Labor Thanksgiving Day

[2] The law establishing the holiday cites it as an occasion to respect labor, to celebrate production, and for citizens to give each other thanks.

[6] During the occupation of Japan after World War II, the United States-led authorities sought to abolish Japanese national holidays rooted in the State Shinto mythology, including Niiname-sai.

[11] May 1 is also celebrated as Labor Day by many trade unions in Japan,[12] which hold large rallies and marches in Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya.

[citation needed] On this day, school children prepare cards or gifts to distribute to police officers, firefighters, hospital staffs, personnel of the Japan Self-Defense Force and the Japan Coast Guard and other people in the labor sector to show appreciation for their contributions to the country.

[14] The traditional Niiname-sai festival is still held privately by the Imperial House of Japan on Labor Thanksgiving Day.