Mountain Day

**Mountain Day (山の日, Yama no Hi)** is a national holiday in Japan celebrated annually on **August 11** (or the following Monday if August 11 falls on a weekend). Established in 2014 and first observed in 2016, Mountain Day was created to honor Japan's mountainous terrain, which covers about 70% of the country, and to encourage people to appreciate and enjoy the natural beauty of its mountains. The holiday reflects Japan's deep cultural and spiritual connection to its mountains, which have long been revered in Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Many people use the day to hike, climb, or simply relax in mountainous areas, while others participate in festivals, events, or educational activities about mountain conservation. Mountain Day is part of Japan's broader effort to promote outdoor activities and environmental awareness. It also provides a mid-summer break for many Japanese workers, as it falls during the Obon festival season, a time when families often travel to their hometowns. Whether through adventure or quiet reflection, Mountain Day celebrates the enduring significance of mountains in Japan's landscape and culture.