The Emperor's Birthday is observed in Japan on February 23, marking the birthday of the reigning emperor, Naruhito. This public holiday has its origins in the Meiji Restoration, with various dates celebrated throughout history, including November 3, August 31, and April 29, before settling on the current date following Naruhito's ascension in 2019. The celebration is marked by a public ceremony at the Imperial Palace, where the gates are opened to the public, allowing hundreds of people to gather, wave Japanese flags, and extend their best wishes to the emperor and the imperial family from the palace balcony. The first official celebration of Emperor Naruhito's birthday took place in 2020, following his birth on February 23, 1960. This event highlights the significance of the emperor in Japanese culture and tradition.