Japan’s National Holidays

New adults in their finest kimono on Coming of Age Day.

Well-wishers gather to see Emperor Akihito at a 2012 public ceremony at the Imperial Palace on December 23, the previous emperor's birthday.

Carp streamers fluttering in the breeze are a symbol of Children’s Day.

Olympic weightlifter Yagi Kanae warms up with children at a Tokyo event marking 2013’s Health and Sports Day. (© Jiji)