通訳・翻訳の(有)オフィスICC

海の日 (Umi no Hi)
Also known as Ocean Day, Marine Day or Sea Day is a Japanese national holiday celebrated every year on the third monday of July. Its purpose is to give thanks to the bounties of the ocean, and wish for the prosperity of Japan.

How was it originated?
1876
This year the Meiji Emperor went on a voyage on a steamship called “Meiji Maru.” This marked the first time the emperor went on such a voyage on a ship that wasn’t a battleship. Fifty days later, on July 20th he returned to Yokohama Port.

1941
In 1941, the day of the emperor’s return, July 20th, was established as “Marine Memorial Day” as as result of a proposal made by the Minister of Communications, Shozo Murata.

1995
July 20th, renamed as “Umi no Hi,” was officially established as a national holiday in 1995. “Umi no Hi” was the first national holiday observed during the summer season.

1998 - 2003
The Happy Monday System was legislated in 1998 and it moved a couple of holidays to a monday in order to create a longer weekend.

As a result, “Umi no Hi” was moved to the third monday of July in 2003.

How is it celebrated?
There are no traditional ways of celebrating this holiday, but many like to enjoy ocean related activities such as going to beach festivals and aquariums, as well as having a BBQ at the beach.

Now that you know about Ocean Day, I hope everyone enjoys their three day weekend!



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