Marine Day

**Marine Day (海の日, Umi no Hi)** is a national holiday in Japan celebrated annually on the third Monday of July. Established in 1996, it is dedicated to expressing gratitude for the ocean's blessings and recognizing its importance to Japan as an island nation. The holiday originally commemorated the return of Emperor Meiji from a voyage to northern Japan in 1876, symbolizing the nation's connection to the sea. Marine Day encourages people to appreciate and reflect on the ocean's role in Japan's culture, economy, and environment. Many Japanese citizens take the opportunity to visit beaches, enjoy water-related activities, or participate in marine conservation efforts. It also serves as a reminder of the need to protect and preserve marine ecosystems for future generations. As a summer holiday, it often marks the beginning of the vacation season in Japan.