Respect for the Aged Day 2024: History, Theme, and Significance

Respect for the Aged Day is a public holiday in Japan to honor elderly people. It began in 1966 and was celebrated every year on September 15. Since 2003, it has been held on the third Monday of September due to Japan’s “Happy Monday System.” The day in 2024 is observed on 16 September.

The History of Respect for the Aged Day

This holiday began after World War II in a small town called Nomatanimura (now Yachiyocho) in Japan’s Hyōgo Prefecture. In 1947, the town’s mayor, Masao Kadowaki, wanted people to respect the elderly (those 55 and older) because of the wisdom they could offer after the war’s hardships. He named September 15 “Old Folks’ Day” or Toshiyori no Hi.

Some legends say that the date was chosen because of a miracle at Yoro Falls, where a young man’s father was cured. Others say it was based on a legendary prince, Shotoku, who created a home for the elderly. Over time, the holiday became popular across Japan and was renamed Keiro no Hi. It became a national holiday in 1966. However, when Japan introduced the Happy Monday System, the holiday moved to the third Monday of September. This change was made to give workers more three-day weekends.

How to Celebrate Respect for the Aged Day

Respect for the Aged Day, or Keiro no Hi, is about celebrating the elderly for their contributions and wisdom. People can celebrate in different ways. Some spend time with older family members, share meals, or do activities together. Others help their community by volunteering at senior centers. Small acts of kindness like helping with chores or driving them to appointments are common too. There are often cultural events and performances to entertain and involve elderly people. This day reminds us of the importance of respecting our elders and learning from their life experiences.

A Special Gift for Centenarians

Since 1963, Japan has honored people who turn 100 years old by giving them a silver cup. In the first year, 153 people received it. As more people lived to 100, the government started making smaller cups in 2009 to save money. By 2014, over 29,000 people received a cup, and in 2017, more than 32,000 people were given one, along with a letter from the Prime Minister. To save even more money, the cups are now made with cheaper materials and have only a silver coating, which saves about one million dollars each year.

Respect for the Aged Day dates

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