Sep 18, 2023
Respect for the Aged Day 2023
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s Doodle celebrates Respect for the Aged Day, known as Keirō no Hi or 敬老の日 in Japanese. In mid-September of 1947, a village in the Hyōgo Prefecture observed ‘Old Folks Day’ for the first time. The idea spread, local communities across Japan began hosting events in honor of the population's elders and Respect for the Aged Day was declared a national holiday in 1966.
While this holiday is relatively new, respect for the aged is not. The honorific system of speech, keigo, is used when speaking to people older than oneself to show respect. And now, the third Monday of every September is dedicated to those with vast knowledge and life experiences.
One of the primary ways people celebrate is by visiting their parents, grandparents, and other relatives to bring a gift, share a meal, or spend quality time together. Volunteers bring free bento-box lunches to their elderly neighbors, and the government gives a silver-plated sake cup to those who turned 100 in the year leading up to the holiday. The Japanese media dedicates programs to some of the oldest people in the country and interviews them about their experiences and tips for a long, healthy life. Keirokai ceremonies feature songs and dances by schoolchildren, whose vitality is rivaled by people in their later years who engage in sporting or fitness competitions.
Be sure to thank an elder today for their valuable advice, lessons, and stories. Happy Respect for the Aged Day, Japan!
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Initial concepts
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Where this Doodle appeared
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