Hello, I am Yoshi from NILS Japanese language school. Today’s topic is the national holiday in Japan, Kinrokansha-no-hi 勤労感謝の日 or the Labor Thanksgiving Day. This holiday is celebrated on November 23 every year. It is a day to reaffirm the importance of labor and express gratitude to the working people. Originally, this day was called “Niiname-sai 新嘗祭” or the Harvest Festival, and was one of the ceremonies held in the old Emperor’s Court. One this day, the current Emperor still dedicates the new rice and grains of the year to the Shinto gods. After the rituals, he himself eats them in appreciation of the good harves.

November 22nd News, from NILS Japanese language school.