Kikanshi (In-House Journal) Day

What Is Kikanshi Day?

October 27th is "Kikanshi no Hi" (In-House Journal Day) in Japan, established by printing company Dai-ichi Shiryo Insatsu Co., Ltd., and certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2016.

Two Meanings Combined Into a Single Date

The anniversary's date combines two separate origins -- one for the month, one for the day.

• The month's origin: "Seiyo Zasshi" ("Western Magazine"), regarded as Japan's first full-fledged magazine, was launched in October 1867 by Western studies scholar Shunsan Yanagawa
• The day's origin: a pun on "tsunagari" (connection), with 27 read as part of the word

What Exactly Is a "Kikanshi"?

A kikanshi is a publication that a company, organization, or association uses to regularly communicate its policies, activities, and philosophy to its members and stakeholders. In-house newsletters and membership bulletins are also considered a form of kikanshi in the broader sense.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Reread the in-house journal or newsletter from an organization you belong to
• Learn about the history of Japanese magazines, including "Seiyo Zasshi"
• Learn about the work behind creating a kikanshi -- editing, design, and printing
• Reflect anew on the "connections" you share with your community or organization

A Small Publication That Sustains the Bonds Between Members

A kikanshi may not stand out the way a flashy general-interest magazine does, but it plays an important role in connecting people who share the same organization or philosophy. Let October 27th be a chance to pick up a familiar in-house journal or newsletter and feel the sense of connection woven into its pages.