Welcome!

Enter a player name to begin or load your saved progress.

Labor Thanksgiving Day Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge

Study Hints Create Teach
Global Score: 0
Trophies: 0 🏆

‹ Back

Score: 0 / 100

Study Guide: Japan's Labor Thanksgiving Day: History and Observance

Cheat Sheet:
Japan's Labor Thanksgiving Day: History and Observance Study Guide

Labor Thanksgiving Day: Modern Context

The Japanese holiday observed annually on November 23rd is officially designated as Kinrō Kansha no Hi, which is commonly understood to mean 'Work Appreciation Day'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The official translation of Kinrō Kansha no Hi (勤労感謝の日) is 'Labor Thanksgiving Day,' emphasizing its broader purpose of appreciating labor and production, rather than solely 'Work Appreciation Day'.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day is a public holiday observed exclusively in China.

Answer: False

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is a public holiday observed in Japan, not China.

Return to Game

The primary legal purpose of Labor Thanksgiving Day is to honor the Emperor and the Imperial family.

Answer: False

Explanation: The establishing law for Labor Thanksgiving Day designates its purpose as respecting labor, celebrating production, and fostering mutual gratitude among citizens, not primarily honoring the Emperor.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day is celebrated annually on the first Sunday of December.

Answer: False

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed annually on November 23rd.

Return to Game

If November 23rd falls on a Saturday, Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed on the following Monday.

Answer: False

Explanation: The rule for observing Labor Thanksgiving Day if November 23rd falls on a Sunday is to move it to the following Monday. The provided information does not specify a shift for Saturdays.

Return to Game

The law establishing Labor Thanksgiving Day emphasizes mutual gratitude among citizens.

Answer: True

Explanation: The legislation establishing Labor Thanksgiving Day explicitly promotes mutual gratitude among citizens as a key objective.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day is a biennial event.

Answer: False

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is an annual observance.

Return to Game

The Japanese script for the holiday's official name is 新嘗祭.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Japanese script for the holiday's official name, Labor Thanksgiving Day, is 勤労感謝の日 (Kinrō Kansha no Hi). 新嘗祭 (Niiname-sai) refers to the ancient harvest festival.

Return to Game

The phrase 'Kinrō Kansha no Hi' literally means 'Gratitude for Work Day'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The phrase 'Kinrō Kansha no Hi' translates more accurately to 'Labor Thanksgiving Day,' encompassing both labor and gratitude.

Return to Game

The Emperor's Birthday is the same holiday as Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Emperor's Birthday is a distinct public holiday in Japan, separate from Labor Thanksgiving Day, which has its own historical origins and purpose.

Return to Game

The 'See also' section in the article provides information on traditional Japanese cuisine.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'See also' section typically links to related articles; in this context, it directs readers to information about the Japanese calendar, not cuisine.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day encourages individuals to engage in strenuous physical activity.

Answer: False

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is generally observed as a day for relaxation and personal reflection, not for strenuous physical activity.

Return to Game

The phrase 'giving one another thanks' implies a one-way flow of gratitude from citizens to workers.

Answer: False

Explanation: The phrase 'giving one another thanks' emphasizes a reciprocal exchange of gratitude, signifying mutual appreciation within society.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed weekly.

Answer: False

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed annually on November 23rd.

Return to Game

The 'External links' section provides official government decrees related to the holiday.

Answer: False

Explanation: The 'External links' section typically provides links to related websites for further information, not official government decrees.

Return to Game

Being a 'public holiday' means Labor Thanksgiving Day is primarily a day for religious observance.

Answer: False

Explanation: While rooted in ancient traditions, Labor Thanksgiving Day is a secular public holiday focused on labor, production, and mutual gratitude, not primarily religious observance.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day connects Japan's past and present by honoring ancient harvest traditions alongside modern labor values.

Answer: True

Explanation: The holiday serves as a bridge between Japan's historical agricultural heritage and its contemporary focus on labor and industrial productivity.

Return to Game

The official Japanese name 勤労感謝の日 means 'New Year Thanksgiving'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The official Japanese name 勤労感謝の日 (Kinrō Kansha no Hi) translates to 'Labor Thanksgiving Day,' not 'New Year Thanksgiving'.

Return to Game

The phrase 'celebrating production' refers to honoring the Emperor's role in agriculture.

Answer: False

Explanation: The phrase 'celebrating production' in the context of Labor Thanksgiving Day refers to acknowledging the output and achievements of labor and industry, rather than the Emperor's agricultural role.

Return to Game

The 'reference' section provides citations to verify the article's information.

Answer: True

Explanation: The 'reference' section serves to provide citations, enabling readers to verify the information presented in the article and consult the original sources.

Return to Game

What is the official Japanese name for the holiday celebrated on November 23rd?

Answer: Kinrō Kansha no Hi

Explanation: The official Japanese name for the holiday celebrated on November 23rd is Kinrō Kansha no Hi (勤労感謝の日).

Return to Game

Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of Labor Thanksgiving Day according to its establishing law?

Answer: To respect labor, celebrate production, and allow citizens to give thanks to each other.

Explanation: The establishing legislation for Labor Thanksgiving Day explicitly outlines its purpose as an occasion to respect labor, celebrate production, and foster mutual gratitude among citizens.

Return to Game

On what date is Labor Thanksgiving Day observed annually in Japan?

Answer: November 23rd

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed annually on November 23rd in Japan.

Return to Game

What happens if November 23rd falls on a Sunday?

Answer: It is observed on the following Monday.

Explanation: If November 23rd falls on a Sunday, Labor Thanksgiving Day is observed on the subsequent Monday.

Return to Game

How does the holiday encourage mutual appreciation among citizens?

Answer: By providing a platform for expressing thanks, like children thanking workers.

Explanation: The holiday fosters mutual appreciation by creating opportunities for expressing gratitude, such as children thanking workers for their contributions.

Return to Game

Which of the following is NOT a stated purpose of Labor Thanksgiving Day according to its establishing law?

Answer: To commemorate historical battles

Explanation: The establishing law for Labor Thanksgiving Day specifies respecting labor, celebrating production, and mutual thanks as its purposes; commemorating historical battles is not among them.

Return to Game

What does the phrase 'celebrating production' signify in the context of the holiday?

Answer: Acknowledging the output and achievements resulting from labor and industry.

Explanation: 'Celebrating production' signifies the holiday's modern role in recognizing the value of goods and services generated through labor and industrial efforts.

Return to Game

Niiname-sai: Ancient Harvest Festival

The ancient festival known as Niiname-sai is considered the precursor to modern Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Answer: True

Explanation: Labor Thanksgiving Day is recognized as the modern designation for the ancient harvest festival known as Niiname-sai.

Return to Game

The Niiname-sai festival traditionally celebrated the harvest of grains and fruits.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Niiname-sai festival traditionally celebrated the harvest of the Five Cereals, representing agricultural bounty.

Return to Game

During Niiname-sai, the Emperor traditionally offered the harvest to the kami and tasted the new rice.

Answer: True

Explanation: A central ritual of Niiname-sai involved the Emperor dedicating the year's harvest to the kami and partaking in the newly harvested rice.

Return to Game

The Imperial House of Japan has ceased all traditional Niiname-sai observances.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Imperial House of Japan continues to observe the traditional Niiname-sai festival privately.

Return to Game

The Niiname-sai ritual is considered a minor annual event for the Emperor of Japan.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Niiname-sai ritual is regarded as one of the most significant annual rituals for the Emperor of Japan.

Return to Game

Emperor Hirohito fully participated in the Niiname-sai rites until his final years, regardless of age.

Answer: False

Explanation: Emperor Hirohito ceased full participation at age 70, and Emperor Akihito gradually reduced his involvement due to the demanding physical nature of the rites.

Return to Game

The Japanese term Niiname-sai (新嘗祭) translates to 'New Year Festival'.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Japanese term Niiname-sai (新嘗祭) translates to 'New Harvest Festival' or 'Festival of the First Fruits'.

Return to Game

The 'Five Cereals' were central to the Niiname-sai festival's celebration of agricultural bounty.

Answer: True

Explanation: The harvest and celebration of the 'Five Cereals' constituted a central element of the Niiname-sai festival, underscoring its agricultural significance.

Return to Game

Niiname-no-Matsuri is unrelated to the modern Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Answer: False

Explanation: Niiname-no-Matsuri, also known as Niiname-sai, is directly related as the ancient precursor to the modern Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Return to Game

The Daijosai is a modern secular event unrelated to Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Answer: False

Explanation: The Daijosai is mentioned in relation to Labor Thanksgiving Day, suggesting a connection to ancient imperial rituals that inform the holiday's background.

Return to Game

What ancient festival is recognized as the precursor to Labor Thanksgiving Day?

Answer: Niiname-sai

Explanation: The ancient harvest festival known as Niiname-sai is recognized as the precursor to the modern Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Return to Game

What was traditionally celebrated during the Niiname-sai festival?

Answer: The harvest of the Five Cereals

Explanation: The Niiname-sai festival traditionally celebrated the agricultural bounty, specifically the harvest of the Five Cereals.

Return to Game

What was the Emperor's traditional role during the Niiname-sai ceremony?

Answer: To taste the newly harvested rice and dedicate it to the kami.

Explanation: Traditionally, the Emperor's role in Niiname-sai involved offering the harvest to the kami and partaking in the first taste of the new rice.

Return to Game

Which statement accurately describes the Imperial House's observance of Niiname-sai?

Answer: They continue to observe it privately.

Explanation: The Imperial House of Japan maintains the private observance of the traditional Niiname-sai festival.

Return to Game

Why did Emperor Hirohito and Emperor Akihito reduce their participation in the Niiname-sai ritual?

Answer: Due to the demanding physical requirements of the rites.

Explanation: The reduction in participation by Emperors Hirohito and Akihito was attributed to the physically demanding nature of the Niiname-sai rites.

Return to Game

Historical Development and Calendar Transition

According to the Nihon Shoki, harvest rituals were first documented during the reign of Emperor Jimmu.

Answer: True

Explanation: The classical chronicle Nihon Shoki documents harvest rituals occurring during the reign of the legendary Emperor Jimmu.

Return to Game

Formalized harvest celebrations in Japan were first documented during the Heian period.

Answer: False

Explanation: While formalized harvest celebrations existed, the Nihon Shoki documents harvest rituals dating back to the reign of Emperor Jimmu, predating the Heian period.

Return to Game

Modern scholars trace the basic forms of Niiname-sai to the era of Emperor Tenmu.

Answer: True

Explanation: Scholarly analysis indicates that the foundational structures of the Niiname-sai festival can be traced to the reign of Emperor Tenmu.

Return to Game

Before adopting the Gregorian calendar, Niiname-sai was celebrated on the first day of the 11th lunar month.

Answer: False

Explanation: Prior to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, Niiname-sai was observed on the second Day of the Rabbit in the 11th month of the lunar calendar.

Return to Game

November 23rd became the fixed date for the Niiname-sai festival after Japan adopted the lunar calendar.

Answer: False

Explanation: November 23rd became the fixed date for the Niiname-sai festival in 1873 upon Japan's adoption of the Gregorian calendar, not the lunar calendar.

Return to Game

The adoption of the Gregorian calendar caused the Niiname-sai festival date to become variable.

Answer: False

Explanation: The adoption of the Gregorian calendar in 1873 fixed the date of the Niiname-sai festival to November 23rd, rather than making it variable.

Return to Game

Emperor Tenmu's reign is significant because it marked the end of the Niiname-sai festival.

Answer: False

Explanation: Emperor Tenmu's reign is significant as the period when modern scholars trace the basic forms of the Niiname-sai festival, not its end.

Return to Game

According to the Nihon Shoki, when were harvest rituals first mentioned in Japanese history?

Answer: During the reign of the legendary Emperor Jimmu

Explanation: The Nihon Shoki, a classical chronicle, documents the earliest mentions of harvest rituals occurring during the reign of Emperor Jimmu.

Return to Game

Modern scholars trace the basic forms of the Niiname-sai festival to the reign of which Emperor?

Answer: Emperor Tenmu

Explanation: Scholarly consensus identifies Emperor Tenmu's reign as the period during which the fundamental structures of the Niiname-sai festival were established.

Return to Game

Before Japan adopted the Gregorian calendar, how was the date for Niiname-sai determined?

Answer: It was based on the second Day of the Rabbit in the 11th lunar month.

Explanation: Prior to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar, the date for Niiname-sai was determined by the lunar calendar, specifically the second Day of the Rabbit in the 11th lunar month.

Return to Game

When did Japan officially adopt November 23rd as the fixed date for the Niiname-sai festival?

Answer: 1873, upon adoption of the Gregorian calendar

Explanation: The date of Niiname-sai was officially fixed to November 23rd in 1873, coinciding with Japan's transition to the Gregorian calendar.

Return to Game

Post-War Transformation and Secularization

The date of Niiname-sai was fixed to November 23rd in 1948.

Answer: False

Explanation: The date of Niiname-sai was fixed to November 23rd in 1873 upon Japan's adoption of the Gregorian calendar. The renaming to Labor Thanksgiving Day occurred in 1948.

Return to Game

The transformation of Niiname-sai into Labor Thanksgiving Day was driven by a desire to promote State Shinto mythology.

Answer: False

Explanation: The transformation and renaming of Niiname-sai into Labor Thanksgiving Day post-World War II was part of an effort by occupation authorities to secularize holidays and move away from State Shinto.

Return to Game

Labor Thanksgiving Day was officially renamed in 1948.

Answer: True

Explanation: The holiday was officially renamed Labor Thanksgiving Day in the year 1948.

Return to Game

The shift from Niiname-sai to Labor Thanksgiving Day occurred during the Meiji Restoration.

Answer: False

Explanation: The transformation and renaming of Niiname-sai to Labor Thanksgiving Day occurred after World War II, not during the Meiji Restoration.

Return to Game

The abolition of holidays like Niiname-sai after WWII aimed to strengthen State Shinto practices.

Answer: False

Explanation: The abolition and secularization of holidays like Niiname-sai after World War II were intended to diminish the influence of State Shinto, not strengthen it.

Return to Game

The modern Labor Thanksgiving Day focuses primarily on agricultural rituals, similar to Niiname-sai.

Answer: False

Explanation: While Niiname-sai was primarily an agricultural festival, the modern Labor Thanksgiving Day has a broader focus on labor, production, and mutual gratitude.

Return to Game

What historical context led to the renaming of Niiname-sai to Labor Thanksgiving Day?

Answer: A post-World War II effort by US-led authorities to secularize holidays.

Explanation: Following World War II, occupation authorities promoted the secularization of holidays, leading to the renaming of Niiname-sai to Labor Thanksgiving Day.

Return to Game

In what year was the holiday officially renamed Labor Thanksgiving Day?

Answer: 1948

Explanation: The official renaming of the holiday to Labor Thanksgiving Day occurred in the year 1948.

Return to Game

How does the modern Labor Thanksgiving Day differ in focus from the ancient Niiname-sai?

Answer: It has a broader focus on labor, production, and mutual gratitude.

Explanation: While Niiname-sai was centered on agricultural harvest rituals, the modern Labor Thanksgiving Day encompasses a wider scope, emphasizing labor, production, and societal gratitude.

Return to Game