Updated on November 8, 2024

Just like how many countries have their own holidays specific to their country, Japan also has holidays that aren't necessarily celebrated globally. One of these holidays that is just around the corner is Taiku no hi or Health-Sports Day. Health-Sports Day was created to commemorate the summer Olympics of 1964, and is a day dedicated to promoting physical and mental health, and an active lifestyle.

Many schools use this day to hold their undokai or sports day. Schools will make this an entire day event where they organize various field-and-track activities and small sports games, as well as tug of war. Children compete in groups or individual in relays and sports games to win practical prizes.Children also move along to music in an activity called rajio taisou or radio exercise.  

This day functions as a day to release energy and stress, and promotes wellness. This day occurs the second monday in October, and for the year 2017, will occur October 9th, so get your workout shoes and get ready to move! =]