Marine Day honors the ocean's importance to Japan as an island nation, recognizing its role in providing food, transportation and prosperity. The holiday encourages appreciation for the sea and maritime culture. Many people visit beaches, participate in ocean-related events, and enjoy fireworks or festivals celebrating Japan's close connection to the sea.

When is Marine Day?

Marine Day is celebrated in Japan on the third Monday of July each year.

The following is the list of Marine Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Marine Day?

Marine Day is one of Japan's newer national holidays, established to celebrate the ocean's bounty and Japan's deep maritime heritage.

The origins of the holiday trace back to July 20, 1876, when Emperor Meiji returned safely to Yokohama aboard the steamship Meiji Maru after a voyage to the Tōhoku region. This event symbolized Japan's modernization and growing relationship with the sea. To commemorate that journey, "Marine Memorial Day" (Umi no Kinenbi) was introduced in 1941, though it was not a public holiday at the time.

In 1995, the Japanese government officially designated Marine Day as a national holiday, first celebrated on July 20, 1996. The purpose was to express gratitude for the ocean's gifts, reflect on Japan's maritime history, and promote awareness of ocean conservation.

As part of the Happy Monday System reform in 2003, Marine Day was moved to the third Monday of July, creating a long weekend and encouraging citizens to enjoy seaside recreation.

Today, Marine Day is celebrated across Japan with beach festivals, sailing events, and ocean conservation activities. In coastal cities like Yokohama and Kobe, ports and aquariums host public events to honor Japan's enduring connection with the sea, an essential part of its culture, economy and identity.