Fumi no Hi (Letter Writing Day)
OtherWhat Is Fumi no Hi?
The 23rd of every month is "Fumi no Hi," Letter Writing Day in Japan. In 1979 the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications designated the date on the strength of a pun: 2 can be read "fu" and 3 "mi," giving fumi, a letter. The stated aim is to help carry on written culture through the pleasure of writing and receiving letters, and to encourage use of the mail.
From Regional Drive to National Campaign
The day did not begin nationwide; it grew in stages.
- Origin of the date: the pun fu (2) + mi (3) = fumi, a letter
- Designated: 1979, by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, as a national campaign
- Before that: regional letter-writing drives had run on the 23rd since fiscal 1975
- Purpose: to sustain written culture through the joy of sending and receiving letters
July 23 Is "Fumizuki Fumi no Hi"
Because the seventh month of the old lunar calendar was called Fumizuki, July 23 carries a special campaign under that name. It is known for commemorative stamp issues, making it the most prominent of the twelve monthly Fumi no Hi.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Start working through your New Year card addresses
- Write a letter, rather than an email, to someone who helped you this year
- Keep a notecard or postcard ready in your desk drawer
- Reread the letters and cards you received this year
A Letter Day in New Year Card Season
December's Fumi no Hi lands right when New Year cards are on everyone's mind. Handwriting still reads differently on arrival.