Why Japan Celebrates Pocky Day, Cat Day, and Other Fun Holidays
Japan has plenty of well-known holidays, but some of its most entertaining celebrations are dedicated to chocolate snacks, cats, and even ice cream!
These playful occasions are called kinenbi (記念日), or commemorative days. Many are inspired by Japanese wordplay, familiar sounds, or clever number combinations.
Here are four fun Japanese celebrations worth knowing.
Pocky Day: November 11
Ever noticed how four number ones look like biscuit sticks?
That’s the idea behind Pocky & Pretz Day, established by Japanese snack company Glico in 1999. November 11 (11/11) was chosen because the number 1 resembles the long, thin shape of Pocky and Pretz.
People can mark the occasion by sharing snacks with friends, trying different flavors, or enjoying special promotions. It’s a delicious excuse to celebrate!
Cat Day: February 22
Cat lovers, this one’s for you!
In Japanese, cats say nyan nyan instead of “meow.” The date 2/22 is a playful reference to nyan nyan nyan, the Japanese sound of a cat meowing.
Established in 1987, Cat Day celebrates the joy of living with cats. Expect cat-themed merchandise, treats, and plenty of adorable feline content.
February 22 is Japan’s Cat Day, a playful celebration inspired by the Japanese sound of a cat’s meow.
Ice Cream Day: May 9
Here’s another sweet celebration!
Japan’s Ice Cream Day dates back to 1964, when the Tokyo Ice Cream Association designated May 9 as a day to promote the frozen treat.
The association also organized ice cream events and distributed ice cream to hospitals and welfare facilities as part of its early celebrations.
Today, ice cream-related events and promotions give dessert lovers another reason to enjoy their favorite flavors.
Japan celebrates Ice Cream Day every May 9, giving dessert lovers another reason to enjoy a frozen treat.
Good Couples Day: November 22
Japanese wordplay also celebrates relationships.
November 22 can be read as ii fūfu, meaning “good married couple,” through Japanese number wordplay called goroawase.
The occasion encourages couples to appreciate each other and express gratitude. It’s a charming example of how everyday numbers can carry special meaning in Japan.
Discover Japanese Culture Through Everyday Moments
These commemorative days aren’t national public holidays. They’re lighthearted celebrations that reveal Japan’s creativity and playful use of language.
For students learning Japanese, recognizing expressions like nyan nyan and ii fūfu makes everyday conversations more interesting.
During a short-term study experience, even a trip to the convenience store can become a small cultural discovery.
Interested in exploring Japanese language and culture firsthand? Learn more about KCP International’s Japanese Culture and Society course.
