Why Marine Day Is More Than Just Fun!

Marine Day is the only national holiday in July, the hottest month in Japan. It’s a perfect day for people to enjoy fun and refreshing activities related to the sea. It’s also a lovely time for people to reflect on their deep connection to nature, not just the sea, but all of the Earth’s gifts. It’s a celebration of gratitude and hope! Let’s take a closer look at this unique summer holiday in Japan!

What is Marine Day?

Marine Day, also called Umi no Hi, is a happy holiday in Japan every year on the third Monday of July. In 2025, Umi no Hi will be on July 21st. It’s a special time when people in Japan say “thank you” to the ocean for all the good things it gives, like fish, fun beaches, and stunning sea views! 

Along with other nature holidays like Greenery Day and Mountain Day, Marine Day shows how much the country respects the earth. The sea surrounds Japan, so this holiday reminds everyone how important the ocean is to their daily lives.

What is the background of Marine Day?

In 1876, the Meiji Emperor took a memorable sea trip on a ship called the Meiji Maru. He traveled around northern Japan, including Tohoku and Hokkaido, and safely returned to the Port of Yokohama on July 20. People thought this trip was important and wanted to remember this exciting journey. So, in 1941, they called Marine Memorial Day to remember the Emperor’s safe return and honor Japan’s strong connection to the sea.

However, it wasn’t until 1996 that Marine Day became an official national holiday. Later, in 2003, a rule called the Happy Monday System moved Marine Day to the third Monday in July to give everyone a fun three-day weekend in the summer.

But sometimes, Umi no Hi also gets notable changes to match significant events in the country. In 2020, Marine Day was moved to July 23 just for that year because of the Tokyo Summer Olympics. Then in 2021, since the Olympics were delayed due to the pandemic, the holiday stayed on that new date again.

How do people in Japan celebrate this day?

Umi no Hi is a newer holiday in Japan, so there aren’t any old or traditional customs for this day. But that doesn’t stop people in Japan from celebrating it in fun ways! Many people head to the beach to enjoy the sunshine and cool ocean water. They spend the day swimming, diving, snorkeling, or surfing with friends and family. Popular beaches like Isshiki Beach in Hayama get crowded. There are even water sports competitions and exciting water shows!

Some folks visit aquariums, where special holiday events make the day extra exciting. You might see dolphins perform, learn about sea animals, or participate in sea-themed games and crafts. Others may take the chance to help the ocean by participating in conservation activities, like cleaning up beaches or attending workshops to learn more about protecting marine life.

One enjoyable activity that’s become popular in recent years is mud-ball throwing! People throw dried balls of mud filled with good bacteria called “EMs” into rivers or the ocean. These little mud balls help clean the water and keep the sea healthy. It’s an excellent way to help the environment and have fun simultaneously! 

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Where should we go to enjoy this holiday?

Yokohama Port

Yokohama Port opened in 1859 and was Japan’s first modern international port. It’s closer to the ocean than Tokyo Port, so cruise ships save time and fuel, and visitors get more time to explore! It’s in the middle of Yokohama, so you can easily walk to shops, parks, and sightseeing spots. 

On Marine Day, Yokohama Port becomes even more exciting! People come to enjoy the sea, watch ships, and go on enjoyable cruise rides. Sometimes, they can also see special celebrations like bright ship parades, fun boat shows, and dazzling firework displays.

Odaiba Marine Park

Odaiba Marine Park is an excellent place in Tokyo right by the bay! It has a man-made beach, lovely green lawns, and a clear view of the famous Rainbow Bridge. Even though you can’t swim there, you can try fun water sports like windsurfing or just relax on the sand. One of the park’s highlights is a Statue of Liberty replica. Odaiba usually lights up with the beautiful Lantern Festival on Marine Day. Over 50,000 shimmering lanterns glow near the Rainbow Bridge. 

Enoshima

Enoshima is a small island near Tokyo. It has been a favorite spot for visitors for a long time, with well-known shrines, cool caves, a tall lighthouse, and even a statue of a dragon! You can walk around the island, admire the pretty views of the ocean, and maybe even see Mount Fuji on a clear day.

The holiday makes Enoshima even more lively! Visitors come to enjoy the shining ocean, explore the Sea Candle, and snap photos of the lovely sunset. The nearby beach gets busy with families enjoying the sun, while surfers ride the waves.

Why does Marine Day matter?

Marine Day matters because it gives people in Japan a chance to enjoy the summer and spend time with family and friends by the sea. It’s a joyful break where many head to beaches, islands, and parks to relax and make memories together. At the same time, it reminds everyone of the gifts the ocean brings and encourages us to show care and respect for nature.

More and more people in Japan now participate in meaningful activities during this holiday. These simple acts help protect the ocean and remind us that every little effort counts. How do you usually like to spend time at the beach? Feel free to share your favorite summer memory or a small way you help care for the ocean!