Marine Day Magic: Japan’s Rich Maritime Heritage

Everyone knows about World Ocean Day but did you know Japan has its own national version of this holiday? Umi no hi (海の日 also known as Marine Day, Sea Day or Ocean Day) is celebrated on the third Monday in July every year to show appreciation for the ocean’s provisions and promote its importance to Japan. It has been officially observed since 1996, but in 1941 it was first designated to celebrate the Meiji Emperor and the sailing of his iron steamship the Meiji Maru in 1874. During this journey, they sailed around the Tohoku region to Aomori’s lighthouse boat with a brief stop in Hakodate before returning to Yokohama.

Fun Fact: Did you know that it was first known as umi no kinen bi (Marine Memorial Day, 海の記念日)?

But why is this day important? Everyone is aware of the fun seaside activities Japan has to offer and the delicious seafood dishes like Takoyaki or Shioyaki (Japanese grilled fish) but have you heard about Japan’s native religion, Shintoism? One of the main Shinto beliefs revolves around respect for nature and its connection to divine spirits or deities. It is this relationship that prompts gratitude for the immense bounties we are blessed with from the food on our table to the stunning beaches.

Now for the main question: What do you do on Marine Day? Well, there is no right or wrong way to celebrate. Seaside towns may hold beach-clean ups to encourage more environmentally friendly activities. Since July marks the beginning of summer, a lot of people visit the beaches or take part in water sports competitions like surfing. Unlike Obon, this holiday does not carry many traditional aspects and it is totally up to you how to celebrate. Want to sit back and relax? Okinawa and Kerama Islands are a must-visit with their pristine, white, sandy beaches meeting the shimmering crystal waves. Staying in Tokyo? Enoshima, Chiba, Yokohama and Kamakura are all stunning beach-front locations accessible via train for a fun-filled day trip. Want to soak and relieve your tense muscles, why not head on over to Saki-no-Yu Onsen Spa in Shirahama or the renowned Beppu Onsen, in Oita?

Rainy weather? No worries! You can still celebrate Marine Day by visiting aquariums such as Churaumi Aquarium in Okinawa, Kaiyukan Aquarium in Osaka and Enoshima Aquarium in Kanagawa. They all hold special activities for the public on marine life like exhibitions, workshops and lectures! Spending some time with our saltwater and freshwater friends would definitely be on my to-do list!

The Lantern Festival in Odaiba Marine Park can give you a super magical experience with hundreds of beautiful paper lanterns lining the beach. An aerial view of these glowing lanterns will give you an image! Whilst waiting for night to crawl in, you can enjoy songs from local musicians, take a cruise to enjoy the scenery, stroll along the beach or even try the freshly grilled oysters sold by street vendors! This is the perfect way to unwind and spend the evening with family and friends!

Another fun activity is witnessing the spectacular fireworks display at the Nagoya Port Festival. Don’t worry there are activities during the day too like the rafter’s contest, traditional Japanese dances, taiko (traditional drum) performances and live music! This gives you a little more of the traditional Japanese vibes with a bang at the end. Get ahead of the crowd if you want a great place to see the fireworks and the entertainment.

I’ve mentioned Enoshima before but I wanted to tell you a little more about this seaside island off the Shonan coast. There is a lot more to do than going to festivals, beaches and aquariums after all! The island has a shrine dedicated to the Goddess of poetry and music, Benzaiten. Now that’s not very relevant to Marine Day, but legend has it that she created Enoshima to imprison a sea dragon in the Iwaya Caves. Maybe you’ll meet the sea dragon himself and he can tell you his tale? That would be cool now, wouldn’t it? Sea Candle lighthouse/mobile phone tower is also not very far from Enoshima Shrine and it offers a magnificent view of Mount Fuji, perfect for photos. If the beach is your vibe, you can be sure to find Shonan beach parties in full swing.

From festivals to aquariums, hanging out by the sea, or enjoying some heartwarming seafood dishes, there are tons of activities you can take part in on Marine Day! The secret is to just enjoy yourself. So, what will you be doing this year?

Coming to Japan for Umi no Hi? Why not join a culinary tour and discover Japan as a local?

Featured Photo: 7maru

 

 

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