Celebrate International Women’s Day in Japan through captivating events

On March 8, we honor women dedicated to confronting current social norms and working to make the world a better place for women. To commemorate this significant day, numerous events are held worldwide.

What is International Women’s Day?

The United Nations established the day in 1975 to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. A wide range of festivities, from talk events and workshops to charity marathons and marches, allows people to engage with the day and advocate for gender equality. Each year features a theme; for 2024, it is “Inspire Inclusion.” The slogan encourages recognizing the value of women’s participation as a crucial step toward building a better world.

Movements related to International Women’s Day in Japan

The history dates back to the 1920s when Japanese women, influenced by significant global movements, advanced their pursuit of women’s rights. One of the most notable movements was initiated by Kikue Yamakawa, a commentator, researcher, and activist on women-related issues. Despite numerous obstacles, she made a public speech advocating for women’s rights in 1923, although it was cut off in 40 minutes due to riots. At that time, women’s political participation was strictly prohibited, leading to arrests in some cases.

Even after International Women’s Day was officially established in 1975, it was not spread enough in Japan. In these few years, many people have resumed building associations and engaging in activities for women’s empowerment.

Event Information in Japan for International Women’s Day 2024

This year, a plethora of engaging in-person and virtual events will be held nationwide to celebrate the day.

A Variety of Events Featured by HAPPY WOMAN

HAPPY WOMAN, pioneering in women’s empowerment, continues to work hard to bridge gender gaps. To make a social impact, they offer a wide range of activities on and around the day.

• • HAPPY WOMAN AWARD 2024 for SDGs

They honor individuals and companies that contribute to women’s empowerment and the promotion of the SDGs, take on challenges and activities aimed at creating a sustainable society.

• • Special Music Stage

Mai Kuraki, popular Japanese singer, performs onstage. She created a theme song, “WE ARE HAPPY WOMEN,” for the organization. She will perform it at this event, expressing her hope for a society where women can live more freely.

• • HAPPY WOMAN FESTA 2024

The theme for the 2024 event: Know Yourself, Love Yourself.
This event offers content related to women’s health, such as talk sessions and workshops on making miso bowls.

They also share content related to this significant day, such as onsite ceremonies, seminars, and music festivals, through their official YouTube channel.

White Ribbon Run

The White Ribbon Run, organized by the Japanese Organization for International Cooperation in Family Planning (JOICFP) in March, honors International Women’s Day. Participants wear matching T-shirts to draw attention to this women-centered event. As a fundraiser, all proceeds are donated to activities protecting women’s lives and health. The 2024 slogan is “Run for Yourself and Someone Else.”

Will Conscious Marunouchi 2024

Will Conscious Marunouchi 2024 hosts two-day events themed around women’s health on March 1 and 2. The events offer a variety of content based on four key words: “Food and Immunity Boosting,” “Adequate Rest and Exercise,” “Self-Care and Balanced Nervous System,” and “Discussion on the Future.” Highlights include talk shows by women’s health experts and healthcare providers, self-care practices, body check-ups, one-on-one counseling, and photo sessions capturing your current self.

International Women’s Day this year is just around the corner. Let’s reconsider women’s rights and work toward a society that better recognizes and values women.