Respect for the Aged Day
Nationwide public holiday in Japan · 敬老の日
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 21 September | Monday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 20 September | Monday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Japan.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Make it longer
Sat 18 Sep – Mon 20 Sep is a 3-day weekend with no leave needed.
Plan more breaks with the leave planner.
Typical weather in Tokyo around 20 September: high 27°C (81°F), low 21°C (69°F), rain on 64% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Tokyo. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Monday 20 September in Tokyo: (MET Norway)
About Respect for the Aged Day
Respect for the Aged Day, Keirō no Hi, honours elderly people who have long contributed to society and celebrates their long life. It became a national holiday in 1966, originally held on 15 September, and has been observed on the third Monday of September since 2003.
Traditions
Families visit or call grandparents and older relatives, often with gifts or a shared meal. Many local governments hold events for older residents and present gifts to those reaching certain ages. Around the date, the government publishes the number of centenarians in the country, which receives wide media coverage.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Japan
Thursday, 23 September 2027
More for Japan
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.