A day for Japan's domestic pine

On March 31st I wrote about "Southern Yellow Pine Day" in Japan. But Southern Yellow Pine is not grown domestically in Japan and is imported. So, it might be why there is another day - today, May 8th - specifically for Japanese or domestically grown pine: Pine Day 松の日 (Matsu no Hi).

"Pine Day" is a areminder of how deeply the pine tree is woven into Japan's landscape and culture. The day was established by the Japan Greenery Protection Association, whose mission is to ensure the country's iconic pine trees are cared for and preserved for future generations. The date of the anniversary was chosen to commemorate the organization's first nationwide meeting on May 8th, 1981. Early May is also when pine foliage looks especially vibrant and it follows closely after the May 4th Greenery Day national holiday in celebration of all of nature's greens. 

Pines have long been regarded as sacred in Japan, believed to host deities and symbolizing longevity. Their evergreen needles represent endurance and with the auspicious pine-bamboo-plum trio, pine holds the highest rank. Even the familiar New Year decorations "Kadomatsu" are made from pine as a sacred marker to welcome the New Year Gods. "Pine Day" is a reminder of their significance and need to be appreciated and protected.