"Ninja Day" Is an Actual Holiday in Japan
Brian Ashcraft
Today 6:40am
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.
[Photo: ぴの]
Or better yet, it's reminiscent of anime character Ninja Hattori Kun's "nin nin" (ニンニン) catchphrase.3
[Photo: 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, and Japan has lots of these kind of days. This one, however, is the best.
[Photo: Walker47_jp]
In anticipation for the holiday, some "Ninja Day" banners have been spotted.4
[Photo: ninja_tools]
[Photo: kyotodr]
[Photo: 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.
[Photo: KunoichiSen]
[Photo: doi_yobi]
They should always wear these outfits, long after February is over.
Reply With Quote