February 22 is “National Ninja Day”. The Japanese holiday isn’t an official day off. That is, at least not for those unable to slip out of work.
Why 2/22? It’s a word play, because in Japanese the number two is “ni”. You know, kind of like the “ni” in “ninja” (忍者), but with “nin” or 忍 referring to endurance, patience or restraint.
Picture: ぴの
Or better yet, it’s reminiscent of anime character Ninja Hattori Kun‘s “nin nin” (ニンニン) catchphrase.
Picture: 塾長記 「ある時は忍者」
The cities of Iga and Koka have been spearheading the holiday — and for good reason. Iga in Mie Prefecture is historically a ninja stronghold as is Koka in Shiga Prefecture. Obviously, this is a push to promote the region.
Picture: Walker47_jp
In anticipation for the holiday, some “Ninja Day” banners have been spotted.
Picture: ninja_tools
Picture: kyotodr
Picture: douguyatoraneko
In Koka’s city hall, the local bureaucrats have dressed up in full ninja garb as they answer phones, work on the computer, make origami throwing stars, and meet with citizens — shinobi style.
Picture: KunoichiSen
Picture: doi_yobi
They should always wear these outfits, long after February is over.
Picture: 710Sakurai
Picture: doi_yobi
Imagine going to city hall and being greeted by this guy.
Pictures: tauhu1002
Since February 2, ninja events have been going on across Japan to publicize the day. The holiday is new and still not widely known, even in Japan. But national press coverage is changing that.
Picture: shrn_9
Just don’t let this holiday sneak up on you.
Picture: ぴの
Comments
5 responses to “‘Ninja Day’ Is An Actual Holiday In Japan”
This is an amazing mixture of strangeness, hilarity and downright goofiness. I love it.
this make my day , Love it
Iga has been doing this forever. It’s a damn fun weekend. Everyone in the city dresses like a ninja and they have a festival.
We need Ninja Day in Australia.
Basically they doing a may the 4th play on words. Cute.
You filthy weeaboo trash!