Undoubtedly, violence and war have taken too much, and this is why we pause to reflect on life on May 3, Japan’s Constitution Memorial Day. Regardless of which side of a conflict you’re on, sociopolitical rifts result in too much loss. Japan’s situation is comparable. Not only did the nation inflict violence on other nations, but it also endured severe consequences in return. Japan awoke one day to the loss of its cities, Hiroshima and Nagasaki, with many families shattered, children orphaned, and family members presumed deceased or missing. The United States successively attacked the two capitals with atomic bombs. The majority of the approximately 226,000 casualties were mere civilians. Japan surrendered in 1945 after suffering unprecedented losses and drafting a new constitution that prioritised civilian welfare and peace.
The background of Constitution Memorial Day
Japan’s Fundamental Law Memorial Day is observed annually on May 3. It is a national holiday and the second day of Japan’s Golden Week. Memorial Day is unique because it commemorates the new constitution that was formulated and enacted after Japan’s emperor, Emperor Showa, surrendered to the Allied Forces in 1945, specifically the United States. The finalisation and ratification of the new constitution required two years. Last but not least, on May 3, 1945, the Meiji Constitution was supplanted by the new constitution.
The Meiji Constitution placed a strong emphasis on conquest through violence and war. It had little regard for the well-being of its civilians. The newer constitution, on the other hand, emphasised upholding the sovereignty of its people, safeguarding them, and resolving any international conflicts without the use of force. The Japanese people favoured democracy because it would enable them to choose not only their own leaders but also the sets of principles that would best serve them and future generations.
Originally, Constitution Memorial Day was intended to be observed on November 3, the day the new constitution was ratified. Numerous individuals lobbied for November 3, but the date was not selected because it coincided with the beginning of the war crimes tribunals of imperial officers. Thus, the date of May 3 was chosen, which also occurred to be the day the new constitution replaced the previous one. Due to the fact that May 3 is a national holiday, many people visit the constitution building to take photographs and learn about its history. This is the only day the building and constitution documents are accessible to the general public.
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Since 2006, April 29 has been observed as Emperor Showa Day in recognition of the emperor’s endeavours during World War II.
Shigeru Yoshida, the former prime minister, intended this day to be observed on November 3, but it was moved because Emperor Meiji’s birthday also falls on that date.
Greenery Day is now commemorated on May 4; it was originally set aside for the birthday of Emperor Showa.
Only in 2019 was May 1 recognised as a national holiday, as it was the day that Crown Prince Naruhito ascended to the throne.
As the final holiday of Golden Week, this celebration takes place on May 5 and honours children and their unique characteristics.
CONSTITUTION MEMORIAL DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | May 3 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | May 3 | Friday |
| 2025 | May 3 | Saturday |
| 2026 | May 3 | Sunday |
| 2027 | May 3 | Monday |
