Sea Day (Umi no Hi – 海の日) is a national holiday to honor and thank the ocean for all the benefits it provides and show gratitude to the sea for being a source of so much wealth and raise awareness among citizens about the importance it has for Japan, a country surrounded by the sea.
It is the first summer holiday in Japan where many people take advantage of the holiday to spend a day at the beach, enjoy the summer breeze, swim, dive and talk.
On Sea Day, all aquariums organize special events, water shows and cultural activities related to the sea.
Sea Day only became a nationally recognized holiday in Japan in 1996. And as of 2003 it has been celebrated on the third Monday in July.
For a country surrounded by the sea, it is not surprising that there is a day of celebration and gratitude to the sea. The seas surrounding the country were important for isolation during the Edo period (1600-1867). Some commemorative dates in Japanese culture are linked to nature, such as the Spring Equinox and Green Day.
Sea Day National Holiday: 3rd Monday of July.