Yamanashi Prefecture Citizens' Day
Historical AnniversariesWhat Is Yamanashi Prefecture Citizens' Day?
November 20 is Yamanashi Prefecture Citizens' Day. According to Yamanashi Prefecture, the day was established for residents to deepen their understanding of and interest in their hometown, nurture their love for it, and look forward to building a richer Yamanashi they can be proud of for the next generation. It was set as November 20 by the Citizens' Day Ordinance (Yamanashi Prefecture Ordinance No. 1) of March 26, 1986.
Why November 20?
The date of Yamanashi Prefecture Citizens' Day comes from the day the name "Yamanashi Prefecture" was born in the Meiji era.
- November 20, Meiji 4: On this day, the former "Kofu Prefecture" was renamed "Yamanashi Prefecture." Citizens' Day was set to commemorate this date.
- A date in the old calendar: Japan's current solar calendar was introduced by making the 3rd day of the 12th month of Meiji 5 into January 1, Meiji 6. In the solar calendar, November 20, Meiji 4 corresponds to December 31, but Citizens' Day was set using the date in the old calendar.
- Commemorative events: Events are held on Citizens' Day, and for fiscal 2026 the prefecture announced events at the Kose and Fujiyoshida venues as well as free admission to facilities and related events.
From the Meiji Restoration to the Birth of Yamanashi Prefecture
The Yamanashi Prefecture website also describes the path from the Meiji Restoration to the birth of the prefecture. In the first year of Meiji (Keio 4), the office of the Kofu castle warden was abolished and a pacification office was set up, and in the 11th month of that year it was replaced by Kai Prefecture. The name and system changed several times before Yamanashi Prefecture was born.
Tips for Marking This Day
- If you are in Yamanashi, take part in Citizens' Day events or enjoy free admission to facilities
- Read about why it was named "Yamanashi Prefecture" on the prefecture's website
- Learn about the history from Kofu Prefecture to Yamanashi Prefecture
- Look up your own prefecture's Citizens' Day and history
A Day to Learn About Your Hometown's History
Yamanashi Prefecture Citizens' Day on November 20 commemorates the day the name Yamanashi Prefecture was born in the Meiji era. Whether or not you live in Yamanashi, why not take a look at how your local area came to be?