming Next: August Holidays — A Season of Remembrance and Reflection

Obon, End-of-War Memorial Day, Mountain Day — A Time for Quiet Reflection

August is a month filled with remembrance and prayer.
It includes End-of-War Memorial Day, which honors the memory of wartime events, Mountain Day, which encourages appreciation of nature, and Obon, a time to welcome and honor ancestors.
In the next edition, we’ll explore the cultural traditions of August in Japan and around the world, wrapped in quiet reflection and heartfelt remembrance.