Golden Week Blues: Why 22% of People Are Not Fans of Japan’s Most Anticipated Holiday
Public Sentiment Divided on Designation of October 1 as Temporary Public Holiday
The government’s decision to designate Armed Forces Day on October 1 as a temporary public holiday has received mixed reactions from the public.
A recent public opinion poll conducted by PMI Co., Ltd. found that 40% of respondents supported the designation of October 1 as a temporary public holiday, while 22% opposed it. The remaining 38% took a neutral stance.
Respondents who supported the designation cited reasons such as “being able to take a break,” “invigorating the domestic economy,” and “boosting army morale.” On the other hand, those who opposed it mentioned reasons such as ”many holidays,” ”sudden action,” and “disruption of plans.”
The survey also found that 39% of office workers had not received any instructions from their companies regarding the temporary public holiday. 30% planned to take paid leave, while 22% would work as usual. 9% would take unpaid leave.
When asked about their plans for the holiday, 31% of respondents said they would rest only on October 1, while 13% would take 3 days off, including October 1. 11% would take 2 days off, including October 1. 36% had no plans to rest on the special holiday.
Regarding how they planned to spend the holiday, 54% of respondents said they would rest at home. 13% had not decided on a plan yet, while 12% would enjoy their hobby. 10% would work that day, and 7% would go on a trip. 5% would have a gathering with friends or family.
The government has explained that the designation of the temporary public holiday is to honor the dedication of soldiers and to give the public a chance to rest. However, some have expressed concerns about reduced productivity and increased costs due to the sudden designation of public holidays.
The government has expressed the expectation that the designation of temporary public holidays would contribute to reviving the domestic economy and improving people’s leisure. However, the public remains divided on the issue.