Olive Day

What Is Olive Day?

March 15 is "Olive Day," established in 1972 (Showa 47) by the Shodoshima Olive Preservation Society in Kagawa Prefecture. It commemorates a historical event on March 15, 1950 (Showa 25), when Emperor Showa visited Shodoshima Island and personally planted olive seeds. The day celebrates the spirit of olives as a symbol of peace, sharing the appeal of olives from Shodoshima, the heart of Japan's olive cultivation, with the rest of the country.

Historical Facts About Olive Cultivation in Japan

Shodoshima's reputation as "Olive Island" stems from both its climate and the relentless efforts of past generations.

• Successful domestic cultivation: In 1908 (Meiji 41), the Ministry of Agriculture and Commerce began trial olive cultivation in Mie, Kagoshima, and Kagawa prefectures. Shodoshima, with a climate similar to the Mediterranean, was the only location where the trees successfully took root.
• A symbol of peace: The olive is famously regarded as a symbol of peace and hope, originating from the story of Noah's Ark in the Old Testament. The olive branch is also famously depicted on the emblem of the United Nations flag, representing a wish for world peace.

Scientifically Backed Health and Beauty Benefits

Olive fruit and oil are rich in components that protect the body from oxidative stress.

• The power of oleic acid: Oleic acid, the main component of olive oil, has been medically proven to help reduce "bad" cholesterol, prevent arteriosclerosis, and improve gut health.
• A wealth of antioxidants: Rich in polyphenols and vitamin E, olives are valued for their anti-aging effects in preventing cellular aging, and are widely used not only as food but also in cosmetics.

Interesting Facts About Olives

• One of the world's oldest cultivated plants: Olives have been cultivated since thousands of years BCE, making them one of the oldest plants utilized by humans.
• The definition of "first press": Extra virgin olive oil is essentially a "juice" obtained simply by pressing the fruit, with no chemical processing involved. Only oils that meet strict standards, including acidity levels, can carry this designation.
• Trees that live for millennia: Olive trees are extremely long-lived. Along the Mediterranean coast, trees more than 2,000 years old still exist and continue to bear fruit.
• Removing the bitterness: Freshly picked olives are intensely bitter and inedible as-is, requiring a careful curing process using lye or saltwater to remove the bitterness.
• The lucky "heart-shaped" leaf: At olive parks on Shodoshima, finding a rare "heart-shaped leaf" is considered a lucky charm believed to bring happiness.

Spread the Branch of Peace and Embrace Inner Richness

Olive Day is a day to nurture "peace" and "wellness" within yourself. The silvery-green leaves swaying in the wind remind us of the value of resilience without breaking, and of nurturing fresh wisdom. On March 15, why not drizzle some golden olive oil over your meal, or imagine wearing a crown of olive leaves to find a moment of inner stillness? The richness that comes from within will help you shine more elegantly and healthily. Just as a single seed of peace can grow into a great forest, your small kindnesses can spread warmth and healing to those around you.

Tips for Enjoying Olive Day

• Drizzle fresh extra virgin olive oil over bread or tofu and enjoy a "tasting" that engages all your senses with its fruity aroma and peppery kick
• In the spirit of the olive as a symbol of peace, send a gentle message to a friend or loved one you've lost touch with - a small act of "peace diplomacy" of your own
• To mark March 15 (Olive Day), use olive-based soap or cream to moisturize skin that's been dried out by winter, and take a moment to care for yourself
• Learn about the history of Shodoshima or Mediterranean recipes, and incorporate a "simple but rich lifestyle" that makes the most of nature's gifts into your daily routine

A Radiant Glow to Fill Your Days With Fulfillment

March 15 is a day when your senses become more attuned, helping you find beauty and calm in everyday moments. Just as olive trees bear rich fruit after enduring strong sunlight, your efforts are also beginning to bear wonderful results. A flexible, resilient spirit is the key to turning any situation into something positive. May today be a day filled with refreshing discoveries and mark the start of a "fresh and peaceful" year ahead!