When is Sports Day 2024? | Family-friendly events and exercise habits
By October, the remaining heat of summer has passed and sports and health events, known as "Autumn Sports," are held all over the country.
It used to be called "Health and Sports Day," but now it has changed to "Sports Day."
Here we will explain how you should spend Sports Day.
If you found this helpful, I would appreciate it if you could share it.
If you would like to know more about other annual events, customs, and festivals in Japan,
" Learn more about annual events in traditional Japanese culture "

---- table of contents ----
Click below to jump
4. How to spend Sports Day with the family ~ Activities that make use of the culture of Sports Day ~
6. Why was the name of Sports Day changed?
-Changes from Sports Day and their significance-
10. Reaffirm your health through sports days ~How to develop an exercise habit~

1. A thorough explanation of the origin and meaning of Sports Day
Sports Day is a national holiday celebrated throughout Japan and was established to commemorate the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
At the time, the whole world was paying attention to Japan's sports culture, and "Health and Sports Day" was established with the intention of promoting the health of the nation through sports.
This holiday, which began in 1966, was originally fixed on October 10th, but with the introduction of the "Happy Monday System" in 2000, it was moved to the second Monday in October.
The day was renamed "Sports Day" in anticipation of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
Nowadays, it is important not only to encourage exercise but also to deepen connections with others through sports and maintain a healthy mind and body .
Physical activity is now recognised not just as a benefit to physical health, but as a way to improve mental health, relieve stress and strengthen social connections.
On this page, we would like to convey the importance of participating in sports, especially with your family .
Through sporting events that children can enjoy with their families and light exercise in the park, we hope to convey the joy of being able to exercise while enjoying the changing seasons of Japan's nature.
2. When is Sports Day? Holiday details and event information
Sports Day in 2024 is set for Monday, October 14th.
Many sporting events are held across the country on this day, making it a great opportunity to participate with family and friends.
For example, a "Sports Festival" is held in Tokyo, where outdoor walking events, sports classes for beginners, physical fitness tests, and more are held.
There is a corner for children where they can experience the fun of moving their body, as well as plenty of game-style events that the whole family can enjoy.
Additionally, unique events that make use of the local nature and history will be held in local cities as well.
For example, in Kyoto, walking tours that take in the historic cityscape are popular, allowing you to enjoy both exercise and sightseeing.
Fukuoka and Sapporo also have citizen-participation running events and special programs organized by local sports clubs.
Sports Day should not just be a day to exercise, but also be used as an opportunity to be conscious of health with family and friends.
In 2024, we hope that even those who don't usually exercise will take advantage of this holiday to get moving and try new sports experiences .
By the way, although it's a little early, Sports Day in 2025 will be on Monday, October 13th.
3. 5 events you should participate in on Sports Day!
Numerous events are held across the country on Sports Day , giving you plenty of opportunities to get involved with family and friends in every region.
Here are five events to watch in 2024.
1. Tokyo Sports Festival : This massive event has a variety of sports for everyone, including walking, fitness tests, volleyball, and basketball.
Many families participate, and there are plenty of programs for beginners, so you can easily get some exercise.
2. Yokohama Sports Festival : At this event, you can enjoy VR sports experiences incorporating the latest technology, as well as unique sports such as Mölkky.
There are many events that even beginners and children can enjoy.
3. Osaka Citizens' Sports Festival : Osaka offers a variety of free sports experiences throughout the city.
Many local residents participate in walking, jogging and other local sporting events.
4. Kyoto Walking Tour : A walking tour through the historic streets of Kyoto is a unique experience that combines sports and tourism.
Families are also welcome to participate.
5. Fukuoka Sports Festival : Fukuoka hosts a sports festival featuring local athletes together with the local community.
Local specialties will also be on sale at the same time, so you can enjoy sightseeing at the same time.
These events are designed to be fun for everyone and allow you to enjoy a new sporting experience with your family and friends.
4. How to spend a fun Sports Day with your family
Sports Day offers a wide range of activities for you and your family to enjoy.
It's the perfect opportunity to take a break from your busy daily routine and enjoy a healthy and fun day.
Here are some ways to get active and bond with your family while enjoying the pleasant fall weather.
1. Family walking : Walking is an exercise that the whole family can do, regardless of age.
Walking together in a nearby park or nature trail can give you a chance to talk at length about topics that you might not normally be able to discuss.
Walking while enjoying the autumn nature is a great opportunity to help children, in particular, experience the change of seasons.
2. In-home sports tournaments : We also recommend holding in-home sports tournaments, which can be enjoyed regardless of the weather.
For example, activities that can be done in the living room, such as balloon volleyball, simple stretching, or dancing, can be enjoyed by the whole family.
3. Cycling Day : If your family loves bikes, cycling is a great option.
Head to a nature area and enjoy a picnic with your family for a healthy day out.
Even kids who aren't great at exercise will be motivated if there's a fun destination to go to.
In this way, you can make the most of your sports day by engaging in activities that the whole family can enjoy together .
Cherish the time you spend with your family and lead a healthy life through exercise.

5. Use Sports Day as an opportunity to start a healthy habit! Recommended exercise methods
Sports Day is a great opportunity to start exercising.
For those who feel they don't get enough exercise on a regular basis, this day is an opportunity to incorporate a little bit of exercise into your daily routine.
It is said that regular moderate exercise improves mental and physical health and increases the quality of life.
First of all, we recommend easy exercises like walking or jogging.
Even those who are not used to exercising can continue without difficulty, and it puts little strain on the body.
Also, doing it together as a family can strengthen family bonds and allow you to share fun times together.
If you get into the habit of walking together on weekends, exercise will naturally become a part of your daily life.
We also recommend some light exercises you can do at home.
For example, squats and sit-ups can be done without any special equipment, and you can see results in a short amount of time.
By carrying on the spirit of Sports Day and incorporating these basic exercises into your daily routine, the whole family can lead a healthier lifestyle.
The key to continuing exercising is to enjoy it and do it without forcing yourself.
Start slowly at first and gradually increase the amount of exercise you do, and your body will get used to it and it will naturally become a habit.
The most important thing is to exercise in a fun way and without forcing yourself.
6. Why was the name of Sports Day changed?
The reason behind the change from Health and Sports Day to Sports Day is the spread of sports culture in Japan and the changing times.
Established to commemorate the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Health and Sports Day primarily focused on getting into shape through exercise and gymnastics.
At the time, Japan was going through a period of post-war reconstruction and one of the national priorities was to promote the health and physical fitness of its citizens. This was the background to Health and Sports Day as a holiday to promote sports to the entire nation.
However, as time has passed, sports have evolved from simply a means of improving physical fitness to an important element in maintaining physical and mental health and promoting interaction with others.
For this reason, in 2020, "Health and Sports Day" was renamed "Sports Day," and became a day that contributes not only to physical fitness, but also to communication with others and improving mental health.
The change recognises a wider range of exercise forms and purposes, and now includes not only specific competitive sports and gymnastics, but also light sports such as walking, yoga and dance.
The sports culture that Japan brought about by Health and Sports Day has now spread more widely among families and local communities, forming the foundation for living a healthy and energetic life.
7. Special feature on noteworthy events taking place on Sports Day [National Edition]
Sports Day is an exciting day when various sporting events are held all over the country.
There are plenty of opportunities for families, friends and the local community to come together and have fun.
Here are some of the events that are attracting national attention.
1. Shinjuku Sports Festival (Tokyo): This is a large-scale event held every year in Tokyo where you can enjoy sports classes, physical fitness tests, and competitions such as volleyball and basketball.
There are many programs aimed especially at beginners, and they are designed to make it easy for people of all ages to participate, from children to adults.
2. Yokohama Sports and Leisure Festival (Kanagawa): In Yokohama city, you can enjoy new sports experiences such as Mölkky and VR sports.
The interactive event, which incorporates technological advances, is fun for the whole family and is gaining in popularity.
3. Izumo Ekiden (Shimane): Top university runners from all over the country gather in this relay race held in Shimane Prefecture.
You can enjoy watching the game with your family and friends and cheering on the team.
This tournament is also famous as an event that symbolizes Japan's Ekiden culture.
These events continue the spirit of Health and Sports Day and aim to promote community bonding and health through sport.
It will be an opportunity to spend the day together as a family and rediscover the joys of physical activity.
8. Special Sports Day Activities for Kids and Adults
Sports Day features a host of activities for all ages to enjoy.
One of the great things about exercise is that it allows the whole family to have fun while also being conscious of their health.
Here are some fun activities for both kids and adults:
1. Family Picnic and Sports Day : Enjoy some sports that the whole family can participate in at a nearby park.
For example, a picnic that incorporates light exercise such as badminton, frisbee, or soccer can be a great way to have fun and exercise. It's also important to bring a packed lunch and have time to eat together as a family after the exercise.
2. Children's events held at local sports centers : Many local governments open their gyms and sports centers to the public on Sports Day and hold events that allow children to play for free or at a discount.
There are lots of fun activities here, such as swimming lessons and physical fitness tests, giving children their first opportunity to experience sports.
3. Family cycling in nature : It is also recommended to take your family to areas rich in nature that you don't usually go to by bicycle. Light cycling allows family members who are not good at exercise to easily participate and rediscover the fun of moving your body. It is also a good idea to set a destination and enjoy a delicious lunch together.
Following on from Sports Day, these events and activities are designed to allow families to spend quality time together through exercise. It will be an important day to forget the busyness of everyday life and refresh the body and mind through sports.

9. A detailed explanation of the difference between Sports Day and Physical Education Day! Let's learn the history
The difference between Sports Day and Physical Education Day is not just a change of name.
Established to commemorate the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Health and Sports Day primarily focused on getting into shape through exercise and gymnastics.
At that time, Japan was going through a period of post-war reconstruction and one of the national priorities was promoting the health and physical fitness of its citizens.
This is the background to Health and Sports Day as a holiday to promote sports to the entire nation.
However, as time has passed, sports have evolved from simply a means of improving physical fitness to an important element in maintaining physical and mental health and promoting interaction with others.
For this reason, in 2020, "Health and Sports Day" was renamed "Sports Day," and became a day that contributes not only to physical fitness, but also to communication with others and improving mental health.
The change recognises a wider range of exercise forms and purposes, and now includes not only specific competitive sports and gymnastics, but also light sports such as walking, yoga and dance.
The sports culture that Japan brought about by Health and Sports Day has now spread more widely among families and local communities, forming the foundation for living a healthy and energetic life.
10. Reaffirm your health on Sports Day! The importance of exercise habits
Sports Day is a great opportunity to reaffirm your awareness of health and incorporate exercise into your daily life.
Lack of exercise is one of the major issues in modern society, and it is important to maintain an exercise habit in order to avoid health risks.
Moderate exercise not only reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes, but also supports mental health.
On the other hand, you may find it difficult to find time to exercise in your busy daily life.
However, it might be a good idea to start with small steps, using sports day as an opportunity.
For example, you can gradually incorporate exercise into your daily life by walking one stop when commuting to work or shopping, or by using the stairs instead of the elevator.
In addition, by having the whole family enjoy exercise through sports days , it helps to maintain the health of the whole family .
You can build a healthy lifestyle through activities that the whole family can participate in, such as weekend walks, bike rides or family yoga sessions.
With the change from Physical Education Day to Sports Day , the significance of exercise has expanded even further, making physical activity more accessible and easier.
Take this opportunity to develop an exercise habit with your family and friends and enjoy healthy living every day.
10. Reaffirm your health on Sports Day! The importance of exercise habits
Sports Day is a great opportunity to reaffirm your awareness of health and incorporate exercise into your daily life.
Lack of exercise is one of the major issues in modern society, and it is important to maintain an exercise habit in order to avoid health risks.
Moderate exercise not only reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes, but also supports mental health.
On the other hand, you may find it difficult to find time to exercise in your busy daily life.
But it's a good idea to start with small steps, using sports day as an opportunity.
For example, you can gradually incorporate exercise into your daily life by walking one stop when commuting to work or shopping, or by using the stairs instead of the elevator.
In addition, by having the whole family enjoy exercise through sports days , it helps to maintain the health of the whole family .
Activities that the whole family can participate in, such as weekend walks, bike rides or family yoga sessions, can help you build a healthy lifestyle.
With the change from Physical Education Day to Sports Day , the significance of exercise has expanded even further, making physical activity more accessible and easier.
Take this opportunity to develop an exercise habit with your family and friends and enjoy healthy living every day.
11. Special feature on local sports day events [2024 edition]
Sports Day is a great opportunity to take part in a variety of community events held across the country.
There are many sporting events held that make use of the characteristics of each region, and they are designed to make it easy for anyone to participate.
Here we introduce some notable local events for 2024.
1. Hokkaido Sports Festival : Hokkaido hosts outdoor sports events set against the backdrop of magnificent nature.
Particularly popular are walking and hiking activities combined with nature walks. There are many courses that families can participate in, and the experience of sports while enjoying the autumn scenery is exceptional.
2. Hyogo Sports Day : In Hyogo Prefecture, local gyms and parks open their doors to the public and host free sports classes and events.
Family sports tournaments and physical fitness testing events are especially popular, attracting health-conscious participants.
There will also be exercises for beginners and networking events with local athletes.
3. Fukuoka City Sports Festival : In Fukuoka, various sporting events are held by local communities.
Particularly, community-based sports tournaments and experiential events held at major sports facilities in the city are attracting attention.
There are often events held at the same time that allow visitors to enjoy local specialties, making it a fun experience for the whole family.
These events, which inherit the spirit of Health and Sports Day , are not just for exercise but also serve to revitalize the local area and strengthen community ties. Come join us with your family and friends in the pleasant autumn weather, enjoy sports, and deepen your connections with the local community.
12. Summary: Make the most of Sports Day and enjoy exercise
Sports days are a great way to get active and healthy with family and friends in your busy daily life.
Health and Sports Day, which began in commemoration of the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, has evolved into the current "Sports Day," and has changed the public's awareness toward improving their physical and mental health through exercise.
It's also strange that the names of national holidays changed between the first and second Tokyo Olympics.
Over the course of 50 years, the way we see things and our values change.
Going for a walk or bike ride together as a family or taking part in a local sporting event is a fun and healthy way to spend the day.
In addition, incorporating exercise into your daily life is a step towards achieving a healthier lifestyle.
Through Sports Day, we hope you will rediscover the joy of exercise and the importance of health, and enjoy this holiday every year.
And using this day as a starting point to feel the happiness of being healthy and spend time filled with smiles will have a positive impact on your future life.
Let's spread the joy of physical activity for a healthy and happy future.