Japanese Mountain Day: Celebrating Nature and Tradition in Japan

Interestingly, the 11th of August is celebrated as Mountain Day in Japan, a Japanese National Holiday I was unfamiliar with until now.

Japanese Mountain Day, or 山の日 (Yama no Hi), is a national holiday in Japan that celebrates the beauty of mountains and promotes mountain activities. It was officially established in 2016 to encourage people to appreciate and enjoy Japan’s mountainous landscapes and to foster a sense of respect for the natural environment.

The holiday offers a great opportunity for people to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and exploring mountainous regions. It also highlights the cultural and historical significance of mountains in Japan, which have been an integral part of Japanese spirituality and tradition for centuries.

In practice, many people use this day to visit national parks, participate in mountain-related events, or simply enjoy nature. It’s a time when local communities and organizations often hold events to promote environmental conservation and outdoor recreation.

Yesterday, we decided to hike up Kinkazan, an almost weekly ritual for us. We recorded footage of our journey up Kinkazan, capturing serene views from Nobunaga’s Gifu Castle over Gifu city and the surrounding area. This experience allowed us to truly appreciate the mountain’s beauty and connect with nature, making it a perfect way to celebrate Mountain Day. Stay tuned for the upcoming video showcasing our mountain hike adventure!