Mother’s Day in Japan is a cherished occasion that blends both modern and traditional customs. While it shares similarities with Mother’s Day celebrations around the world, Japan has its own unique way of honoring mothers. From the history behind the day to the significance of gifts like carnations, this guide explores how the Japanese celebrate and the cultural meaning that shapes their traditions. Whether you’re living in Japan or abroad, understanding these customs will give you a deeper appreciation for this special day.
Table of Contents
For more information on other Japanese seasonal customs, please refer to the article below.
Chapter 1: When is Mother’s Day in Japan?
Mother’s Day in Japan falls on the second Sunday of May, just like in the United States, Canada, and many other countries.
2025: May 11 (Sunday)
2026: May 10 (Sunday)
2027: May 9 (Sunday)
In Japan, people treat Mother’s Day as an important occasion. Families across the country celebrate the day with care and sincerity. Children and adults give flowers, write messages, and show appreciation through simple, heartfelt gestures.
Chapter 2: The History of Mother’s Day in Japan
People in Japan began celebrating Mother’s Day during the late Meiji era and early Taisho era. At that time, Ms. Alexander, a professor at Aoyama Gakuin University, introduced the American custom. Christian communities supported the idea and helped spread it across Japan.
When people think of Mother’s Day in Japan, they often picture red carnations. This tradition also came from the United States. In America, Anna Jarvis started Mother’s Day to honor her mother, Ann Jarvis, who worked to improve conditions for wounded soldiers. After her mother died, Anna gave a white carnation to remember her.
Americans first used white carnations to honor mothers who had passed away. Later, people began giving red carnations to honor mothers who were still with them. This custom reached Japan and became part of the way people celebrate the day. Today, many people in Japan give red carnations to their mothers as a symbol of love and gratitude.
Chapter 3: How Japanese People Celebrate Mother’s Day
In Japan, people start celebrating Mother’s Day in the second half of April. TV commercials run frequently, and department stores and supermarkets decorate their spaces with Mother’s Day posters and gift ideas. These signs appear everywhere and remind people to prepare something special for the actual day.
At preschools and elementary schools, children draw their mother’s portrait or write messages to show love and thanks. Families often display these drawings at home.
Adults buy carnations, sweets, or clothing that match their mother’s tastes. Some people invite their mother to a restaurant for dinner or plan a short trip together. Many choose gifts that create lasting memories and reflect their feelings.
Chapter 4: The Meaning of Carnations in Japan
In Japan, people often choose carnation colors based on their mother’s preferences. While red carnations remain the most popular choice, many also give pink or purple carnations to match their mother’s favorite color or personality.
Each color carries a special meaning:
Red: Love and admiration
Pink: Gratitude and gentle love
Purple: Respect and dignity
People avoid white and yellow carnations because of their negative meanings in Japanese culture. White carnations symbolize remembrance of a deceased mother. Yellow carnations represent contempt or jealousy. These messages feel inappropriate for a joyful celebration like Mother’s Day.
In addition to those, people also avoid giving the following flowers as gifts:
Spider lilies
Chrysanthemums
Camellias
These flowers often appear in funerals or carry associations with death and misfortune.
Choosing flowers with warm and positive meanings helps express appreciation and love. A carefully selected bouquet adds depth and sincerity to the gift.
