Karaoke Culture Day

What Is Karaoke Culture Day?

October 17th is "Karaoke Culture Day" in Japan. It was established by the All-Japan Karaoke Industrialist Association, a national body of businesses that sell and lease karaoke equipment. The date comes from the founding of the association on October 17, 1994. Based on the view that "karaoke is the greatest entertainment culture Japan has produced," the day aims to spread the appeal and culture of karaoke even further.

Karaoke: Entertainment Made in Japan

Karaoke is a Japanese form of entertainment now understood around the world simply as "karaoke." The association promotes it through support for cultural activities and exchanges.

• Established by:All-Japan Karaoke Industrialist Association
• Date origin:the association's founding date, October 17, 1994
• Meaning of the word:"kara" means "empty" and "oke" is short for "orchestra"
• Recent activities:holds a "Karaoke Culture Day Festival" around the day

Spotlight on Singing and Health

During the pandemic, daytime karaoke, known as "hiru-kara," was hit hard. To support it, the association holds events around the day and has collected stories on the theme of karaoke and health, sharing the benefits and joy of singing. Singing out loud is enjoyed by all generations as a way to refresh and relieve stress.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Sing your heart out at karaoke after work
• Share the origin of the word -- "empty orchestra" -- as a conversation starter
• Swap go-to karaoke songs with your coworkers
• Find songs that family and friends of all ages can enjoy together

Sing, and Your Heart Feels Lighter

The refreshing feeling after finishing a song is part of karaoke's charm. On October 17th, give thanks for this Japanese entertainment culture and hum a favorite tune.