Embracing the Hawaiian spirit on Aloha Day

Today, and January 31st annually, is Aloha Day (アロハの日). It is a cheerful anniversary created to share the Hawaiian spirit of warmth, kindness, and open‑hearted connection. The date comes from a playful number reading: 1 can be read as a, 3 as lo, and 1 again as ha, forming “aloha.”

The day encourages people to embody the values associated with the word — compassion, harmony, and goodwill — and to bring a bit of tropical brightness into mid‑winter Japan. It’s also a nod to the long cultural friendship between Hawaii and Japan, where the concept of aloha resonates strongly with ideas of hospitality and gentle interpersonal care.

You can find many Hawaiian style restaurants and diners in Japan. Pictured, one of the larger chains, called "Kona's Coffee". They do some really delicious pancakes! You will find several branches reviewed on City-cost.