Elephant Day (Zo-san Day)
OtherWhat Is Zo-san Day?
November 16th is "Zo-san Day" (Elephant Day) in Japan. It was established by "Ehon to Monogatari no Aru Machi" (A Town of Picture Books and Stories), a citizens' project in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, that runs community activities such as a picture book contest. The date comes from the project's founding day (November 16th, 2010) and the birthday of poet Michio Mado (November 16th, 1909), a native of Shunan known for writing the lyrics of the children's song "Zo-san" (Little Elephant).
The Zoo's Elephant and the Song "Zo-san"
Shunan City is home to the Tokuyama Zoo, which opened in 1960 (Showa 35). The aim of this day is to create an anniversary for the elephant, a symbol of the zoo, and use it as a chance to strengthen bonds among parents and children, families and the local community.
- Established by: "Ehon to Monogatari no Aru Machi," a citizens' project in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture
- Origin of the date (1): the project was founded on November 16th, 2010
- Origin of the date (2): Shunan-born poet Michio Mado was born on November 16th, 1909
- Related place: Tokuyama Zoo, opened in 1960, where the elephant is a symbol of the zoo
- Purpose: to deepen bonds among parents and children, families and the community
What Michio Mado Left Behind
Michio Mado was a poet who created many children's songs and poems besides "Zo-san." The song, which begins "Zo-san, zo-san, your nose is so long," is one that people of all generations can sing along to. Through this day, his hometown of Shunan also expresses its respect for Mado.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Hum the song "Zo-san," or sing it together with children
- Pick up a collection of Michio Mado's poems or a picture book
- Plan a trip to a nearby zoo to see the elephants
- Talk with family or neighbors about the songs and picture books you loved as a child
One Children's Song Connects Generations and Communities
A children's song that everyone knows has the power to bring generations together. November 16th is a day, born in Michio Mado's hometown, to enjoy singing "Zo-san" with family and the people around you.