August: Quiet Holidays in Japan and the World

1. August in Japan: A Month of Prayer and Nature

Mountain Day

Date: August 11
Introduction:
Mountain Day was established in 2016 as a holiday to familiarize people with nature and give thanks for the blessings of mountains. 70% of Japan's land is mountainous, and people have deep ties to mountains, including mountain climbing, hiking, and mountain worship.
Mountain climbing events, nature experience programs, and festivals at shrines based on mountain worship are held on the day, as well as outdoor activities by families during summer vacation.

Memorial Day for the End of World War II (not officially a holiday)

Date: August 15
Introduction:
World War II ended on August 15, 1945, when Japan accepted the Potsdam Declaration. On this day, known as “The Day of the End of World War II, ” many Japanese people express their condolences for the war dead and renew their desire for peace.
Although it is not an official holiday, it is still widely regarded as a national day of prayer, as exemplified by the national memorial service for the war dead.

Obon Festival (August 13 – 16)

Obon is a traditional Japanese event to welcome and honor the spirits of ancestors. Many people return home to spend the holiday with their families.
Quiet and magical events like Mukaebi, Okuribi, and Toronagashi are held throughout Japan, and the feeling of remembering the departed blends into the summer scenery.

Obon welcoming fire and sending-off fire

2. August Around the World: A Month of Quiet Remembrance and Celebration of Freedom

Singapore National Day

Local Language: Hari Kebangsaan
Date: August 9
Introduction:
This is a national holiday commemorating India's independence from Malaysia in 1965. National flags are raised across the country with large parades, fireworks and musical events. At the same time, the day is a symbol of freedom and peace as memories of the country's history of overcoming wars and occupation are also shared.

Fireworks for Singapore's National Day

Independence Day

Local Language: (Svatantrata Divas)
Date: August 15
Introduction:
India, which gained independence from Britain in 1947, celebrates August 15 as its Foundation Day. In the capital Delhi, the Prime Minister raises the national flag and addresses the nation.
It is a day of gratitude for the gain of freedom and sacrifice, and resonates deeply with August, when attitudes toward war and peace coincide.

Acrobatic aircraft painting the sky with the colors of the Indian flag

Korean Liberation Day (✓/Gwangbokjeol)

Date: August 15
Introduction:
This is a national holiday in Korea commemorating the liberation of Japan from colonial rule (August 15, 1945). It means "the day we regained the light" and is celebrated by the whole country to honor the joy of independence and the sacrifices of our ancestors. It is a very symbolic holiday for Korea with commemorative ceremonies, national flag hoisting, and cultural events.

Acrobatic aircraft painting the sky with the colors of the Indian flag

3. Comparison Table: August Holidays in Japan and Around the World

4. Q & A: What is the significance of the August national holiday?

Q1. Why is the End of World War II Day not a national holiday?

After the war, it was not designated as a national holiday due to political considerations, as the Japanese people experienced the war from various perspectives. However, it is a spiritual milestone for many people, and has taken root as a substantial memorial day.

Q2. What is the background to the establishment of Mountain Day?

Mountain Day was established in response to strong requests from mountain climbers' and nature conservation groups. Following Ocean Day, a day to show appreciation for the blessings of the mountains was deemed necessary, and it was officially made a national holiday in 2016.

Q3. Are there any national holidays around the world with a prayer theme?

Yes. India's Independence Day and Korea's Liberation Day in August are not just celebrations, but also have the meaning of “prayer ” as people face up to the memories of past sacrifices. These holidays have a similar spirituality to Japan's Obon festival and the anniversary of the end of World War II.

5. Next preview: September Holidays: Passing on Respect and Wisdom at the Beginning of Autumn

Comparing the Meaning of Respect for the Aged Day and Autumnal Equinox Day

September is marked by Respect for the Aged Day, which honors the elderly, and Autumnal Equinox Day, which reflects on nature and ancestors.
In our next article, we will compare the beginning of autumn in Japan and around the world, focusing on the culture of respecting others and what people pray for at the change of seasons. Please look forward to it.