Classics Day

What Is Classics Day?

November 1st is "Classics Day" in Japan, commemorating a passage in the Diary of Lady Murasaki dated November 1, 1008, which confirms the existence of "The Tale of Genji." The observance began with the "Tale of Genji Millennium" celebrations and was formalized into law in 2012.

A Millennium-Old Passage Reveals the Birth of a Story

Classics Day aims to raise public interest in Japan's classical literature and traditional culture.

• Origin: a passage in the Diary of Lady Murasaki confirms that "The Tale of Genji" already existed by November 1, 1008
• Legal recognition: the "Act on Classics Day" took effect in 2012, formally establishing it as an official observance
• Purpose: to pass the appeal of "The Tale of Genji" and Japan's broader classical literature and traditional culture on to future generations

Sparked by the "Tale of Genji Millennium"

In 2008, events across Japan celebrated the "Tale of Genji Millennium," marking a thousand years since the earliest confirmed reference to the story. This growing momentum helped lead to the establishment of Classics Day.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Read a passage from "The Tale of Genji" or another piece of Japanese classical literature
• Try an accessible version, like a modern translation or manga adaptation
• Look up exhibitions or events related to classical literature
• Explore other classical works, like the Hyakunin Isshu or The Pillow Book

A Thousand Years Later, the Story Is Still Being Told

The tale Murasaki Shikibu wove together continues to captivate people even a thousand years later. November 1st is a day to rediscover the depth of Japan's classical literature.