Marine Day – Celebrating Japan’s Deep Connection to the Sea

Marine Day – Celebrating Japan’s Deep Connection to the Sea
海の日 –   no Hi

Every year on the third Monday of July, Japan celebrates Marine Day (Umi no Hi), a public holiday that honours the ocean’s importance to the country’s history, culture, and everyday life. In 2025, it falls on Monday, 21 July.

As an island nation with over 6,800 islands, Japan’s relationship with the sea runs deep. From centuries-old fishing traditions and bustling port towns to sea-inspired crafts and cuisine, the ocean has shaped daily life in countless ways. Marine Day is a moment to pause and give thanks for these connections—the fresh seafood that graces the table, the natural beauty of the coast, and the sea routes that have connected Japan to the world.

Across the country, families and friends celebrate by heading to the beach, visiting aquariums, or enjoying festivals held along the waterfront. Some take part in environmental clean-ups, reflecting a growing awareness of the need to care for the marine environment. Lantern festivals and firework displays light up seaside towns, adding a sense of celebration and reflection.

For makers and artists, the sea is also a source of inspiration. Traditional Japanese crafts often reflect marine themes—waves carved into woodblocks, indigo-dyed fabrics evoking deep water, or the gentle curves of a handcrafted ceramic bowl.

At Hands On Workshop, we’re drawn to these quiet connections—between people, place, and nature. Marine Day is a reminder of the beauty and rhythm of everyday life, and how craft can express that spirit.

Umi no Hi is more than a holiday—it’s a pause to honour what sustains and inspires the Japanese people. 

Ceramics by Kata Kata, you can buy them here. 

Blog post image:unsplash.com/@carolineclementine