Japanese School Calendar 2024

As a foreign student living in Japan, I have learned a lot about Japanese culture and traditions. One of the most interesting things I have discovered is the Japanese School Calendar. In this article, I will share my personal experience and the details of the Japanese School Calendar for 2024.

What is Japanese School Calendar?

The Japanese School Calendar is a system that determines the schedules of academic activities in Japan. It is unique compared to other countries as it has a unique way of starting and ending the academic year.

The academic year in Japan starts in April and ends in March. This system was introduced during the Meiji period, and it is still being followed today. It is also divided into three terms, which are Spring Semester, Fall Semester, and Winter Semester.

Spring Semester

The Spring Semester starts in April and ends in July. During this semester, students have to attend classes for about 60 days. The school also has a two-week-long break in May, which is known as Golden Week.

Golden Week is a series of public holidays in Japan, which includes Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children’s Day. During this time, many students and families take a vacation or visit their relatives.

Fall Semester

The Fall Semester starts in September and ends in December. This semester is similar to the Spring Semester as it also has a two-week-long break in October, which is known as Autumn Break.

During Autumn Break, there are two public holidays, which are Respect for the Aged Day and Health and Sports Day. Many students and families take this time to travel or enjoy outdoor activities.

Winter Semester

The Winter Semester starts in January and ends in March. This semester is shorter than the other two as it only lasts for about 40 days. Students have to attend classes during this period, and there are no long breaks.

List of Events and Festivals in Japanese School Calendar 2024

There are many events and festivals that are celebrated throughout the year in Japan. Here are some of the prominent ones that are included in the Japanese School Calendar for 2024:

• New Year’s Day – January 1st
• Coming of Age Day – January 8th
• National Foundation Day – February 11th
• Vernal Equinox Day – March 20th
• Greenery Day – May 4th
• Children’s Day – May 5th
• Marine Day – July 15th
• Mountain Day – August 11th
• Respect for the Aged Day – September 16th
• Sports Day – October 14th
• Culture Day – November 3rd
• Labor Thanksgiving Day – November 23rd
• Emperor’s Birthday – December 23rd

Events and Festivals Celebration for Japanese School Calendar 2024

One of the most significant events in the Japanese School Calendar is the Coming of Age Day. This day celebrates young people who have turned 20 years old, which is considered the age of adulthood in Japan.

During this day, young people dress up in traditional Japanese clothing and attend ceremonies held at their local city halls. They also visit shrines or temples to pray for their health and success in the future.

Another significant event in the Japanese School Calendar is the Cherry Blossom Festival or Hanami. This festival is held in March or April, depending on when the cherry blossoms bloom. Many people gather under the cherry blossom trees to have picnics and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Question and Answer (Q&A) and FAQs Section about Japanese School Calendar 2024

Q: When does the academic year start and end in Japan?

A: The academic year in Japan starts in April and ends in March.

Q: How many semesters are there in the Japanese School Calendar?

A: The Japanese School Calendar has three semesters, which are Spring Semester, Fall Semester, and Winter Semester.

Q: When is Golden Week in Japan?

A: Golden Week is a series of public holidays in Japan, which includes Showa Day, Constitution Memorial Day, Greenery Day, and Children’s Day. It is usually held from the end of April to the beginning of May.

Q: What is Hanami?

A: Hanami is a festival in Japan that celebrates the blooming of cherry blossom trees. Many people gather under the trees to have picnics and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Q: What is Coming of Age Day?

A: Coming of Age Day is a Japanese national holiday that celebrates young people who have turned 20 years old, which is considered the age of adulthood in Japan.

In conclusion, the Japanese School Calendar is a unique system that has its own set of events and festivals. It is interesting to learn about the different traditions and celebrations that are held throughout the year. By understanding the Japanese School Calendar, foreign students and visitors can better appreciate and immerse themselves in Japanese culture.