On November 25, 2011, Americans will gather with their families to celebrate Thanksgiving--whether they want to or not. Turkey will usually be served, except for those adventurous enough to try cooking the intimidating and frustrating Turducken. The usual stories will be told, generally for the 3,725th time as Uncle Bob once again succeeds in embarassing Little Timmy (now 35 years old) by telling everyone about the time he ended up naked in the neighbor's swimming pool.
In Japan, things go a little differently. There actually is a holiday very similar to the American Thanksgiving, known as Kinro Kansha no Hi (勤労感謝の日), or "Labor Thanksgiving Day". Taking place on November 23 every year, it was originally a harvest festival known as "Niinamesai" that dates back to the 7th century. After World War II, in 1948, the focus of the holiday shifted to acknowledge and celebrate fundamental human rights.
If you happen to be in Japan on this day, check out your local area for special events being held by nearby temples and shrines. There are plenty of cultural experiences to be had--all without a turkey in sight.
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