Culture Day (文化の日 Bunka-no-hi). Before 1948 this
holiday was held as the Emperor Birthday to honor the reigning emperor of that
period – Meiji. Then it was renamed into its current name that reflected new views
of political authorities of the country aimed at developing culture in the vein
of freedom and peace ideals. Every year on Culture Day there are about 5
thousand people who receive government awards for contribution to cultural
development. The highest awards are presented by the Emperor himself, lower
awards – by the members of the Cabinet. Foreigners who have made the most
significant contribution to development of relations between their countries
and Japan
or who have been successful in Japanese oriental studies are also honored with
such awards.
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