Shifting traditions for Respect for the Aged Day

For many expats in Japan, the first time you hear about Respect for the Aged Day (Keirō no Hi), it can feel both familiar and a little foreign. Traditionally celebrated on the third Monday of September, it's a day to honor older family members with gifts or visits. But a recent survey by the website keirounohi.jp shows that practices are evolving and even Japanese families aren't as rigid about gift-giving as you might expect.

Spoiler: it's not all about presents ;) Image created via Canva

According to the 2025 survey of 359 people nationwide, only 45 percent plan to give a gift this year, while one in three are still undecided. Another 20 percent say they don't plan to give gifts at all, often because of living situations, busy schedules, or elderly relatives being in care facilities. This suggests the day is becoming less about obligation and more about gestures that fit each family's situation.

Interestingly, while just under 40 percent of respondents said they give gifts every year, about a third give them every two to three years, and 8 percent focus on simply expressing gratitude without a physical gift. In other words, the essence of the day is shifting from what you give to how you show appreciation, if that's through a thoughtfully-worded card, a visit, or even a phone call.

If you're an expat with elderly family members here (e.g. you've married into a Japanese family), it seems that the key takeaway is that Respect for the Aged Day doesn't have to be a formal obligation, but moreso an opportunity to express care in whatever way works best for you and your family. 

If you're planning to participate, the site keirounohi.jp has gift ideas, rankings, and tips on how to make the day meaningful. Ultimately, it's the thought and attention behind the gesture, not the gift itself, that counts.

Info sourced from https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000000200.000098805.html