Tomorrow (Friday, December 23) is the Emperor’s Birthday (天皇誕生日) – a Japanese national holiday! The date is determined by the reigning Emperor’s birthdate, Akihito, who was born on this date in 1933.
The 23rd has been observed as a National Holiday since Emperor Akihito acceded the throne, in 1989. On this occasion, a public ceremony takes place at the Imperial palace. This one of the only two holidays during the year when the gates of the palace are open to the public. If you’re lucky to get in, you’ll see the Emperor accompanied by the Empress and other members of the Imperial Family. They come out on the balcony to greet the public. The crowd will congratulate the Emperor, waving tiny Japanese flags.
The school will be open only for the intensive classes and the day will mark the school’s Winter Break! See you back on January 5th!