A day for abstinence

Today, and January 16th annually, is No Alcohol Day (禁酒の日) in Japan. It is a day commemorating the Prohibition Act in the United States, which was enacted on this day in 1920.

As far as I know, there was never a Prohibition Act in Japan, but there was a moment in Japanese history that the ideas of the Temperance Movement  were entertained in Japan. In 1885 to 1886 some groups were formed who believed in the ideology of the Temperance Movement which advocated for social reform against alcohol.

The current "No alcohol day" in Japan is more about reflecting on drinking habits and considering non alcoholic options. It’s framed as a gentle suggestion rather than a strict rule.