Blizzardboy | A Kiwi in Japan

No, not that American ‘punk’ skate band, Green Day is Japan’s newest public holiday. Otherwise known as midori no hi (day of green for all you norml supporters), Green Day marks the start of Golden Week.

Green Day originally celebrated the birthday of the Emperor Hirohito (Born: 29-Apr-1901) and on his death in 1989 the name was changed to Green Day to celebrate the former emperors love for the environment.

This year Golden Week runs for about 10 days. Of course this depends on where you work as some people have to work Monday and Friday which means a three day weekend and then back to work, then 3 days off then another day of work and another weekend. A lot of people in Japan travel during this time so ticket prices become a great deal more expensive and it is advisable to make any travel bookings at least 3 months in advance.

Most business, financial markets and government agencies are closed over the Golden Week period, so it is also a good idea to get some money out before the holiday. Although the banking system is slowly entering the 20th century, ATM’s still close and especially in more rural areas getting money can be a problem at this time of year.

(The Emperor Hirohito)