The authors explore the holiday as a historical phenomenon, and its evolution, the formation of social functions and attributes - as an integral part of the national culture of Japan. The origin, concept and content of the festive action, its development along several important lines - agricultural rituals, deification of nature, cult of ancestors, holidays and the state are considered. Particular attention is paid to the problem of the holiday as a factor in the socialization of society at different stages of its development. A description of the most popular and widespread traditional holidays is given.